Posted 2 October 2025
A night where the big screen belonged to the stories that really matter
Last week, as the lights dimmed at BFI Southbank, the screen came alive with our latest slate of Media Trust Films productions, made possible with the support of The Mercers’ Company’s Young People & Education Programme.
In front of a packed audience, we screened nine powerful short films, created for remarkable charities and brought to life by the dedication and creativity of volunteer filmmakers and crew. Each film spotlighted the incredible work of frontline charities across London supporting children and young people facing disadvantage, delivering lasting impact in their communities.
Screening night is one of the highlights of my working year. There’s something incredibly moving about watching the charities and filmmakers see their work light up the big screen at a venue like the BFI, it’s not just a screening, it’s a moment of real recognition and celebration.
Michaela Lowe, Executive Producer, Media Trust Films
These films celebrated the hopes, resilience, and everyday triumphs of children and young people, as well as the charities that champion them. From the guiding support of youth mentorship programmes to the confidence-boosting magic of children’s theatre, each film brought to life the passion and impact at the heart of these inspiring organisations.
The premiere also thanked the volunteer directors and crews whose skill, generosity and hard work made the films possible. They gave up countless hours, called in favours and went the extra mile to make sure children and young people’s voices were heard.
After the screenings, the audience heard directly from charities and volunteer directors about what it was like behind the scenes. They talked about the “invisible extras” you don’t see on screen – the co-creation, the creative opportunities, the leadership development, and the involvement of beneficiaries every step of the way.
We truly value our partnership with Media Trust. The opportunity for some of our charities to share their impactful work within their communities, told in their voices through creative and dynamic storytelling is both powerful and transformative, not only for the viewer but for the charities themselves.
Almaz Zainal, Grants Programme Manager (YP&E), The Mercers Company
If you ever needed evidence of the immense power of creativity and collaboration look no further than this year’s collection of brilliantly crafted charity films
Celia Taylor, Head of Media Trust Films
A huge thank you to everyone involved – from development and post-production to marketing, events, and every moment in between. Your creativity, generosity, and dedication made this premiere, and all nine films, not just possible but truly impactful.
To learn more about Media Trust Films and how we support charities in telling their stories, visit our webpage.
Learn more about Media Trust FilmsWe’re excited to announce “INIclusion Day”, a new partnership between Initiative UK and Media Trust that will see over 250 staff from Initiative using their creative and strategic skills to support charities focused on disability....
Posted 17 October 2025
In an age of rolling headlines, shrinking newsrooms, and growing public distrust, the relationship between charities and journalists is arguably more vital, and more strained, than ever. That was the central theme of discussion at...
Posted 4 September 2025
