Key Points
- Havering Council hosted a red carpet premiere event at Lumiere Cinema in Romford.
- The premiere showcased five powerful short films created by local young people.
- The project was developed in collaboration with The Habbit Factory and Havering’s Youth Council.
- The films spotlight the borough’s ambitions and WISH (Wellbeing, Inclusion, Safety, and Hope) for children and young people.
- The event symbolises Havering’s commitment to celebrating youth creativity and addressing social issues through film.
- Lumiere Cinema has become a vibrant cultural hub in Romford, supporting diverse community events and film screenings.
- The council’s film initiative is part of broader efforts to engage and empower youth through arts and culture.
What was the special occasion at Lumiere Cinema in Romford?
As reported by Havering Council’s official news team, the Lumiere Cinema in Romford was the venue for a highly anticipated premiere event showcasing five short films created by local young people. This special occasion was marked by a red carpet rollout signalling the importance the council places on youth artistic expression and community engagement.
Who collaborated to create the short films?
Havering Council, in collaboration with The Habbit Factory—a creative organisation dedicated to supporting young people’s artistic development—and Havering’s Youth Council, brought these films to life. The project seeks to give voice to children and young people in the borough, emphasising their wellbeing, inclusion, safety, and hope for the future, collectively described as the borough’s WISH.
What themes do the films explore?
The five short films are described as powerful, reflecting the feelings, ideas, and aspirations of local youth. Through these films, the young filmmakers highlight social issues and personal experiences important to their generation, contributing to a wider conversation about community wellbeing and youth empowerment in Havering.
How does this event fit in Havering’s cultural strategy?
The premiere aligns with Havering’s cultural strategy, which aims to unite education and arts partners to make children and young people feel proud of their community and promote social cohesion. This strategy is outlined in the council’s “A Good Life” cultural framework, which focuses on engaging youth with culture as a way of fostering inclusion and pride.
What role does Lumiere Cinema play in the community?
Lumiere Cinema in Romford is described as a dynamic community venue that has rapidly established itself as a cultural hub since its opening earlier in 2025. Beyond mainstream film screenings, Lumiere hosts diverse events including film festivals, award ceremonies, Q&A with notable directors, and other community activities. The council sees Lumiere as a valuable platform for showcasing local talent and fostering engagement with the arts.
Are there any notable upcoming events at Lumiere Cinema?
As of early September 2025, notable events at Lumiere included special screenings like “Signs of Life” with live Q&A sessions featuring actor-director Joseph Millson and star David Ganly, demonstrating Lumiere’s commitment to unique cinematic experiences and interaction between audiences and filmmakers. The venue is also set to host the Romford Film Festival and other local film showcases later in the year.
What statements have been made by organisers and officials?
While the council primarily highlights the films and their thematic significance, Spencer Hawken, Chair of the Romford Film Trust managing Lumiere Cinema, has praised the venue’s success, noting the cinema’s innovative membership model and its role in sustaining a community-focused cinema charity. The emphasis remains on creating accessible cultural activities that foster connection within Havering.
How are the short films expected to impact the community?
The short films premiere is not just a cultural milestone but a reflection of Havering’s commitment to supporting its youth. By giving young people an opportunity to tell their stories and express themselves creatively, the borough aims to promote wellbeing, inclusivity, and social awareness among its residents. This initiative serves as a model for how local governments can engage younger generations in meaningful cultural projects.
Where can interested audiences learn more or view the films?
The short films are available through the council’s platforms and events at Lumiere Cinema. The cinema regularly updates its schedule with screenings and community events, which can be accessed via their website and social media channels. Future film festivals and screenings at Lumiere will likely continue to showcase works from local talent.
What is the significance of this event for Havering’s identity?
By hosting and promoting youth-created films, Havering Council reinforces its dedication to cultural inclusiveness and youth empowerment, positioning the borough as a vibrant, creative community. This event enhances Havering’s cultural identity and supports its vision of a community where every child and young person is actively engaged in and proud of their local culture.
This premiere at the Lumiere Cinema marks a notable moment in Havering’s cultural landscape by celebrating the creativity and voices of young people. It underscores the role local councils and cultural venues play in fostering community cohesion and supporting the arts as tools for social progress. Through these films and future initiatives, Havering continues to build a rich and inclusive cultural environment for all its residents.
