Wave Makers Talent Day 2025
Wednesday 26th March 16:00-21:00
The Wedgewood Rooms, 147b Albert Rd, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO4 0JW
Sponsored by Millstream Productions
Discover the next wave of South West Film Talent at The Wave Makers Talent Day!
Join us for an inspiring evening of networking, film screenings, and industry insights at the Wave Makers Talent Day—a celebration of emerging talent in film and media. Whether you’re a filmmaker, creative professional, or simply passionate about storytelling, this event is your chance to connect, learn, and be inspired.
Programme:
16:00-17:30 | FILM NETWORK – Discover funding and development opportunities for your next project.
Join us for an inspiring Networking Session designed to connect early-career filmmakers, producers, and creative entrepreneurs. This is a chance to meet like-minded creatives, share ideas, and discover opportunities to support and develop your work.
New for 2025, we’re welcoming Business Builder Consultant Alison Norrington, founder of StoryCentral, who will introduce Creative England’s Business Builder Grant. Offering up to £2,500, this grant helps filmmakers and creative businesses grow sustainable projects. Alison, an experienced mentor, will share insights on what makes a strong application and how funding can help take your career to the next level.
Whether you’re looking for collaborators, industry insights, or funding advice, this session is an invaluable opportunity to expand your network and explore new possibilities.
17:45-18:45 | Filmmaker Q&A – Hear from industry insiders as they share their experiences and insights.
Join us for an exclusive Filmmaker Q&A session with director and screenwriter Dan Pringle hosted by Dr. Stuart Joy (southampton Solent University). Known for his compelling storytelling and unique cinematic vision, Dan has made significant contributions to the film industry as an emerging talent.
His latest feature film, “Die Before You Die“ (2024), is a gripping thriller that follows a hot-headed influencer who finds himself trapped six feet underground after an internet challenge goes dramatically wrong. The film has received positive reviews from The Guardian and The Times, and was awarded the Jury Prize and Best Director at the Manchester Film Festival.
During this session, Dan will share insights into his creative process, discuss the challenges and triumphs of independent filmmaking, and offer valuable advice to aspiring filmmakers. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with a visionary director whose work continues to inspire and captivate audiences.
19:00-20:30 | Future BAFTA Winners Short Film Competition – Witness the next generation of filmmaking talent in action.
This competition showcases the next generation of filmmaking talent, inviting emerging directors, writers, and producers from Portsmouth, Winchester, and Southampton Solent Universities to compete for the coveted Making Waves Short Film Competition award – the Fish Tale.
A panel of industry judges carefully shortlists six outstanding films, which will be screened on the big screen. On the night, the judges will select the Best Film Award, while the audience gets the chance to have their say, voting for their favourite to win the Audience Choice Award.
With future BAFTA winners in the making, this is your chance to see tomorrow’s stars today!
