Limerick woman Jayne Foley, founder and artistic director of Fresh Film, has won the prestigious Impact Leadership Award at the 2026 Global Production Awards in Cannes, recognising her outstanding contribution to the film industry and her 30 year commitment to supporting young filmmakers in Ireland and internationally.
Presented by Screen International during the Cannes Film Festival, the award celebrates individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on the global film and television industry through leadership, innovation, inclusion and sustainability.
Foley was recognised for her work building Fresh Film into one of Ireland’s leading platforms for young filmmakers. Based in Limerick, the organisation has supported thousands of young people to create, screen and share original film work nationally and internationally over the past three decades.
Fresh Film’s Jayne Foley celebrates winning the prestigious Impact Leadership Award at Cannes 2026.
The international jury praised Foley’s “sustained generational impact on Ireland’s screen industry” and highlighted the long-term infrastructure she has created for young filmmakers.
One judge commented:
“Foley exemplifies leadership through institution-building — creating a lasting infrastructure that will continue to impact the industry beyond any individual’s tenure.”
Judges also praised the success of Fresh Film’s programmes, including Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year, which provides young creators with opportunities to have their work screened in cinemas and broadcast nationally on RTÉ.
Speaking following the award ceremony in Cannes, Foley said she was “deeply honoured” by the recognition.
“This award really belongs to the thousands of young filmmakers who have trusted Fresh Film with their stories over the past 30 years. Seeing young people find confidence, creativity and a voice through filmmaking has always been at the heart of what we do. To see that work recognised on an international stage like Cannes is incredibly special.”
Foley was shortlisted alongside international industry leaders from the United States, Austria and South Africa, making the win a significant achievement for both Limerick and Ireland’s screen sector.
Fresh Film celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and continues to work nationally and internationally to support the next generation of filmmakers through festivals, training programmes, mentorships and industry partnerships.
For more information on Screen International winners see here
