Ahead of this year’s Walthamstow International Film Festival, co-founder Liza Fletcher introduces the event while three young ‘emerging talents’ explain how they got into the industry

Walthamstow International Film Festival is taking place once again at the end of June. Since the beginning, when we launched in 2010, we have enjoyed bringing films from around the world – and films from around the corner – to audiences in Walthamstow.

If you would like to submit your short film (under five minutes) for consideration this year, you can do so via Film Freeway before the deadline of Saturday, 24th May. We accept animation, documentary, drama and experimental films for family-friendly audiences, with no excessive violence or sexual content.

Foreign language films are welcome but must have English subtitles.

Walthamstow International Film Festival is powered by volunteers and young talent and offers an entry-level platform to young creatives in the borough. Our young advisors for 2025 are in place to tell us the barriers they face in breaking into the creative industries and help us form relevant creative projects.

All hailing from Waltham Forest, these young people are aged from 18 to 25 years and help us plan events, programmes and engagement that other young people need.

Below, Lauren Smith, Monday Adjetey and Ryan Simpson explain their background and their involvement in this year’s film festival.

Lauren Smith

After finishing my A-Levels at Holy Family Catholic School in Walthamstow in 2018, I went on to do an apprenticeship and gained a qualification in broadcast operations. I now work as a multi-skilled technical operator at the BBC.

Creating content or ideas that people can watch and feel is fascinating because everyone interprets film differently. Nothing beats telling stories that started on a scrap of paper and sharing them with the world.

My experience in the industry has had its highs and lows. I’ve had amazing opportunities and have been able to work on some incredible jobs – but it wasn’t easy getting to this point.

Working on the film festival, doing freelance work and apprenticeships have aided me in getting to where I am today and building my confidence to face the scary but wonderful place the industry can be. Being rejected doesn’t mean you aren’t good enough; getting into the industry is tough but never impossible.

I’ve learned that it’s important to keep in touch with everyone you meet because you never know what others may have to offer you in the future.

Everyone can be creative but it’s about going beyond that and gaining as many experiences as possible, even if it’s personal projects with your mates! It shows determination and one day when you’re doing interviews someone will see that enthusiasm you show and give you that chance you need to grow and achieve.

Monday Adjetey

I’m a German-born, Ghanaian-Dutch man who grew up in London. I am an artist at heart, with a background in video production as a camera operator, editor and creative content producer.

Curious by nature, I find joy in documenting the layered possibilities of how and why things happen, through the emotive mediums of film and music.

With my unique background, learning to understand and communicate with others in a way that allows them to feel comfortable is important to me.

Film can traverse the various borders and barriers between people and I’ve found film, art, music and sport are my ways to communicate and understand the world around me. What I’ve learned from being on set is that I enjoy working towards a shared objective that is greater than myself.

My interest in filmmaking has taken me to many different places; from shooting Sunday league games in local parks, all the way to capturing Arsenal match days at Emirates Stadium.

I’ve also shot live music festivals and filmed in Manchester, Liverpool, France, Spain, Switzerland, and in Africa.

What I’d say to others who want to break into the film industry is to ask questions, build a supportive network around you, and find your most comfortable way to share ideas – while documenting everything along the way!

Ryan Simpson

I’ve been fortunate enough to break into the film and TV industries since graduating in 2018. 

From my experience, the film and television industry is a dynamic and creative space, and while it can be challenging, it’s definitely an attainable goal for aspiring professionals.

I’ve found that success in this field relies on a blend of practical skills, strategic networking, and a flexible approach to career development. For me, building a strong foundation was crucial. 

This involved a combination of education and hands-on experience. While formal film and television degrees or vocational qualifications in moving image production are valuable, I also found that early practical experience, through freelance video work and personal projects, allowed me to build a portfolio and refine my essential skills.

I gained my first professional credits with major broadcasters and independent production companies simply by approaching them and showcasing my enthusiasm and abilities.

This experience highlighted the importance of actively pursuing and capitalising on available opportunities. Volunteering and collaborating with established directors also provided invaluable on-set experience and industry insights.

Relocating to major production hubs, like London, proved beneficial for me. These hubs offer increased exposure and access to a wider range of opportunities. I took on diverse roles, including camera trainee, lighting technician and production assistant, which gave me a comprehensive understanding of the production process.

I’ve learned that career progression within the film and television industry is often dynamic, with roles and opportunities evolving rapidly. Adaptability is key. In essence, breaking into the film and television industry requires more than just talent. It demands a proactive approach, a commitment to continuous learning, and the ability to forge meaningful professional connections.

Submit your short film for consideration at Walthamstow International Film Festival via Film Freeway before 24th May 2025. Go to this website

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