WAKE COUNTY, N.C. – The North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) and 100 Strong Productions will host the Second Annual Student Film Festival on Saturday, April 25, at The Cary Theater. This year’s festival will feature eight student-produced films, a filmmaking workshop, a keynote speaker, and an awards ceremony, celebrating the creative work of student filmmakers from across North Carolina counties.
Deborah Holt Noel, host of PBS NC’s “North Carolina Weekend” and executive producer of “Black Issues Forum,” will deliver the festival’s keynote presentation, tentatively titled “Inspiring Future Generations of County Leaders & Storytellers.” Attendees can also participate in a filmmaking workshop titled “Making Your First Short Film,” led by Blake Kinsey, filmmaker and founder of Back Porch Films. The workshop will offer hands-on instruction and guidance for aspiring filmmakers.
“We are thrilled to bring these two incredible voices to our festival,” said Brielle Barozzini, production coordinator for NCACC 100 Strong Productions. “Deborah’s insight into leadership and storytelling, paired with Blake’s hands-on filmmaking expertise, will give student filmmakers both inspiration and tools to take their storytelling to the next level. It’s going to be an educational and fun day highlighting the amazing work coming from students across North Carolina counties.”
Student filmmakers from counties across the state will be recognized in multiple award categories, including Audience Choice, Uplifting Counties, Local Impact, and more. Bios for the guest speakers and film festival judges are available at 100strongproductions.com/student-film-festival.
The festival will be a celebration of student creativity, leadership and resilience through storytelling. NCACC and 100 Strong Productions invite the public, students, families, and educators to join the free event and celebrate the next generation of North Carolina storytellers.
Registration is open and required to attend; sign up at thecarytheater.com/event/ncaccs-100-strong-productions-student-film-festival-2026/the-cary/cary.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
- Location: The Cary Theater, Cary, North Carolina (Wake County)
- Activities: Student film screenings, keynote presentation, filmmaking workshop, awards ceremony
For more information and updates, visit 100 Strong Productions Student Film Festival.
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