Ryzo Studios Connects with Youth in New York City

Youth Media Foundation (YMF) is proud to be a fiscal sponsor of Ryzo Studios. Ryzo develops multimedia content across film, gaming, and live experiences, transforming emotion into measurable youth activation. Founded by Pixar veterans, Ryzo is fueled by audiences and what stories mean to them. Every Ryzo franchise is developed in active partnership with world-class researchers; the research shapes the story, the game mechanics, and the activation model.

In late April, 2026, YMF hosted Erica Milsom, former Pixar director, for Un-Tilted - a live, multi-part experience created by Ryzo Studios. It is built around the story of Aaron, a young aspiring game designer navigating feelings that are big, messy, and not easy to deal with. The film, Release The Beast, gets the conversation started. The game, Rage Fighters, lets players step into Aaron's inner battles. And a sticky note art activity runs through the whole thing.

Milsom met with two groups of students in New York City. They watched the short film, played the game, and participated in the art activity - all while sharing their emotions, what lies underneath, and the skills they use to channel them. For kids, it's an adventure. For parents, it's a window.

"The students were able to get really honest about what they lacked: a space to find connection around big emotions when they need it," said Milson. "It was a reminder of the power of storytelling and of giving our audience space to bring that story home. No matter our background, we can often find connection through simple things (anger, joy, gaming, a sticky note)."