Shine Global’s latest film Virtually Free has won the Jury Award for Impact at the 9th Annual Social Impact Media Awards (SIMA 2021) for innovative videos that share unique insight into “how impact works” and that inspire critical consciousness of current social issues.  Directed by André Robert Lee, the short documentary shows unlikely allies who work together to transform the juvenile justice system and stop mass incarceration in Richmond, VA. In the film, we meet Sid, Taee, and AR, three teens currently being held in a Richmond, VA detention center who are offered the chance to become activists speaking truth to power. Participating in a local arts organizations’ program, Performing Statistics, they are taught by different artists to deliver their powerful, authentic messages to the public, law enforcement, and government officials using their art, including a virtual reality jail cell they’ve helped create.

Shine Global also received a Special Jury Mention in the Production Company category for “companies with a demonstrated track record of producing social impact media.” As a non-profit media company, Shine Global produces inspiring films and compelling content about children and their families. Through tailored distribution and outreach, we connect with our audiences in communities, classrooms, museums, and on capitol hill as part of a powerful engagement campaign to encourage social change.

WATCH THE TRAILER FOR VIRTUALLY FREE (now available for screenings and workshops)

See the full list of winners at https://simaawards.org/2021-winners/