Zombie School: A Youth-Led Film Championing Civic Pride and Creativity

The Zombie School film, an exciting collaboration between young people from Hounslow, Hillingdon and Lviv, highlights the remarkable potential of youth creativity and social action. Produced by members of the Big Local Youth Film Club in partnership with C-Change West London’s Hillingdon Youth Filmmaking and Social Action Club.

Bringing together Cranford Community College, One World Foundation’s Unbroken Cities project, and international partners in Ukraine, the project sought to unite young people from diverse backgrounds to address vital themes such as civic pride and community-building. 

The Zombie School film, featuring Ameliah, Yaryna, Jamal, Vikram, Alexia, Jessie, Shannon, Jayden, Kapil, Raha, Tarek, Viktoriia, Kallum, and Adam, captivated audiences at its premiere in May 2024. Hosted at Cranford Community College as part of the Unbroken Cities programme.

The film was one of two innovative projects developed through Young Lviv, an initiative promoting partnerships between young people in Lviv and London. One project, school-based, explored environmental themes, while the second, community-focused, allowed participants to define their own creative direction. Guided by a peer-to-peer model, the initiative aimed to widen participation and nurture a sense of civic pride among its participants.

The Zombie School film effectively combines imagination and social commentary, providing a platform for young creators to express their perspectives on community challenges. Its success is a powerful reminder of how storytelling and filmmaking can inspire positive change and connect communities across borders.
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By working with local and national partners and engaging in dynamic collaboration, the project has provided invaluable experiences for all involved, igniting a sense of shared purpose and laying the groundwork for future film initiatives.