Axel Javier Sulzbacher has won the 2026 Canon Video Grant – Short Film Documentary for his work on the Mexican families who have turned to the “Guerreros Azteca”, a youth militia where children as young as six undergo military-style training to combat cartel violence in Michoacán, Mexico. His film will be shown at Visa pour l’Image photo festival in Perpignan in 2027.

Former policeman Hector Flores (centre), the commander and founder of the paramilitary Aztec Warriors strikes a pose with his recruits. Michoacán, Mexico. © Axel Javier Sulzbacher/Panos Pictures