Helping young Londoners tell their stories on film

Knife crime is a crisis. London recorded the highest rate of 169 offences involving a knife per 100,000 population in 2018/19, an increase of 1 offence per 100,000 population from 2017/18. When we were approached by Digital Cinema Media in partnership with the Mayor of London as part of their London Needs you Alive campaign to share an opportunity that could really make a difference, we were without question on board.

The London Needs You Alive campaign aims to alter the narrative surrounding how young people are represented and give value to how they see themselves and their role in the capital. LDN Filmmakers is an initiative to help young Londoners share their stories on the big screen – a free week-long fast-track film course designed to shake up the industry and help young Londoners realise their creative potential regardless of their background.

We worked together to create a website that portrayed the energy, excitement, and talent of the participants to share a more hopeful picture of the opportunities available in London. The digital experience needed to consistently carry through the visual style and emotion of the campaign, and showcase the six films produced during each of the week-long workshops.

The films tell some amazing stories. ‘The silent path’ touches on issues of friendship, morality and selflessness. ‘Submit’ talks about how to balance the pressure to blend in with society norms and maintain a sense of authenticity. There’s nothing young, shy or quiet about the subject matter.

We’re all amazed by the talent shown in the films and are grateful that we were able to take part in this project. It shows what’s possible when there are opportunities for young people to be able to follow their passions and express themselves.