A nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering foster and system-impacted youth will showcase two compelling short films that challenge traditional narratives and amplify marginalized voices. Better Youth will host its Reel To Real Global Screening & Fundraiser Event on May 20, 2025, featuring documentaries that explore complex themes of identity, resilience, and social transformation.
The evening will highlight two significant works: "Supershero: The Journey of Johna Rivers" and "Born Again," which offer intimate portrayals of personal growth and societal challenges. The documentary "Supershero" follows Johna Rivers, a Watts native and former foster youth, documenting her evolution into a community advocate for girls of color. The narrative short "Born Again" explores familial reconciliation through the lens of a transgender woman's relationship with her religiously conservative sibling.
Founded by Syd Stewart, Better Youth serves over 300 youth annually, providing no-cost training in creative fields such as filmmaking, animation, and project management. The organization's approach focuses on transforming lives through mentorship, technical skills development, and holistic support, addressing systemic barriers faced by young creatives from challenging backgrounds.
These film presentations represent more than artistic expression; they are powerful tools for social change. By platforming stories from individuals who have experienced systemic challenges, Better Youth demonstrates how personal narratives can challenge stereotypes, inspire hope, and create pathways for professional success in creative industries.
The upcoming screening represents a critical opportunity to recognize the potential of youth who have traditionally been marginalized. By providing resources, training, and platforms for storytelling, Better Youth aims to break generational cycles and cultivate a new generation of creative leaders who can reshape media representation and professional landscapes.
