Young people, students, educators and youth organisations across Portsmouth are being encouraged to take part in a new digital survey exploring the future of film, screen culture and media literacy.
The survey is part of Screen Culture NXT, a partnership between Making Waves Film Festival, Playland and the University of Portsmouth. The project supports UNESCO Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week 2026, which highlights the role everyone plays in helping people understand, question and engage with media and information.
Organisers want to hear how young people watch, share and experience stories today. From streaming and social media to gaming and AI, the survey will explore what screen culture means to a new generation. The findings will help shape the future direction of Portsmouth’s Making Waves Film Festival and future cultural projects across Portsmouth.
Complete the Screen Culture NXT survey
James Edward Marks, Artistic Director of Making Waves Film Festival, said:
“Film and screen culture are changing rapidly. We want to hear directly from young people about the content they watch, the platforms they use and the experiences they value. Their views will help shape the future of Making Waves and ensure the festival remains relevant, accessible and inspiring.”
The survey asks participants how they discover and watch content, the role film plays alongside social media and gaming, and what would encourage them to take part in shared screen experiences outside the home.
Dr Yael Friedman, Principal Lecturer in Film Studies at the University of Portsmouth, said:
“Screen culture plays a huge role in how young people learn, communicate and make sense of the world around them. This survey is an opportunity for them to share their experiences and ideas at a time when film, social media, gaming and AI are reshaping how we engage with stories and information. We want to hear their voices and ensure Portsmouth’s creative future is informed by the next generation.”
Schools, colleges, universities, youth groups and community organisations are being encouraged to share the survey with their students and networks.