"Shoot First, Answer Questions Later: Youth as Media Producers"

Typically, the topic of youth is raised in public debate when young people are hurting themselves or others; failing at literacy, learning or life; or damaging or stealing property. And when youth are spoken about, they are usually spoken for by journalists, police officers, psychologists, teachers and parents. Given the opportunity to seize the camera and the mic, to shoot first and to direct the action, youth tell stories and share perspectives not captured by youth experts and authorities.

Attend this event and you could WIN a Canon PowerShot S5 IS camera! Prize is valued at approximately $350. Thanks to the McGill Computer Store for their generous sponsorship.

We also encourage you to attend a complimentary presentation at the National Film Board (NFB) on October 24.

citizen.nfb.ca/we-made-media-new-generation-citizenshift-event

As the means and methods of communication change, new opportunities arise for meaningful intergenerational dialogue. While much attention is paid to frivolous and hurtful manifestations of youth voice - the goofy antics of YouTubers and the mean-spirited actions of cyberbullies - the powerful, passionate examples of contemporary youth media expression go largely unnoticed in the public sphere.

Intended for the general public, this interactive session brings together academics, community activists, media specialists and young media producers to explore how youth-made and youth-led media can change our perceptions of youth culture and life in a rapidly changing world.

Led by Michael Hoechsmann and Bronwen Low, authors of "Reading Youth Writing: New Literacies, Cultural Studies and Education", the panelists will explore a range of youth-made and youth-led media productions, including older (film, video and radio) and newer (remix and mash-up) forms. Their goal is to share ideas, challenge conventional assumptions and identify new paths for future discussions in youth and media studies.

Panelists:
Alyssa Kuzmarov, founder and director of Productions Oracle

Janice Dayle, journalist and arts professional

Maureen Marovitch, filmmaker and co-owner of Picture This Productions

Giuliana Cucinelli, leader of mProject and Concordia Faculty Lecturer

Moderated by Michael Hoechsmann and Bronwen Low, McGill Education professors and researchers of youth cultural production.