A STUDENT filmmaker has spoken about her experiences judging features made by other young people after winning the opportunity at the Ajyal Youth Film Festival in Qatar.

Molly Harding, a talent development alumni for Into Film and former Bridgwater and Taunton College student, was selected by the education charity to spend a week in the Middle East after applying for a competition in their newsletter.

During her time as a youth juror at the festival in the Katara Cultural Village, Molly watched a number of international and short feature films, attended expert talks on contemporary human and media issues and explored the city of Doha.

Talking about her experiences, Molly said she was in awe of Qatar’s art and surroundings and described the experience as “a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

“The Middle East has always been a mysterious, troubled and fascinating section of the world in my eyes,” Molly said.

“As a young documentary filmmaker, travelling and experiencing new cultures is imperative in not only exposing me to new stories and ways of life, but also providing fresh wisdom and perspectives that are crucial to developing as a storyteller.

“I was in awe of the art and surroundings I was able to be immersed in over the course of the program.”

Molly was a UK Delegate Youth Juror who judged films made by amateur filmmakers from across Qatar.

She was one of the jurors for the 18-21 age category and said she was “left on the brink of tears” after watching a documentary titled Even When I Fall about the aftermath of child trafficking from Nepal to circuses in India.

“Opportunities like attending this festival are rare but achievable,” Molly said. “The chance to meet other spirited young filmmakers and individuals from around the world was just as valuable as meeting the filmmakers and, of course, the chance to ride a camel was also a bonus.”

She said the festival rejuvenated her passion for the arts and gave her a fresh understanding of new cultures and religions.

A spokesman for Into Film said: “We are really pleased that Molly was able to benefit from such a great experience with the Ajyal Youth Film Festival. She has been a really great addition to Into Film’s Young Reporters scheme for the past few years and we are incredibly excited to see where her film career takes her as part of our alumni programme.”