Takalam: Youth Summer Filmmaking Camp
Welcome to Takalam: Arab Youth Speak Up!, an innovative initiative by the Arab Film and Media Institute (AFMI). Our Summer Filmmaking Camp is more than just a creative outlet; it’s a vibrant literacy and leadership program specifically designed to elevate the voices of Arab youth in our communities.
Since our launch in Oakland in 2018, Takalam has fostered a supportive environment where storytelling takes center stage. We believe that every young person has a unique cultural narrative worth sharing, and our camp provides the tools and training necessary for them to express themselves authentically and powerfully.
Takalam: Youth Summer Filmmaking Camp
Welcome to Takalam: Arab Youth Speak Up!, an innovative initiative by the Arab Film and Media Institute (AFMI). Our Summer Filmmaking Camp is more than just a creative outlet; it’s a vibrant literacy and leadership program specifically designed to elevate the voices of Arab youth in our communities.
Since our launch in Oakland in 2018, Takalam has fostered a supportive environment where storytelling takes center stage. We believe that every young person has a unique cultural narrative worth sharing, and our camp provides the tools and training necessary for them to express themselves authentically and powerfully.
In partnership with the Oakland Unified School District’s APISA Program and KDOL Youth Beat, KDOL Youth Beat.
Community partners include the Arab Resource and Organizing Center and American Association of Yemeni Students & Professionals.
TAKALAM 2026 will take place during summer 2026
Applications are not yet open.
Sign up for our newsletter to be notified when the details of the 2026 program are announced.
TAKALAM 2026 will take place during summer 2026
Applications are not yet open.
Sign up for our newsletter to be notified when the details of the 2026 program are announced.
Cultivate Your Creativity
Participants at the Takalam camp engage in a dynamic curriculum that melds theory with practical application. Through a rich blend of lectures, hands-on exercises, and interactive workshops, campers explore the fundamentals of filmmaking. They learn about the intricacies of the production process, from brainstorming and scriptwriting to shooting and editing, empowering them to transform their ideas into compelling screenplays.
Inspiration Through Engagement
Each day is filled with enlightening discussions featuring guest speakers from diverse backgrounds in the film industry. These industry professionals serve not only as instructors but as role models who inspire our campers to reach for their dreams and believe in the power of their stories. Whether it’s a celebrated filmmaker, a passionate journalist, or an accomplished artist, our guests bring invaluable insights that ignite creativity and curiosity.
Empowerment and Growth
Participants at the Takalam camp engage in a dynamic curriculum that melds theory with practical application. Through a rich blend of lectures, hands-on exercises, and interactive workshops, campers explore the fundamentals of filmmaking. They learn about the intricacies of the production process, from brainstorming and scriptwriting to shooting and editing, empowering them to transform their ideas into compelling screenplays.
Empowerment and Growth
Participants at the Takalam camp engage in a dynamic curriculum that melds theory with practical application. Through a rich blend of lectures, hands-on exercises, and interactive workshops, campers explore the fundamentals of filmmaking. They learn about the intricacies of the production process, from brainstorming and scriptwriting to shooting and editing, empowering them to transform their ideas into compelling screenplays.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience:
If you’re an Arab youth eager to explore your potential and tell your story, we invite you to join us at Takalam: Arab Youth Speak Up! Our Summer Filmmaking Camp is an unforgettable experience that will not only fuel your passion for film but also connect you with a community of like-minded individuals who celebrate their heritage and creativity together.
Ready to embark on this incredible journey? Sign up today and take the first step towards becoming a confident storyteller and filmmaker! Together, let’s uplift our voices and share our stories with the world.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience:
If you’re an Arab youth eager to explore your potential and tell your story, we invite you to join us at Takalam: Arab Youth Speak Up! Our Summer Filmmaking Camp is an unforgettable experience that will not only fuel your passion for film but also connect you with a community of like-minded individuals who celebrate their heritage and creativity together.
Ready to embark on this incredible journey? Sign up today and take the first step towards becoming a confident storyteller and filmmaker! Together, let’s uplift our voices and share our stories with the world.
Funded in part by
