Filmmakers from around the world who focus on social issues may submit their best works to The Media That Matters Film Festival. Deadline: January 9.

The festival highlights short films on the most important topics of the day for local, global, and online communities with the goal of engaging audiences and inspiring them to take action.

Entries must be no longer than 12 minutes. Possible themes include: Media Literacy, Human Rights, Elections & Democracy, Sustainability & the Environment, LGBTQ & Sexual Identity, Youth Activism and Racial Justice.

The festival will select 12 finalists, who will receive US$1,000 each to assist them in future filmmaking efforts.

There is an entry fee of US$25 for general submissions; US$10 for students over 18; and free for youth 18 and under.

For more information, visit http://www.mediathatmattersfest.org/submit/.