What will you do?
In September, you'll watch a selection of documentaries from the new IDFA program together with other young film enthusiasts. You'll discuss the films, share your opinions, and help decide which documentaries receive the official IDFA Young Adults Label.

How does it work?

• IDFA makes a pre-selection of approximately 20 documentaries
• You watch at least 6 films at home (you can always watch more)
• You share your opinion via an online form
• Afterwards, you discuss together with the committee which films work best for young adults
• Finally, you collectively select 8 to 10 films for the Young Adults Label during IDFA 2026

Special screening evening
Additionally, we're organizing a special screening evening with a discussion afterwards. During this evening, we'll show one of your favorite films and you'll have the chance to develop a complete supporting program together — think of a performance, an in-depth discussion, a guest speaker, or something completely unexpected.

A small programming budget is available for this, so there's plenty of room to make it a special evening. This evening is perfect for members who want to do a bit more than just watch films: an opportunity to actively participate, collaborate, and program your own unique film evening. In previous editions, some selection committee members actively participated in planning this evening, while others focused mainly on viewing and selecting the films.

Why participate?

• You get a unique behind-the-scenes look at an international film festival
• You meet other curious and creative young people
• You actively contribute to discussions about culture, media, and societal topics
• Your voice determines which films become part of the Young Adults program

For whom?
For everyone aged 15 to 27 with an interest in documentaries, storytelling, art, current affairs, or film.

Sign up
Register before August 5, 2026 via this registration form.

Location: Amsterdam / online
Selection period: September 2026
Festival: November 2026}

IDFA Youth Selection Schedule

• August 24 | 7:00–8:30 PM – Kick-off (online)
• August 26 through September 22 – Watch and evaluate films
• September 22 – Selection meeting at the Meervaart or at IDFA

After September 22, part of the group will start organizing the closing evening. Please plan for additional working hours during this period.

• November 18 or 19 – Closing evening at Cinema de Vlugt
  Keep this evening completely free; exact times will follow later.

Your opinion can help determine which documentaries young visitors will see during IDFA 2026.