Conversations about AI tend to default to the expertise of established technologists, policy experts, highly visible CEOs, investors, and social scientists. All of these perspectives are critical.
But what about the perspectives of people who are getting through school, applying for a first job, or figuring out what skills to build when no long-term career path seems safe, stable, or resilient to disruption?
These are the lived experiences of young people, ages 18-24, who are not only the first generation of true AI natives but also will be living in the consequences of today’s decisions the longest.
The AI sector needs to do a better job of hearing them.
That’s our vision driving [DEFINE]: Our AI Futures, a storytelling project and documentary capturing how young people (ages 18-24) across the United States are thinking about, experiencing, and shaping the future of artificial intelligence.
What is DEFINE?
DEFINE is a documentary, an archive, and a series of short-form stories. It’s a work of art telling the stories of young people who are:
- Coming of age alongside AI tools that have suddenly become available to them
- Learning in environments where answers to questions are immediately available
- Entering the workforce at a moment when traditional career paths feel unstable
- Forming their sense of identity in dialogue with machines that can mirror, extend, or challenge their thinking
- Watching carefully the decisions of the generations who are paving the way for them
- Looking for environments where they can voice their perspectives honestly and authentically
DEFINE is supported by a $300,000 grant from the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation and developed in partnership with the All Tomorrows Institute.
What we’re creating
- A short documentary, [DEFINE]: Our AI Futures, which will bring a curated selection of voices to life through personal storytelling and visual narrative. The film will premiere at a screening event in December 2026, followed by broader digital distribution.
- A dynamic, publicly accessible digital archive designed not only as a creative showcase, but as a resource for educators, policymakers, and industry leaders seeking to better understand emerging perspectives on AI.
How to participate
If you’re 18–24 and based in the United States, you can contribute directly by sharing your perspectives about the following:
- AI and the environment. You are asking a question the industry hasn’t answered yet: is AI worth the cost to the planet?
- AI and the future of work. You have a unique set of challenges that no generation before has experienced as you enter the workforce and inherit an economy reshaped by AI.
- AI and human connection. AI already influences your most intimate relationships. You’re asking what it would look like if AI was built for genuine connection.
Submission formats can include videos, art, or other creative content. More detail is available on the [DEFINE]: Our AI Futures website. The submission form is available here. Please be mindful of the following deadlines:
- May 29, 2026: For consideration to be included in the documentary.
- September 7, 2026: For consideration to be included in the archive.
The top submission in each of the 3 categories will receive a $500 prize. Those featured in the documentary will also receive a $500 honorarium, along with a travel stipend to attend the documentary premiere in December 2026.
Most importantly, your perspective will help shape the future of how AI gets governed.
If you are interested in being a part of DEFINE, and you’re not in the 18-24 age range, here’s how to get involved:
- Share this blog post your social media accounts, your communities, and in 1:1 conversations with people who would be interested.
- Make a contribution of at least $25 to receive a credit in the documentary and an invitation to a VIP event at the documentary premiere in December 2026. Donate here.
Questions?
We look forward to hearing from you. Please contact info@defineourAIfutures.com with any questions.