Teens' films tell story of growing up in Bradford

Fifteen young people who used five-minute films to tell their own story of growing up in Bradford have been rewarded for their creativity and talent.

Born In Bradford, a research programme which tracks the livelihoods of more than 60,000 people, announced a new initiative to show the health and wellbeing of Bradford's youth last year.

The My Life My City project hoped to unearth contemporary talent by challenging social media aces aged 11 to 18 to compile a five-minute movie.

Now the 15 prize winners have been invited to spend a day at the University of York where they will get hands-on experience of television production and learn how to create their own show.

Winner Zahra celebrated the diversity of Bradford in their movie and said: "My city is so special because of its diversity, and I wanted people to see how amazing it is when we all come together.

"I believe compassion is the key to understanding and accepting each other, and I hope my film inspires others to stand against racism and see the beauty in everyone, no matter where they come from."

Matt Brannan, head of film and television at the University of York and judge of the competition said: "Each video demonstrated impressive skills in short-form storytelling, which I hope they all continue to build in any future creative work planned."

In March, everyone who entered the competition will also be invited to bring their families to a special Oscar-style celebratory event where the winning 15 films will be shown.

They will also feature on the big screen in Centenary Square as part of the celebration of Bradford's year as UK City of Culture 2025.

Project director Pishdaad Moderassi said: "It's been hugely rewarding working with youngsters and seeing their enthusiasm for telling their own stories of growing up in Bradford in their own way.

"Images and film footage are now firmly embedded in modern youth culture so it's important to see how positive that can be.

"Who knows where we'll be in 50 years' time but, thanks to projects like this one, our grandchildren will find it easier to look back through a lens and see what life was like in 2025.

"Each and every entry deserves credit for their effort and creativity and we hope they'll take some pride in knowing their work is interwoven with the city's celebrations this year."

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