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Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action Launches 2026 Youth Nature Video Contest
Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action (SVYCA) announces the launch of its Youth Climate Video Contest, inviting young people ages 12-18 from Santa Clara County to submit short videos highlighting Coyote Valley, Farming and Food Systems, Nature-Based Climate Solutions, and Personal Connections to nature.
Submissions opened on February 7th, 2026 and will close on March 31th, 2026
This contest aims to showcase the next generation of environmental stewardship by encouraging youth to present their ideas through creative storytelling around local climate and natural topics.
By engaging youth voices in conservation, SVYCA works to empower young people to take informed climate action through education, outreach, and community, and this contest provides a visible platform in which students can amplify their voices and share their ideas to inspire more initiatives within their own communities, while fostering the environmental leaders of tomorrow.
The Youth Nature Video Contest is made possible through the generous support of the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority (Open Space Authority), the contest’s main sponsor.
Eligibility:
- Ages: 12-18
- Residents or students in region/school districts: Santa Clara County School Districts
Video Requirements:
- Length: 2-5 minutes
- Format: MP4
- Themes: Spotlight on Coyote Valley, Farming and Food Systems, Nature-Based Climate Solutions, Personal Connections to Nature
Submission Process:
- Upload videos at: https://svycanbs-contest.com/
- Deadline: March 31st, 2026 11:59 PM PST
- Additional materials required: All necessary forms are on the application.
Judging and Awards
Entries will be reviewed by a panel of judges composed of local leaders and climate professionals.
Submission will be assessed on a 100-point scale. Videos will be evaluated based on the following rubric: Originality and Creativity (20 points), Clear Communication (20 points), Understanding and Analysis (40 points), and Art and Design (20 points).
Awards include:
- $100-$500 per winner
- Certificate of Achievement for all participating students
- Open Space Authority swag bag
Quotes
“We are incredibly thrilled here at SVYCA to offer this opportunity for youth climate action and community involvement,” said Rosalía Bacon-Flores, Co-Lead of the Nature Based Solutions Team. “This video competition provides a platform for the voices of the leaders of a fast approaching tomorrow who are committed to maintaining a safe, livable future.”
“It’s exciting to see Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action launch this nature-themed video contest,” said Jackie McBride, Community Investment Specialist for the Open Space Authority. “By giving young people a creative platform to share their priorities, they’re helping cultivate the next generation of environmental changemakers. We’re grateful for their partnership and proud to support efforts that uplift youth voices and highlight the essential role of nature in building a resilient future.”
Ceremony Information:
- Winners will be announced on April 22nd, 2026
- Winning videos will be displayed at a screening event in Mid-May where contestants, parents, friends, environmental groups, City Council members, and others can watch the winning videos, network, and discuss climate action.
Learn More
- For full contest guidelines and updates, visit Nature-Based Solutions Youth Video Contest
About SVYCA
Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action (SVYCA), is a grassroots youth-led nonprofit that empowers youth leaders to effectively combat climate change through education, advocacy, and policy initiatives. With over 100,000 students engaged, 15 action teams across the Bay Area, and more than a hundred state and local policies passed, our members have built strong working relationships with local officials and community partners as leaders and advocates for our futures. Over the years our teams and individuals have gained awards and recognitions for their climate and community impact.
Media Contact:
Erin Zimmerman, PhD
Communications Consultant
Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action
