International Media Camp for Youth
August 24–29, Sigulda, Latvia
Free participation / creative contest / 50 funded spots
Young Media Sharks is an international media camp for young people aged 14 to 20 who are passionate about documentary filmmaking, directing, journalism, television and digital content production, as well as the creative use of artificial intelligence tools. The camp offers a unique opportunity to learn from distinguished Latvian and international media professionals, produce hands-on video projects, and develop storytelling, presentation, and communication skills.
The 2026 camp will take place in Sigulda, Latvia, from August 24–29. This year’s program will focus on documentary filmmaking and content marketing. Participants will gain valuable knowledge and practical experience from leading Latvian media professionals and influential content creators from around the world.
For the past 10 years, Young Media Sharks has been organized by the youth NGO Avantis. Thanks to the generous support of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Riga and our project partners, participation is completely free of charge. All you need to do is submit your application and complete the creative assignment.
Don’t wait until the last minute — applications close on August 10!
Young Media Sharks welcomes applications from young people aged 14 to 20 who see their future in filmmaking, journalism, cultural management, or digital content creation.
Over the past decade, more than 400 young people have graduated from the camp. Many of our alumni now work in Latvian media, creative agencies, technology companies, and the film industry, or study at leading universities in Latvia and abroad. Former participants include TV3 journalist Linda Pūle, Radio 5 editor Toms Putniņš, Latvian Public Television journalist Dāvids Freidenfelds, Latvian Public Media project manager Jēkabs Jostsons, award-winning film director Emīls Alps, as well as well-known content creators Nansija Garkalne, Edgar Fresh, and many others. After the camp, participants have the opportunity to become involved in Avantis projects and develop their own ideas at the Young Media House youth media center.
We also encourage applicants to invite friends who are interested in filmmaking, writing, photography, video production, event management, or creative storytelling. We especially encourage young people who doubt their own abilities to apply—experience has shown that some of the greatest talents are often the ones who underestimate themselves.
As the camp is conducted primarily in English, participants should have sufficient English skills to actively participate in discussions and activities.
International and local media professionals from various fields will share their experience and provide participants with a hands-on introduction to the world of media — including journalism, audio and video production, photography, and other related creative skills.
To develop these skills, participants will work in teams and create a creative project under the guidance of experienced mentors. Each day will include inspiring lectures, practical workshops, and group assignments, giving participants the opportunity to gain new skills, expand their knowledge, and develop competencies that will support their future studies and careers.
Applications opening soon — stay tuned for the announcement!
The camp will take place from August 24–29 in Latvia.
Dzintars Dreibergs is a Latvian film director and producer. His most notable works include the critically acclaimed feature films Blizzard of Souls and Escape Net: The Birth of TTT Legends. Dzintars is a recipient of several Latvian film awards and international recognitions.
Nellija Ločmele is a journalist and the Editor-in-Chief of the magazine IR, a position she has held since its establishment in 2010. Previously, she worked as a political reporter and media manager. Her professional interests include investigative journalism, media independence, and covering issues of public importance.
Menefese Kudumu-Clavell is a filmmaker and the founder and director of Ineffable Films. He works on developing emerging filmmakers through educational programs and supports diverse stories and perspectives in cinema. His work focus on storytelling, creativity, and improving access to media-making opportunities for young creators.
Don Edkins is a South African documentary filmmaker, producer, and the founder of STEPS. He has created internationally recognised documentary projects, including Generation Africa, AfriDocs, Steps for the Future, Why Democracy?, and Why Poverty?. His work focuses on human stories, social change, and the power of documentary film to create dialogue and understanding.
Audrius Stonys is a Lithuanian documentary filmmaker, producer, and educator. He is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and one of the most influential figures in Baltic documentary cinema. His film Neregių žemė (Earth of the Blind) received the European Film Award for Best European Documentary. Audrius shares his experience in documentary storytelling and exploring human experiences through film.
Kārlis Dagilis is a journalist, media researcher, and educator with more than 20 years of experience in the media industry. He has served as Editor-In-Chief at Latvian Radio News desk, contributed to the creation of Latvijas Radio 5 – Pieci.lv, and has worked on promoting media literacy and high-quality journalism.
Kristaps Cīrulis is a creative strategist, entrepreneur, and brand development expert. He works with innovation, sustainable business models, and communication strategies, helping organisations build meaningful brands and products. Kristaps is also a co-founder of several technology and sustainability initiatives.
Antti Hirvonen is a media development and innovation expert at Finland’s public service broadcaster YLE. He was one of the developers of the YLE Kioski digital platform, working on new journalism formats and content aimed at engaging younger audiences. Antti focuses on the future of media, digital storytelling, and audience engagement.
Boris Frumin is a Riga-born film director, screenwriter, and educator. He has directed several internationally recognised films, including Errors of Youth, which was selected for the UN Certain Regard program at the Cannes Film Festival. Boris has extensive experience in film education and shares his knowledge of directing, screenwriting, and cinematic storytelling.
Ilona Bičevska is a film and event producer, youth media project developer, and founder of the NGO Avantis. She has created projects such as Young Media Sharks, Young Media House, and other youth development initiatives, while also contributing to internationally recognised film projects. Her work focuses on developing creative ideas, producing media projects, and supporting the growth of young talents.
Annija Vīnkalna is a journalist and foreign news editor at TVNET. She focuses on covering international affairs, politics, and socially significant issues. Her daily work includes news production and analysis of current events.
Linda Anna Dāldere is a journalist at TVNET+. She creates analytical and investigative stories on socially significant topics, including international politics and security issues. Linda Anna has also participated in international journalism exchange programs.
The list of mentors will be updated
The application process consists of two parts:
1. Application form
The application form must be completed by August 2 via this link.
2. Creative assignment
The creative assignment will be announced live on TV3 during the program 900 Sekundes on July 23 and published on our website: www.youngmediasharks.eu.
Applicants will have until August 10 (23:59) to complete and submit the creative assignment. In case of equally strong applications, priority will be given to the applicant who submitted their assignment earlier.
Selection process and announcement of results
The jury will evaluate the applications based on the following criteria:
The content of the application form, including the applicant’s motivation;
The quality, creativity, and originality of the submitted creative assignment.
Selected participants will be notified of the results by August 14.
Good luck with your application!
Youth organisation “Avantis”
Producer: Ilona Bičevska
For inquiries, please contact us at: info@avantis.lv
Please include the subject line: Question about the Young Media Sharks camp