Waterloo 2050: Make your film in 5 days
Got a film idea but not sure where to start? From 13–17 April, Inner Sydney Voice is running a free, beginner-friendly filmmaking program for young people aged 15–25 in Waterloo.
Across five days (11am–5pm), you’ll learn the basics, story and planning, interviewing, filming and editing, with support from experienced filmmakers and journalists. Whether you’ve got a short doco or music video in mind, or you’re starting from scratch, we’ll help you build skills and make something you’re proud of.
Lunch and snacks are provided. Places are limited, tell us a bit about yourself and what you’d like to make in the application below, and we’ll be in touch.
About the project
Waterloo 2050 is a hands-on filmmaking project for young people with a connection to Waterloo and the surrounding area. With support from mentors and professional filmmakers, you’ll get practical guidance to turn an idea into a short film and see it screened on the big screen.
This project is about telling real Waterloo stories: past, present and future, while building skills in storytelling, filming, interviewing and editing. If you want to include archival footage, you’ll also have the option of drawing from Inner Sydney Voice’s local video archive.
How to apply
Applications are now open. Tell us a bit about who you are, what you want to make, and what support would help you most. Successful applicants will be contacted in late March.
Apply here
Questions?
Email: communications@innersydneyvoice.org.au
Call/text: 0434968335
FAQs
Who can apply?
Young people aged 15–25.
Is it free?
Yes — it’s completely free (thanks to City of Sydney funding).
Do I have to live in Waterloo?
No. You don’t need to live, work or study in Waterloo (or nearby).
You might just want to learn more about the area and its history — that’s totally fine.
Do I need a film idea already?
No. If you’ve got an idea, awesome — we can help you plan it early.
If not, that’s fine too. We’ll help you come up with something during the program.
Do I need experience?
No experience needed — beginners are welcome.
Can I do it with my friend?
Yes. Apply together (or separately) and tell us you want to be in the same group.
Do I have to attend every day?
You’ll get the most out of it if you come for the full program.
But if you can’t make every day, you can still apply, tell us which days you can do.
What are the hours?
11:00am–5:00pm each day.
Lunch and snacks are provided.
Where is it held?
In Waterloo at Inner Sydney Voice (770 Elizabeth Street, Waterloo)
Do I need my own camera or laptop?
No. We can provide equipment and support.
If you have a phone, camera or laptop you like using, please bring it along.
When do I need to apply?
Spaces are limited so apply as soon as possible for the best chance of securing your place.
More info (for parents/carers)
Do under 18s need parent/carer consent?
Yes — if a participant is under 18, we’ll need parent/carer consent before they can take part.
Who is running the program?
The program is run by Inner Sydney Voice and delivered by trained journalists and filmmakers with experience supporting young people.
It’s funded by the City of Sydney.
Who is Inner Sydney Voice?
Inner Sydney Voice (ISV) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to community development, advocacy, and social justice across Inner Sydney.
Overview. ISV is a registered charity and not-for-profit organisation established in 1974. Its mission is to empower residents and community groups to have an equal say in decisions affecting their lives, promoting social justice, inclusion, and community development.
What will participants learn?
Participants will learn practical filmmaking skills like interviewing, filming and editing, and will be supported to make a short piece (or a strong start).
What if someone is shy or doesn’t want to be on camera?
That’s okay. There are lots of roles off-camera (filming, sound, editing, planning/producing). We support participants to choose what suits them.
How do they apply / when will you contact them?
They fill in the short form and we’ll get in touch to confirm their place and next steps.