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Emily Stevenson , 22 , co-founder and current Director explains her thinking :
“ Earth Stories exemplifies Keele ’ s commitment to addressing the world ’ s biggest challenges . Supporting young talent to tell these crucial stories not only inspires action but also fosters global conversations around sustainability . I am incredibly proud to be part of a project that empowers the next generation to create change .”
Aaliyah Gardner , 22 , who has championed Earth Stories as its first Director and who is also a co-founder now working as the first Earth Stories Community Coordinator , echoes these sentiments :
“ Seeing the passion and creativity of these young filmmakers is truly inspiring . Their work highlights the urgency of environmental action and showcases the power of storytelling as a catalyst for change . Supporting this initiative has been deeply rewarding .”
The impact of Earth Stories extends far beyond its impressive accolades . Winning Keele ’ s Breaking the Mould Award , the Keele Excellence Awards for Sustainability , and being Highly Commended at the prestigious Green Gown Awards in Edinburgh are remarkable achievements . But the real success lies in the ripple effect created by the festival ’ s films . These stories are not just narratives ; they are calls to action , fostering a deeper connection between humans and nature while inspiring audiences to envision and work towards sustainable futures .
The festival ’ s annual event , held at the Mitchell Arts Centre community film theatre in Hanley , Stoke-on- Trent , brings together filmmakers , students , and the wider community for a celebration of creativity and environmental stewardship .
It is here that the power of philanthropy becomes most visible - a space where ideas and action converge , creating a brighter , greener tomorrow .
The additional funding provided by Keele ’ s alumni has allowed Earth Stories to expand its reach , improve its infrastructure , and enhance the experience for filmmakers and audiences alike . From supporting the judging process to facilitating workshops and screenings , these contributions have been instrumental in the festival ’ s continued success .
Mark Thomas ( Geography & Geology , Class of 1983 ), alumnus donor to Earth Stories says :
“ I was stopped in my tracks when chatting with current Keele student Aaliyah to find out that Keele had its own film festival focusing on environmental issues . ‘ Who knew ?’ I thought , but 5000 young filmmakers from around the world clearly did and have submitted entries over the past three years . At Keele in the late 70s and early 80s , FilmSoc was a big part of my social life and so I was very happy to be involved and give financial support to the Earth Stories festival . I recommend taking half an hour and watching the works of some of these young filmmakers on YouTube .”
As Earth Stories continues to grow , so too does the gratitude of the Keele community for its alumni . Your support has turned a vision into a global movement , empowering young voices to inspire change and reminding us all of the transformative power of storytelling .
Chris Ensor ( Applied Social Studies & Sociology and Social Anthropology , Class of 1973 ) and his wife Val Ensor were amongst the first alumni to see the importance of supporting a festival such as this and said
“ We have chosen to give our financial support to the Earth Stories project because we want to encourage and empower Keele students and others to promote and raise awareness about climate change on an international level . The Earth Stories project allows young people to demonstrate their film making skills by sharing their concerns and to create inspiring solutions for a more responsible and safer future . Our hope is that other alumni and their families will join us to support this important project now and in years to come .”
The next festival Awards Ceremony will be held on 27th March 2025 , at the Mitchell Arts Centre , Hanley . Doors open at 6pm .
Stream it live via the Earth Stories YouTube channel : youtube . com /@ EarthStoriesFilmFestival
Find out more about Earth Stories : keele . ac . uk / earth-stories linktr . ee / earthstories _ ff
The organising team for 2025
Aaliyah Gardner ( centre left ) and Charlie Beale ( centre right ) receiving the highly commended award at the Green Gown Awards in Edinburgh
Left : Emily Stevenson , Co-Founder and Current Director Right : Aaliyah Gardner , Co Founder , former Director and current Community Coordinator