From the Fest: YAY Presents Paths into Animation

Available: Friday 14 Nov - Sunday 30 Nov 2025

So you're looking at a career in animation? Have we got a panel for you! We've brought together some of the finest minds in animation to deliver a frank and open panel to discuss pathways into the animation business. Crammed full of experience, expect an honest overview of the industry to help you find your own path.

Featuring guest speakers Baz Sells (Writer/Director/DoP & Co-Founder - One6th), Francesca Adams (Director & Storyboard Artist - Blue Zoo) and Will Anderson (Director/Writer/Producer & Animator). In conversation with Steve Henderson (Festival Director - MAF).

This event was pre-recorded during MAF2025.

The Young Animator of the Year is supported by:

Guests

Baz Sells

Baz is a British, working-class Writer, Director and DoP. He is the co-founder of One6th Animation Studio alongside producer Ben Jackson. One6th’s latest work is the BFI backed short, Two Black Boys in Paradise, which screens in MAF25's British Animated Short Film programme. The film has won both UK and international awards and is set to make its broadcast debut on Channel 4.

Francesca (Chess) Adams

After graduating from the NFTS, Francesca first worked as a storyboard artist in children's television, where she was also invited to write for it.
Now, with almost 15 years of experience in the animation industry (most of which has been at Blue Zoo), she also works as a Director, recently directing the latest series of the BBC's Numberblocks, Series 8.

Will Anderson

Will Anderson is a BAFTA-winning filmmaker and animator from Scotland. Edinburgh based, he writes, directs & produces lots of character driven, dialogue-led animated work for film, tv, theatre & online.