Ravensbourne University London lecturer joins judging panel at inaugural Edinburgh International University Film Festival
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Dr. Orson Nava, Associate Professor in Digital Film at Ravensbourne University London, was recently selected to serve as a judge at the inaugural Edinburgh International University Film Festival (EIUFF) — a new student-led festival that aims to reshape access to the UK’s film industry.
Taking place from May 31 to June 2, EIUFF brought together emerging talent, educators, and industry professionals for a packed three-day programme of screenings, workshops, and networking events across two major Edinburgh venues — the Scottish Storytelling Centre and the French Institute of Scotland.
Orson quote
I really enjoyed attending the Edinburgh International University Film Festival as a judge. I saw some great films and was very impressed by the organisers’ commitment to creating a platform for student work. I think it's really important that students have a festival like this to showcase their films to the widest possible audience. The EIUFF is becoming an important bridge between higher education and the film industry. Ravensbourne is really pleased to be able to partner on it.”
Orson at EIUFF
Photo credits: @facendocosephotography
Photo credits: @facendocosephotography
Photo credits: @facendocosephotography
Photo credits: @facendocosephotography
Photo credits: @facendocosephotography
Dr. Nava judged entries in the Fantastical Realities category — a strand that celebrated bold, surreal, and imaginative stories that challenge perception and embrace creativity. The panel was part of EIUFF’s broader competition programme, which also included categories such as Tales of Becoming, Inheritance of the Heart, and States of Mind.
Ravensbourne's involvement came as part of a new strategic, PR-led partnership with the festival.
As one of its founding partners, Ravensbourne joined a cohort of supporters including the University of Edinburgh, Franco Manca, and The Great Grog. This collaboration marks a key moment in our efforts to partner with organisations that share our core values and commitment to creating positive change in the workplace and the wider world.
The EIUFF judging panel included a diverse mix of respected producers, curators, academics and practitioners, including BAFTA-nominated producer Reece Cargan, Aya Films founder Justine Atkinson, and Dr. Amy Hardie of Edinburgh College of Art.
Founded and run by a diverse group of 20 students and recent graduates, EIUFF is a response to growing concerns around barriers to entry in the film industry. In a landscape where many student festivals accept films with budgets up to £100,000, EIUFF capped its submission budget at £5,000, ensuring accessibility for filmmakers operating on limited resources.
With social mobility back on the political agenda and the creative industries identified as a future engine of UK economic growth, Ravensbourne’s partnership with EIUFF highlights the university’s ongoing commitment to widening participation and industry access.
