Daisy Edgar-Jones on mission to ‘help encourage new voices’ in film world
As part of a joint initiative between EE and BAFTA, actress Daisy Edgar-Jones has declared she is determined to “help encourage new voices” in the filmmaking world.
Daisy Edgar-Jones is determined to “help encourage new voices” in the filmmaking world.
The BAFTA-nominated actress Daisy Edgar-Jones, 26, shot to fame after her work in BBC drama Normal People, and has now joined actor David Jonsson, 31, to mentor young filmmakers as part of EE and BAFTA’s Set The Stage programme.
Daisy said: “EE and BAFTA’s Set The Stage is such a brilliant initiative – I know I would have jumped at the chance to take part when I was starting out. I’m genuinely honoured to be involved and to help encourage new voices in any way I can.”
The EE and BAFTA initiative, delivered in partnership with the Young Film Academy, offered 16 teenagers the chance to experience life on a film set, developing and producing their own short film under the guidance of industry professionals.
A group took part in a seven-day residential where they wrote, filmed and produced Setting Sail, a short exploring the theme of “growing up as a teenager in Britain today”.
The film follows the character Hannah and her younger self, Peanut, on a treasure hunt that stirs memories of her late grandfather.
It stars House of the Dragon actress Carol Ball, 34, and will premiere in early 2026.
The teenagers were also guided by a team of award-winning experts – Rochelle Newman, Lauren Sequeira, Paix Robinson and Toby Elwes – across production, storytelling, costume design, cinematography and direction.
The work was supported by technology partner Samsung UK.
David, winner of the EE Rising Star Award 2025, said: “To be part of what feels like the next moment in movies and storytelling is truly inspiring. For me, EE and BAFTA’s Set The Stage is a reminder of how transformative opportunities like this can be.
“Coming from my end of London it can be hard to see a path for yourself. My path to this wasn’t linear. It takes time, guidance, and support. To support people like me as they take bold steps into storytelling is deeply moving.”
Throughout the programme, Daisy attended workshops and rehearsals, supporting the teenagers with performance and storytelling, while David hosted a question and answer session on breaking barriers into the industry and the importance of behind-the-scenes roles.
Kelly Engstrom, Brand and Demand Generation Communications Director at EE, said: “At EE, we want to empower young people to discover their passions and explore their curiosities, as part of our commitment to being the best network for families.
“Set The Stage is a testament to what happens when teenagers are given the tools, mentorship, and space to dream big. It’s been incredible to witness their growth, and we’re proud to play a part in shaping a more inclusive and dynamic future for British storytelling.”
Anthony Cole-Johnson, Executive Director of Commercial at BAFTA, said: “BAFTA is proud to partner with EE on Set The Stage.
“This programme reflects our shared commitment to nurturing diverse talent and creating tangible pathways into the screen industries. It’s more than just skill-building – it’s about fostering confidence, encouraging collaboration, and ensuring that the next generation of storytellers reflects the richness and diversity of voices across the UK.”
The short film Setting Sail will premiere in early 2026 and later be released on EE’s YouTube channel.
A documentary chronicling the journey of the teenage participants will also be made available.
