Young Asian film-makers find right pathways

The primary aim of the film project, and other schemes, is to support vulnerable individuals who may be targeted or recruited to violent extremism.

Organisers say it will also help to support mainstream voices in the community and challenge violent extremist ideology.

The film, called Pathways into Adulthood, explores issues important to the five-strong group including identity, belonging and the role and influence of the media on their lives.

Pathways into Adulthood is one of six projects undertaken with funding from Prevent (Preventing violent extremism).

The young film-makers were assisted by Yorkshire-based Lippy Productions as part of a partnership project between the Kirklees Youth Offending Team and the Kirklees Young People's Service.

The young people and staff involved in the project were present yesterday at the launch of the nine-minute film at Dewsbury Town Hall.

Coun Peter O'Neill, Kirklees Council's cabinet member for safer stronger communities, said: "This project has benefited everyone who took part and has given them useful skills for the future.

"The project has also demonstrated how the arts, as therapy, can broaden a young person's perspective, change their outlook on life and help them become better citizens."

It was accredited through the Arts Council and Asdan (Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network), with the group achieving the bronze arts award and two Asdan short course awards.

Organisers say that, through their involvement in Pathways into Adulthood, the young participants gained film-making skills and boosted their self-esteem, teamworking skills and communication.

Through the Asdan course they became more self-aware, critical thinkers and gained knowledge of oppression and racism and ways to address these issues.