Hertfordshire Youth Commission Animation Shortlisted for National Award – Residents Urged to Get Behind It
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Young people in Hertfordshire are making waves nationally, as a powerful animation created with the Hertfordshire Youth Commission has been shortlisted for not one, but two Creativepool People’s Choice Awards.
The film, “And I Was Thinking…”, tackles knife crime in a raw, honest and relatable way. Created against the backdrop of the Knife Angel’s visit to Hertfordshire by young people, for young people, it’s now gaining the recognition it deserves. The Police and Crime Commissioner is now asking local residents to help it go even further.
We’re asking everyone in Hertfordshire to watch it, share it and vote.
This is about more than an award. It is about making sure the film reaches the young people it was made for and gives them a way into honest conversations about knife crime, the choices they face and the impact those choices can have.
The Youth Commission has been at the heart of this work, bringing together young voices to challenge issues like violence, safety and trust in policing. This nomination is a huge moment, not just for the film, but for every young person who helped shape it.
Watch and vote here: https://creativepool.com/annual/2026/shortlist
Scroll to the Animation and Social Good categories and Individuals to find the film ‘And I was thinking…’ by Mike Choo
Voting closes on the 16th July
You can also view the full project here:
Jonathan Ash-Edwards, Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire said
“This film tackles a difficult issue in a powerful and thought-provoking way. The young people involved were passionate about raising awareness of knife crime and challenging the attitudes that can lead to violence, and that passion shines through in every second of the animation.
“What makes the project so special is that has been created by young people, for young people.It has the potential to start important conversations, challenge perceptions and help prevent future harm.
“I’m incredibly proud to see their work recognised nationally and I hope residents across Hertfordshire will take a moment to watch the film, share it and vote. Every vote helps shine a spotlight on a message that could make a real difference.”
Take a minute to watch. Share it with someone. And if it resonates – vote.
Let’s get Hertfordshire behind this.