The 2025 edition of the Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year (IYFY) competition was once again a vibrant tribute to the talent and imagination of the young generation of filmmakers across Ireland. The event, successfully hosted in Dublin, spotlighted a diverse range of voices and perspectives, celebrating excellence in visual storytelling and emerging cinematic mastery.
This year, the competition saw young talents explore profound and personal themes, ranging from identity and belonging to the complexities of human relationships and observations of contemporary society. The films presented demonstrated remarkable artistic sensitivity, engaging narratives, and an impressive understanding of cinematic language.
The jury, composed of industry experts, was particularly moved by the honesty and emotion that shone through many of these young productions. The event underscored the importance of providing young creators with a platform to share their stories and express their worldviews.
According to the organizers, this edition, warmly received in Dublin, once again confirmed the immense potential and passion that drive young Irish filmmakers. The IYFY continues to play a crucial role in encouraging and celebrating the next wave of cinematic talent in Ireland, promising a rich and diverse future for Irish cinema. The online accessibility of some of the winning works now allows a wider audience to discover the quality and originality of these young directors.
Congratulations Emma Whelan
1st place 2025
‘Abhaile’
Emma Whelan won Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year 2025 for Abhaile, a personal film she wrote, directed, edited, and starred in. Exploring identity, class, and belonging through a working-class teen’s friendships, its honesty and message – home is about people, not place – resonated with viewers. Watch ABHAILE on YouTube. Jayne Foley of Fresh Film called it “an extraordinary achievement” and praised Whelan’s heartfelt storytelling.
Photos credit: Céline Mermier ‘IYFTY Final Dublin’
FRESH FILM FESTIVAL
Empowering the future of Irish film, the Fresh International Film Festival and Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards spark creativity in young people and inspire careers in the screen industries. Through hands-on learning in visual narrative and collaborative production, Fresh develops the skills of Ireland’s emerging talent.
The generous collaboration and investment of our partners – the Arts Council of Ireland, RTÉ, Screen Ireland, Omniplex Cinema Group, Limerick City and County Council, Coimisiún na Meán, Limerick & Clare Education & Training Board, Screen Producers Ireland, The Radharc Trust, Animation Ireland, Bow Street Academy, IFCO, and RTÉ Supporting the Arts – are crucial to fostering a thriving and enduring Irish film and television sector.
