WELCOME TO
YOUNG FILMMAKERS ACADEMY
Founders Eric and 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 avenues like The renowned Summer Filmmaking Program, The 8 Week Film School and various Focused Learning courses, our students learn the ins and outs of screenwriting, cinematography, editing, digital effects, set design and more under the guidance of experienced industry professionals.
Studies show that children involved in the arts excel in all other areas of social and educational development. Arts learning can also improve motivation, concentration, confidence, and teamwork.
Young Filmmakers Academy offers a varied curriculum with programs for all levels of interest that are sure to awaken your child’s inner Spielberg.
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LET OUR STUDENTS TELL YOU WHY YOU SHOULD STUDY FILM AT
YOUNG FILMMAKERS ACADEMY?
AND PARENTS LOVE US TOO
YFA is like no other experience in Northeast Ohio. This organization has shaped our daughter Greer and has activated a passion in her for making and directing movies. Her confidence and skill set has grown tremendously over the past 3 years. She has met many wonderful peers that have the same interest, and they are given a safe space to use their gift and talents to create meaningful experiences.
— Michelle Miller, Hudson, 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)!
— Francis Elizabeth, Cleveland, 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
Eric, Hortencia and the entire staff do a great job introducing kids of all ages to all aspects of the film business: writing, acting, make up and effects, editing and post-production marketing etc. A great place to bring your aspiring young film-maker!
— John McKenna, Rocky River