Young Filmmakers in Donegal to Get Smartphone Training Boost

Young people in Donegal will soon have the opportunity to enhance their filmmaking skills through a new training programme focused on smartphone technology. Póca Productions, in collaboration with Donegal County Council’s PEACEPLUS Partnership, has launched the New Horizons Countywide Programme. This initiative is part of a broader effort under Donegal’s PEACEPLUS Local Action Plan, which has secured over €7.6 million in funding to support peacebuilding projects over the next two years.

The New Horizons Programme aims to engage up to 300 young individuals aged between 16 and 24. Participants will learn to produce 2-minute films using smartphones, employing industry-standard filmmaking techniques adapted to accessible technology and software. This hands-on approach not only fosters creativity but also equips young filmmakers with valuable skills relevant in today’s digital landscape.

Training Across Donegal and Beyond

The programme will be implemented across all Municipal Districts in Donegal and extend into cross-border areas, targeting Transition Year students and young people in community settings. Participants will collaborate in small production teams, allowing them to develop their storytelling abilities through scripting, shooting, and editing their films. This team-based structure promotes not only technical skills but also teamwork and collaboration.

The films created during the New Horizons Programme will be showcased at two dedicated film festivals scheduled for May 2026 and May 2027. These events will provide a platform for young filmmakers to present their work publicly and reflect on their experiences within the programme, creating a sense of community and accomplishment.

For schools or community groups interested in participating in this initiative, Póca Productions invites inquiries via email at [email protected]. The New Horizons Programme represents a significant investment in the potential of young people in Donegal, empowering them to explore their creativity through the art of filmmaking.