North East students have created a thought-provoking film to raise awareness of stalking.
The short film, produced by students from the University of Sunderland, won this year’s Police Film Awards.
Maya tells the story of a stalking victim and explores the far-reaching impact on her life, friends, and family.
The film is part of a wider initiative supported by the office of the Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner and the Alice Ruggles Trust.
The scheme invites students to create films that raise awareness of complex social issues.
Past topics have included county line drug crime, knife crime, male rape, modern-day slavery, domestic violence, cybercrime, and hate crime.
Alexander Palmer, a Film Production student who co-directed Maya, said: "I hope that this film is able to properly raise awareness on the impact of stalking in a way that feels accessible and honest.
"Not just for those who are directly targeted, but for everyone whose lives are affected by it, because stalking doesn’t just exist in isolation; it ripples outward into families, friendships, and entire communities."
He said: "It’s really nice to have the film recognised.
"As a student filmmaker, you spend a lot of time second-guessing yourself and wondering whether the story will resonate with anyone.
"The fact that this film is being celebrated reassures me that socially conscious storytelling has a place in our world and these important conversations are still being promoted, which is amazing."
All of the films created as part of this project will be used by police and specialists as a tool to support education and training and promote awareness around stalking.
Clive Ruggles, co-founder of the Alice Ruggles Trust, attended the awards event and praised the work of the students.
Mr Ruggles said: "I am so impressed by what the students have produced.
"Each of their videos highlights the issue of stalking from a different perspective.
"I can see the potential of each of them for helping us raise awareness among young people in our school assemblies, for giving victims the confidence to seek help, and for alerting anyone who, in a personal or professional capacity, may come across a stalking victim and be in a position to help them.
"A huge achievement with real, practical value."
The trust was established in memory of Alice Ruggles, who was killed by a stalker.
It works to educate young people about stalking and equip them with the knowledge to respond safely if they encounter it.
Dr Adelle Hulsmeier, associate professor of partnerships and participatory practice at the University of Sunderland, said: "Our wonderful students have made us immensely proud yet again.
"A year of work by our students demonstrates their ability, professionalism and sensitivity towards a difficult topic for all to explore.
"The films that students produce every year are hard-hitting, and we are proud of the partnership with Northumbria Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner's Office, which has such value in and beyond the University."
Susan Dungworth, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, also praised the project.
Ms Dungworth said: "I was so pleased that this year’s students took on the important topic of stalking.
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"By shining a light on what stalking looks like, these films can be used to help people recognise early signs and give victims the confidence to come forward.
"I look forward to seeing these films being put to good use, helping educate students, professionals, and the police."
The screenings took place at the Tom Cowie Lecture Theatre, Prospect Building, St Peter's Campus on February 17.
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