The Twenty20 Pictures Project secured external funding again from Screen Scotland and our Council to run a nine-month film project for teenagers in North Lanarkshire from September 2025 to May 2026 at Summerlee museum's Photomedia Facility in Coatbridge.
Future Fridays pupils and any teenager in North Lanarkshire can attend on Friday or Saturday afternoons.
Participants will:
- learn to make short films
- receive teaching from film professionals
- participate in film festivals and seminars
- undertake evening trips to the Glasgow Film Theatre cinema
What was done
The project was created by local film maker and animator Wilma Smith, who directed the team to the Screen Scotland funding. The funding covers all transport and project costs so young people can join and participate for free. The project aims to give young people structured creative opportunities and improve their digital confidence.
- Design and deliver a film project for teenagers aged 14 to 18.
- Improve mental wellbeing and increase digital access for participants.
Feedback was gathered from participants and parents, as trips and activities require coordination and regular communication on a range of film related experiences for the young people.
Outcome
Emotional wellbeing
Young people reported clear benefits to their confidence, friendships and overall wellbeing through participation.
- Participants made new friends and were keen to create their own short films on diverse topics that mattered to them in their preferred style.
- Parents reported positive experiences with one parent stating her daughter "had the best night ever" and the group helped her grow in confidence.
- Young people felt motivated to work on their own creative projects, including filming on their phones and experimenting with new ideas.
- A strong group bond developed with natural teamwork as filmmaking gave participants a shared interest, and new members were welcomed in a supportive way.
- Sessions were lively, with regular attendance, good interactions and a friendly atmosphere contributing to improved wellbeing.
Digital engagement
Participants also developed practical digital skills that supports safe and confident media use.
- Participants learned to use film editing software.
- Participants learned to operate film cameras and download footage.
- Participants practised safe and productive usage of social media.
