Born out of T. Rickard Productions, The Film Exchange is a movement built for the hungry. It started in Southeast Alabama with one belief: talent exists everywhere, opportunity does not. So we put pro-level cameras, real client projects, and industry mentorship directly into the hands of high school creators aim to launch a career from their passion.
This is not charity and it is not a class. It is a launchpad for the bold. A pipeline designed in Alabama for the future of media and the kids rewriting its rules.
01
Discover Rural Talent
The journey begins with a region-wide short film competition open to public high school students across Southeast Alabama. Submissions are judged solely on creativity; no fancy equipment required. Whether it’s filmed on a webcam or a phone, we’re just looking for original thinkers with bold ideas.
02
Develop Cohort of Storytellers
We identify standout high school creators through a statewide competition. Winners are awarded a full filmmaker starter kit: MacBook, DSLR camera, pro software, microphone, tripod, cash prize, and expert-led training to turn passion into paid work.
ARIEL B | 2024 COHORT
03
Equip for Entrepreneurship
Beyond gear and technical skills, students dive into a focused entrepreneurship intensive and take on their first paid client project. They learn how to scope, shoot, edit, invoice, and deliver, leaving with a real portfolio piece that launches their creative career, not just a class assignment.
2024 AWARDS CEREMONY | DOTHAN, AL
04
Scale Creativity for All
The Film Exchange is built to grow. By 2030, we aim to reach 80% of Alabama’s student population, ensuring young creators statewide get access to pro tools, mentorship, and real career pathways. From there, we take the model to strategic rural zip codes around the world, proving that world-class creative talent is not defined by geography.
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