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Tell Your Story Through Film: Apply for DocuMentorMe 2026

DMM 2026

Have a story that matters to your community, your culture, or your personal journey? This fall, CreaTV San José is opening the door for emerging storytellers through DocuMentorMe, a 15-week documentary filmmaking training program designed to help underrepresented voices bring real-life stories to the screen.

Whether you’ve never touched a camera before or you’ve always dreamed of making a documentary, this program offers hands-on support, mentorship, and professional resources to help you create your own short film.

What Is DocuMentorMe?

DocuMentorMe (DMM) is an in-person documentary media training program where selected participants will learn the fundamentals of documentary storytelling and production while developing a 5–7 minute documentary on their chosen topic.

Participants will receive:

  • Professional training in documentary filmmaking
  • Mentorship from experienced media creators
  • Access to equipment and production resources
  • Guidance in narrative storytelling and technical skills
  • A collaborative learning experience with a creative cohort
  • A $1,600 stipend to help offset travel and time costs

No prior filmmaking or media experience is required.

Program Schedule

The program runs on Saturdays from August 29 through December 5, with sessions held from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM in person in San José.

The experience will conclude with a public screening celebration on:

  • December 12
  • 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Who Should Apply?

DocuMentorMe is especially focused on uplifting voices that are often underrepresented in mainstream media. Priority will be given to applicants who:

  • Live in San José
  • Identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC)
  • Come from low-income backgrounds
  • Belong to systemically excluded communities

If you have a story with personal, cultural, or community importance, this program is built for you.

Information Sessions

Interested applicants can learn more by attending one of two remote information sessions:

  • May 27 | 6:00–7:00 PM
  • June 10 | 6:00–7:00 PM

These sessions are a great opportunity to ask questions, learn about the application process, and hear more about what the program offers. Register for the Information Sessions.

Application Deadline

Applications are due:

  • June 22 at 5:00 PM

If you’ve been waiting for an opportunity to tell meaningful stories through film, this could be your moment to begin. Submit your Application.