Students Win National Award for Mental Wellness Film Project

Students from West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology’s (WMCAT) Video Production 2 class earned national recognition as Silver Winners in the 45th Annual Telly Awards for their behind-the-scenes video on a youth mental wellness exhibit. The student-led project was developed by the Mosaic Film Experience.

The Telly Awards honor excellence in video and television across all screens. With more than 13,000 entries submitted annually from across the globe, the awards recognize outstanding storytelling in formats ranging from social media and branded content to documentary and television.

The short film documents the making of “Weathering Emotions,” an interactive exhibit at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum designed to help children and families “weather life’s storms” by exploring emotional health through the lens of weather. The exhibit was created in memory of Kimberly Mutch Bergner by Vonnie Woodrick, founder of the nonprofit i understand, in collaboration with a team of local artists and advocates.  

“I learned that it is easier to work together to make creative ideas rather than alone. My favorite part of the project was getting to collaborate with such a meaningful message,” said Olivia Varney, a recent graduate of City High Middle School. “The message behind the exhibit we created this project for is beautiful and I am proud to have worked with it.”

The project reflects Mosaic Film Experience’s program focus on equipping students with creative, collaborative, and critical thinking skills necessary for career preparedness while providing real-world experiences that amplify their perspectives and voices.

“This project is a perfect example of how young people, when given the tools and trust, can tell powerful stories that move hearts and shift conversations,” said Derk Baartman, vice president of Mosaic Film Experience. “The students went beyond documenting, crafting a thoughtful narrative about mental health that resonates with audiences of all ages.”

The award-winning video was the result of several weeks of planning, filming, and editing by students who used their skills to share a story with real community impact.

“Partnering with Mosaic Film Experience gives our students a unique opportunity to apply their skills in a real-world setting,” said Mike Saunders, arts and tech program manager and teaching artist, WMCAT. “In addition to learning about video production, this project taught students how to use storytelling as a tool for empathy, communication, and community impact. We’re incredibly proud of their work and grateful for Mosaic’s mentorship and creative leadership.”

This video project was made possible with support from, i understand, Mike Saunders, CARNEVALE, and Meta4mat LLC.