Young people in Darlington and County Durham are being encouraged to get behind the camera this summer as part of a national filmmaking competition inviting them to create a message for their future selves.
The 2026 PQA Summer Film Challenge, titled Dear Future Self, is open to anyone aged 18 and under.
The challenge asks entrants to create a short film capturing what they would like their future selves, 10 years from now, to remember, reflect on, or carry forward from today.
Nick Pilton, head of film and television at the Pauline Quirke Academy (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."
The entry must feature the young filmmaker either on screen or through voiceover narration, ensuring the film is a personal reflection.
Entrants can focus on a favourite hobby, a special memory, or anything that brings them joy.
Two winners will be chosen—one under 12 and one 12 or over—each receiving a £150 voucher of their choice.
Four runners-up will each receive a £20 cinema voucher.
Winning and runner-up films will be screened at the PQA Film Festival 2026 in London on November 15 and Sheffield on November 29.
Filmmakers will receive their prizes and awards during the events.
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PQA, which welcomes children aged 4 to 18, offers performing arts training that extends beyond singing and dancing to include comedy, story writing, TV and filmmaking.
Entries must be submitted by midnight on Monday, August 31.
Full competition guidelines and entry details are available through the PQA website.
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