The Ayrshire Film Company have been awarded £85,970 from the National Lottery Community Fund to help them support young people to land jobs in the creative industries.
The cash comes from the fund's Young Start scheme, which awards dormant bank account money to projects that help young people reach their full potential.
Ross Carswell, 27, from Irvine, first got involved with Kilmarnock-based Ayrshire Film Company five years ago and now volunteers as a mentor for young people wanting to improve their media skills.
He said: “The more time I’ve spent with the media club the more I’ve felt like I’m developing when it comes to my camera work and how I’m telling stories.
"I’m actually writing my own film now called Auld Mary’s Shoes. It’s a film about a person with dementia to raise awareness about the condition.
“The film club has opened so many doors for me. Media is a very competitive field and very hard to get into unless you have connections. Without the media club I don’t think I would have seen myself getting into the industry.”
Creative Director Taylor McInroy said: "This funding will allow us to deliver a high-quality project which helps young people in Ayrshire gain new skills, build connections within their local community and support them in taking a positive step towards their future career."
Kate Still, Chair of The National Lottery Community Fund Scotland, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to continue funding such a broad range of vital projects for young people all over Scotland.
"This project will help more young people like Ross to gain the skills and experience they need to express themselves or pursue a career in the arts.
"Young people like Ross sharing their stories reminds us how important these groups are, and how many young lives are improved by Young Start funding.”
Young Start helps young people aged eight to 24 become more confident and play an active part in realising their potential.
Funding of up to £100,000 is available for youth led projects. Groups can apply by emailing advicescotland@tnlcommunityfund.org.uk or calling 0300 123 7110.
Find out more at: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/programmes/young-start .
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