WELCOME TO
YOUNG FILMMAKERS ACADEMY
Founders Eric & Hortencia Swinderman
​Founded in 2017 by award winning film and TV producer Eric Swinderman, Young Filmmakers Academy is like no other program in Northeast Ohio.
Created on the principles of creativity, inclusion, diversity and teamwork, YFA is dedicated to offering a safe, structured environment where aspiring young artists can learn to express themselves, meet like-minded friends, have fun and feel comfortable.
Through previous programs like The renowned Summer Filmmaking Program, The 8 Week Film School and various Focused Learning courses, our students have learned the ins and outs of screenwriting, cinematography, editing, digital effects, set design and more under the guidance of experienced industry professionals.
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Now as we usher in new programs like the Shadow & Shine Collective Program and Reel Impact, programs that provide real world opportunities for aspiring teen filmmakers, the goal to create a positive impact through film, continues.
LET OUR STUDENTS TELL YOU WHY YOU SHOULD STUDY FILM AT
YOUNG FILMMAKERS ACADEMY
AND PARENTS LOVE US TOO!
Young Filmmakers Academy is a wonderful organization that has given my daughters the opportunity to experience the art of film making in a way that only professionals get to experience. They have been able to act, edit and even direct portions of films with professional equipment and mentorship. It is an invaluable experience that has helped shape their future. I’m so grateful this program exists!
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— Sara Nelson, Westlake, OH
My daughter has learned so much about film: history, screenwriting, acting, editing, and production. When we watch film she shares everything she’s learned about how scenes are filmed! Hortencia and Eric are doing so much for our kids by bringing film to them and to the community of Lakewood.
— Karen Nahra, Lakewood, OH
We had a terrific experience with a class my child took at the YFA this fall. They came home after each session bubbling with excitement - how much fun the class was and what they learned (and what surprised them!) about filmmaking. This is an excellent way for kids with all kinds of interests - technology & computers, acting & art - to channel those interests into a really cool final product. I cannot recommend it enough. My kid is already asking when they can go back!
— Gail Davis, Lakewood, OH
My daughter attended YFA’s summer workshop… and it was AMAZING! From the writing to the production and all the edits that come afterwards, she gained a broad understanding of what it takes to make a film that capped-off the end of an exciting summer (for her and us)!
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— Francis Elizabeth, Cleveland, OH