Solent students help tell stories from the community in landmark project

Produced in collaboration with Solent University, Southampton Forward, Double-Take Studios, Light Up Trails, and sponsored by Westquay, City Reflections celebrates the remarkable everyday people who make Southampton the fantastic place it is. Telling the story of community legends nominated by members of the public through stunning light projection and soundscape, City Reflections recruited the support of a talented cohort of Solent students to bring the project to life.

11 students across several courses, including BA (Hons) Film and Television, Photography, Film Production, Television Production, Digital Music and MA Film Production, got involved in the project, with the University also opening the doors to its industry-standard facilities to enable external partners to create unique visuals for the final attraction.

Third year BA (Hons) Film and Television student, Natalie Madziyire, says:

"I really enjoyed working on the City Reflections project as it allowed me to gain more experience on what it is like to work in film, especially in a professional setting. I really appreciated meeting the community legends and collaborating with everyone on the team that allowed the project to come to life!"

The project gave students the opportunity to gain CV-boosting practical work experience, while also instilling a sense of civic pride as they met city residents and learned more about their stories. In total, students were pivotal in the production of 50 filmed interviews and 50 high-quality portraits of community legends, which are being used to create a unique visual display for residents of all ages to enjoy.

Course Leader Film and Television, Dr Stuart Joy, says:

"City Reflections has been a truly inspiring project to be part of. By bringing together community stories, innovative technology and student-led creative talent, we've not only celebrated the incredible individuals who make Southampton special but also provided our students with invaluable real-world experience. Watching our students grow as filmmakers, photographers and creative practitioners through this collaboration has been deeply rewarding.

"This project highlights the meaningful impact students can have on local community-led initiatives, showcasing their creativity and professionalism while contributing to a powerful celebration of Southampton's identity."

MA Film Production student and project co-director at Solent, Luke Small, says:

"This project was really beneficial in a variety of ways, and working with a range of media-based students and external organisations like Southampton Forward to bring this project to life was fantastic.

"City Reflections really allowed me to grow my team leadership and project management skills, while giving us students the wheel with creativity. Equally, hearing and connecting with the Southampton legends was really special, and it was joyous to see how passionate they were about what they do for the community."

On Friday 14 February, community members from every part of Southampton are invited to The Esplanade, Westquay to view City Reflections as it is unveiled in all its glory. With cutting-edge projection mapping, an immersive soundscape, and memorable light show, the free event gives everyone the opportunity to witness what is possible when people from all over the city work together in this way.

Claire Whitaker, CEO of Southampton Forward, says:

"At Southampton Forward, we are passionate about creating opportunities for emerging talent and fostering connections across our city. Working alongside Solent University and its talented students has been an absolute privilege, and their creativity and professionalism have been integral to bringing this inspiring project to life.

"We are incredibly proud of the role they have played in shining a spotlight on the remarkable individuals who make Southampton such a vibrant place to live, work, and visit."

City Reflections runs Friday 14 to Sunday 23 February 2025. It is free to attend. Additionally, locations across the city will be lit up by immersive light shows, including at St Mary's Stadium.