Filmmaker Ella Greenwood has been recognised with the highest accolade a young person can achieve for social action or humanitarian efforts – The Diana Award.
Established twenty-five years ago in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, the Award is supported by both her sons, HRH The Prince of Wales and Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex.
Ella founded London-based ‘Broken Flames Productions’ as a teenager, inspired by her personal struggles with depression, self-harm, and eating disorders. Drawing on her experiences Ella’s mission is to reshape mental health representation in media. Her award-winning films, including Smudged Smile starring BAFTA Winner Mia Mckenna-Bruce, and Self-Charm starring BAFTA Winner Bukky Bakray, have screened globally, sparking meaningful conversations and changing the narrative around mental health.
She has created projects in partnership with charities such as HUMEN and PAPYRUS and is an ambassador for leading teenage mental health charity stem4. At 19, Ella was made a Forbes 30 Under 30 Honouree, and at the age of 21 was awarded ‘Young Star’ at the Women of the Future Awards. Last month, her film ‘Twofold’ was selected for the Amazon MGM Studios Competition at the prestigious SCAD Savannah Film Festival which was attended by Hollywood stars including Amy Adams, Kevin Costner and Sebastian Stan.
Ella is currently on the Directors UK Inspire Scheme, being mentored by BBC and Apple TV Director Ellie Heydon. Her advocacy promotes inclusivity, reduces stigma, and fosters understanding, and she hopes to continue to create impactful stories that resonate with diverse audiences worldwide.
