A new Welsh film festival network initiative, developed by Film Hub Wales, Wicked Wales and key festivals within the region, with the aim to increase British independent and international film programmes available for and made by young audiences.
To develop an informal network of festivals specialising in, with dedicated programmes for, or with broader festivals wishing to expand their programmes to young audiences.
The first step is to consult with the festival partners, using the existing FHW report on Youth Festival Networks as a base for the feasibility and needs of the network.
Activity in future might include:
– Programming support,
– Shared marketing,
– Fundraising,
– Network meetings,
– A national film award.
A group of young filmmakers and creatives from across Wales have come together to work on an exciting and innovative new project. The members of Ffilm Ifanc lead on the project, researching and selecting the films as well as planning and marketing the screenings.
Perhaps you already offer a programme for young audiences and want to connect to other organisations, or you’re new to working with this age group and looking for some inspiration – find out more below:
Past events:
2019: In January 2019, Film Hub Wales held an interactive training session for film festival organisers working with young audiences, led by Martin Grund and Jamie Cross from Leeds Young Film Festival, as part of Iris On The Move.
This coincided with the announcement of the Wales Youth Festival Network, which aims to bring together Welsh film festivals who work with, or aspire to work with, young audiences.
We looked at innovative ways to reach young audiences, with a focus on ages 16-30, from marketing, to programming, working with volunteers and event management.
2020: The WYFN Network officially launched with a new national ‘Three Films Festival’. The Festival screened up to three films from each of the many established film festivals in Wales and welcomed films from S4C, Hijinx and Into Film. The films screened have all been made by or for young audiences aged approximately 15-25. Read more about the Three Films Festival here.
2021: Ffilm Ifanc launched their Welsh Film on Tour programme at selected venues across Wales, starting at Pontio, Bangor before moving on to Ty Pawb, Wrexham, Cell B in Blaenau Ffestiniog, Yr Egin in Carmarthen, Aberystwyth Arts Centre and ending at the Torch, Milford Haven. The tour offered new opportunities and support for young filmmakers to get their films onto the big screen and in front of new audiences.
Read our Youth Festivals Research to discover the data behind the development of the Wales Youth Festival Network.
