EE and BAFTA launch next phase of Set the Stage

EE and BAFTA have launched the next phase of Set the Stage, an immersive filmmaking programme supported by the Young Film Academy which aims to open doors across the industry.

The programme gives 16 teenagers the chance to produce a short film under the mentorship of Daisy Edgar-Jones, EE Rising Star Award 2025 winner David Jonsson, and an award-winning crew across storytelling, production, cinematography, costume design and direction.

The latest phase of the initiative saw the teenagers join a seven-day immersive programme, where they brought their skills and vision to life, undertaking full production on their original short film, Setting Sail, written and developed by themselves within the Set the Stage programme.     

Setting Sail, which explores the theme of growing up in Britain today, will premiere in early 2026 and will subsequently be available on EE’s YouTube channel, alongside a behind-the-scenes documentary capturing the teens’ journey.  

The story will follow the main character, Hannah, and her younger self, Peanut, on a nostalgic treasure hunt that rekindles memories of her late grandfather, featuring a cast that includes actress Carol Ball.

Guided by an experienced crew–Rochelle Newman, Lauren Sequeira, Paix Robinson, and Toby Elwes–the teens honed their skills in storytelling, cinematography, direction, and production through immersive workshops and rehearsals, with the filmmaking supported by technology partner Samsung UK.  

Throughout the filmmaking process, Edgar-Jones joined performance and storytelling workshops across all the creative teams, while Jonsson hosted an intimate Q&A session with the teens spotlighting his own journey, how to break down barriers in the industry, and the importance of behind-the-scenes roles.  

Jonsson said: “To be part of what feels like the next moment in movies and storytelling is truly inspiring.

“For me, EE and BAFTA’s Set the Stage is a reminder of how transformative opportunities like this can be. Coming from my end of London, it can be hard to see a path for yourself. My path to this wasn’t linear. It takes time, guidance, and support. To support people like me as they take bold steps into storytelling is deeply moving.”  

Edgar-Jones added: “EE and BAFTA’s Set the Stage is such a brilliant initiative–I know I would have jumped at the chance to take part when I was starting out. I’m genuinely honoured to be involved and to help encourage new voices in any way I can.” 

Set the Stage aims to showcase the breadth of careers available in the screen arts, with BAFTA and EE looking to open doors across the industry and provide teenagers with the ability to convert social media, gaming and tech skills into real jobs on and off set.

Anthony Cole-Johnson, executive director of commercial at BAFTA, said: “BAFTA is proud to partner with EE on Set the Stage. 

“This programme reflects our shared commitment to nurturing diverse talent and creating tangible pathways into the screen industries. It’s more than just skill-building–it’s about fostering confidence, encouraging collaboration, and ensuring that the next generation of storytellers reflects the richness and diversity of voices across the UK.”  

Kelly Engstrom, brand and demand generation director at EE, added: “Set the Stage is a testament to what happens when teenagers are given the tools, mentorship, and space to dream big. It’s been incredible to witness their growth, and we’re proud to play a part in shaping a more inclusive and dynamic future for British storytelling.”