A student filmmaker from University of Staffordshire has received a cash boost to share a story ‘close to their heart’ on screen
I never imagined that I would’ve even come close to winning – so this is a really big confidence boost.
Inspired Film and Video are longtime supporters of University of Staffordshire’s BA (Hons) Film Production course and each year students have the chance to compete for a bursary, donated via the University’s Horizon Fund.
Six shortlisted students pitched their ideas to Company Director Ryan Lloyd with Ada Heasman named winner and awarded £250. Ada’s project is a autobiographically-inspired short film about a trans woman coming to terms with her identity, while navigating romantic relationships and drug addiction.
“It’s a really important topic that’s close to my heart, and I’ve been collaborating with as many trans people as possible to foster a sense of community and realism to it,” explained the 21-year-old from Kent.
“Getting this bursary is absolutely surreal – when my name was announced I was in shock – I couldn’t even say anything in response. £250 in a university setting can go a very long way, and for me it’s going to really help to sell my set design, as well as funding festival opportunities to hopefully get it to reach a wide audience once I’m done.”
Ada added: “I never imagined that I would’ve even come close to winning – so this is a really big confidence boost.”
Ryan commented: "There was a fantastic diversity of ideas, talent and vision on display. The work that the students had put into planning their films – from the creative ideas to the sourcing of actors, developing of scripts and styles to the amazing efforts to secure some prestigious filming locations – means I’m sure they will all create great films.
“I chose Ada's project because I felt they had given real consideration to the project as a whole, from the initial concept and themes of the film, to the planning of sets, visual look and soundscape. Right through to how it would speak directly to the intended audience and what film festivals and screenings would be most suitable to submit to on completion. It’s great to see such passion for a project and I hope that the bursary can help Ada to achieve the success they deserve."
Colin Mottram, Course Leader BA (Hons) Film Production, said: “We are extremely grateful that the team at Inspired Film and Video continue to support our students. It’s not just the financial reward but the time they give up listening to the students pitches and the on-going advice they offer about the projects to not only the winner but all the applicants. This competitive pitching process is an essential learning opportunity that simulates a situation that our students will find themselves in as they develop their passion for film production into a successful career.”