Filmmaking alumni continue to make their mark with major UK film funding

Although their stories and filmmaking styles are distinct, Fateme Ahmadi, Seemab Gul and Shalini Adnani share another milestone: all three are women filmmakers from diverse cultural backgrounds whose latest features have attracted support from leading UK film organisations. Their continued success reflects the growing recognition of bold, original voices across the industry.

Shalini Adnani (MA Filmmaking, 2015–2017) is preparing her debut feature Our Share of Sand, backed by Film4 and the BFI. Selected for the UK’s Cannes Great 8 online showcase, the film follows a young girl returning to India to reconnect with her estranged father, uncovering complex family dynamics along the way.

Seemab Gul (MA Filmmaking, 2008–2011) is currently in post-production on Haven of Hope, a BFI-supported feature that continues her exploration of powerful and socially relevant storytelling. After the success of Seemab’s last film, Ghost School, having its world premiere at Toronto International Film Festival, European premiere at Berlinale Generations, and winning the Best Director award at the UK Asian Film Festival, it’s a true pleasure to see another significant step in a career that has earned international recognition for its distinctive voice and perspective.

Fateme Ahmadi (MA Filmmaking, 2010–2012) is directing Daughter of Eden, a psychological thriller backed by BBC Film and the BFI. Also selected for the 2026 Great 8 showcase, the film is set in 2006 and follows a British-Iraqi nurse whose search for answers draws her into a family’s hidden past.

Thinking about your own filmmaking journey? At London Film School you could join a community of emerging filmmakers and learn alongside the next generation of award-winning directors, writers and producers. The next intake for MA Filmmaking will be in January 2027 – applications will open at a later date so keep an eye out!