Film from Highbury College aims to prevent extremism

POWERFUL and creative messages aimed at preventing young people from turning towards extremism came to life at an event last night.
Students from Highbury College with their certificates alongside Simon Hayes, the police and crime commissioner for HampshireStudents from Highbury College with their certificates alongside Simon Hayes, the police and crime commissioner for Hampshire
Students from Highbury College with their certificates alongside Simon Hayes, the police and crime commissioner for Hampshire

Films created by young people were played in the lecture theatre of Hampshire Police headquarters in Netley.

It came as six colleges from across Hampshire and Isle of Wight were competing for the coveted Prevent Film Award.

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Highbury College, in Cosham, submitted three films, but just missed out on the top spot.

Charlie Schultz, 22, from Hayling, helped produced a film based on the ‘Solidarity Selfie’. Various people were filmed taking selfies.

He said: ‘It’s trying to get the message across that no matter what your age, religion, race or sexual orientation, everyone can stand up to fight against extremism.

‘If we all take a picture it shows unity and solidarity. On our own we can be vulnerable, but together we are solid.’

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Charlie said he enjoyed the event, which was hosted by county Simon Hayes, the police and crime commissioner.

‘It’s given me ideas for my next project,’ said Charlie.

Jake Lindemere, 17, from Bedhampton, said: ‘My video was about people not jumping to conclusions when faced with stereotypes about terrorism.

‘It was about what young people know about terrorism.

‘I was getting reaction from the audiences by using a lot of stark imagery.’

He added: ‘It was a labour of love.’

Sara Hutchinson, media tutor, said: ‘The standard of competition was really strong.’

Mr Hayes said: ‘The students produced thought-provoking films to counter the radicalising messages that emanate from terrorist groups.’