Wexford talent nominated for Ireland’s Top Youth Film Awards

Wexford will be well-represented at the Grand Final of Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards…

The awards ceremony will be taking place in Dublin on April 10th.

Among the standout nominations are Spread Your Wings and Fall by the Wexford Youth Film Project from New Ross, and Our Voices Heard by Mathew Haskins (16–17 age category) from Ballymitty. 

The event will be broadcast live on the Fresh Film Festival YouTube channel, giving viewers across the country the chance to witness the powerful storytelling and creative voices emerging from Wexford’s young filmmaking talent.

New hosts take centre stage. Two of Ireland’s most exciting comedic talents are leading this year’s celebrations: Justine Stafford and Hannah Mamalis. Known for her razor-sharp wit and viral comedy sketches, Justine has made waves in Irish media as a comedian, writer, and content creator with over 100k followers.

Critically acclaimed comedian, writer, and actor Hannah Mamalis brings her sharp wit and surreal humour to the stage. A regular on RTÉ, BBC, and major festivals, she’s known for her unique storytelling and offbeat charm. Leading us through the evening, both on the red carpet and behind the scenes, is the dynamic and multi-talented actor and comedian Faye Shortt. Broadcast live from Omniplex Cinema, Rathmines, Dublin, this year’s event will bring audiences even closer to the action.

Jayne Foley, Artistic Director of Fresh Film, shared her excitement: 

“This year’s festival is buzzing with energy. With a record-breaking number of entries, it’s clear that young filmmakers are thriving. We’re thrilled to be premiering the awards at 8 PM on YouTube, ensuring that young creatives, their families, and film lovers everywhere can join in the celebration like never before”.

Fresh Film, Fresh International Film Festival and Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards are made possible with the generous support, investment and partnership of The Arts Council of Ireland, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, Omniplex Cinema Group, Limerick City and County Council, Coimisiún na Meán, RTÉ, Limerick & Clare Education & Training Board, Screen Producers Ireland, The Radharc Trust, Animation Ireland, Bow Street Academy, IFCO and RTÉ Supporting the Arts.