Young movie-makers across Kent are being offered a unique opportunity to send a message through time as part of an exciting new national filmmaking challenge. The initiative, titled Dear Future Self, is hosted by the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA) and invites creative children and teenagers aged 18 and under to produce a short film addressed to who they will be a decade from now.
Entrants are being asked to capture the essence of their lives today - whether that means showcasing a favourite hobby, sharing a cherished memory, or highlighting something simple that brings them everyday joy. Serving as a personal digital time capsule, the competition offers local youth an inspiring stage to express themselves while preserving an unforgettable snapshot of their childhood for the next ten years.
Encouraging Creativity and Reflection
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.”
Competition Details and Prizes
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 November 15 and Sheffield on November 29, where filmmakers will receive their prizes and awards.
Entry Deadline and Additional Information
Entries must be submitted by midnight on Monday, August 31, 2026. Full competition guidelines and entry details are available via PQA PQATV | Dear Future Self... Summer Filmmaking Challenge 2026.
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.
