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'Just go for it' - Suffolk filmmaker's message after BFI nomination

Katie Bennett, who studies at One Sixth Form College in Ipswich, encourages fellow young filmmakers to pursue their ideas after her animation earned a prestigious national award nomination.

Katie Bennett is excited ahead of her visit to the BFO for the MediaMag Production Competition Awards
One Sixth Form College
Katie Bennett is excited ahead of her visit to the BFO for the MediaMag Production Competition Awards

Why it matters: The 18-year-old student from Great Glemham is one of just five finalists in the animation category at the annual MediaMag Production Competition awards, beating entries from 46 other schools and colleges across the country.

What they're saying: "I was very surprised and excited to be shortlisted. I made a film for my course and thought I may as well enter it," she said. "It took hours and hours to create. If I was to win, I would be really happy. I really want to work in film in the future so the nomination and possibility of winning is a big confidence booster."

Lloyd Evans, head of art and design at One Sixth Form College, said: "Katie is incredibly talented and we are so proud of her efforts."

Katie Bennett picks up a film award at the One creative arts festival
One Sixth Form College
Katie Bennett picks up a film award at the One creative arts festival

What's next: Katie will travel to the British Film Institute in London on Friday to discover if her A-level project 'Paperweight' has won the top prize, before heading to the University of East Anglia to study film later this year.

She hopes to one day work for the BBC and cites Pixar and Disney films as inspiration.

Her college has already recognised her talent, awarding her best film at the annual One Sixth Form College creative arts awards.

The bottom line: Katie's advice to other aspiring young filmmakers is simple: "If you have an idea - just go for it."

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