12:00 AM 12th August 2026
Young People In Leeds Invited To Take Part In National Filmmaking Competition
The competition, ‘Dear Future Self’, asks young people aged 18 and under to create a short film exploring what they would like themselves, ten years from now, to remember about who they are today. Whether it is a favourite hobby, a treasured memory, or something that brings them joy.
Nick Pilton, Head of Film and Television at PQA, said: “Dear Future Self is all about encouraging young people to reflect on who they are and what is important to them. Film is a powerful storytelling tool, and we can’t wait to see the creativity and imagination that participants bring to the challenge.”
“With the summer holidays giving young people more free time, this is a brilliant opportunity to step away from screens, try something creative and use their phones or cameras in a more purposeful way. We hope the challenge gives children and teenagers something fun, meaningful and confidence-building to focus on over the summer.”
The filmmaker should be the subject of the film, featuring either on screen or through voiceover narration.
The competition is open to all young people aged 18 and under across the UK.
Two winners will be selected, one aged under 12, and one aged 12 and over. Each will receive a £150 voucher of their choice, while four runners-up will receive £20 cinema vouchers.
The winning and runner-up films will be screened at the PQA Film Festival 2026, taking place in London on 15 November and Sheffield on 29 November, where filmmakers will receive their prizes and awards.
PQA welcomes children aged 4 to 18, offering high-quality performing arts training combined with essential life and social skills. Performing arts at the Pauline Quirke Academy isn’t just about singing and dancing, students also have the opportunity to explore comedy, story writing, TV and filmmaking.