News - Animation

Animation Dingle 2026 winners at Ballyfermot!

Animation Dingle is a qualifying Student Academy Awards festival, placing it among a small number of international events that directly connect student work to global industry recognition. Student films selected for competition—and subsequently nominated—become eligible for consideration at the Student Academy Awards, offering a clear progression pathway from education into the professional sector.

Participation in the festival provides students with direct engagement with industry practitioners, including independent filmmakers and senior figures from major international studios. These interactions offer critical feedback, professional insight, and networking opportunities that are not easily replicated in a classroom setting. The Big Pitcher competition is a key example of this industry alignment. Students present original concepts to an audience of peers and professionals, developing pitching skills essential for careers in animation and screen industries. The winning project is awarded a three-month paid internship with Jam Media, alongside the opportunity to pitch at Cartoon Springboard. This year’s award was presented to final year animation student Caoimhe O’Brien for ‘Mighty Knighticorn’, demonstrating the calibre of ideas being developed within the programme.

Student success extended across multiple categories. In the ‘Stings’ competition—30-second animated works that frame festival screenings—Padraig Whyte’s ‘That One Time An Phiast Fell Through Reality’ received the top award, highlighting strong collaborative practice. In addition, Saoirse Kelly was awarded ‘Best Cinematography’ for her final-year film, ‘The Cat Burglar’, recognising a high level of technical and artistic achievement. These outcomes underline the importance of Animation Dingle as a platform for student development, industry engagement, and external validation. Participation ensures students are positioned within a professional context, with opportunities to showcase their work, build networks, and progress toward industry careers.

Best Cinematography Award was awarded to The Cat Burglar by Saoirse Kelly, Ballyfermot College.

The Big Pitcher Winner,  was awarded to  Mighty Knighticorn by Caoimhe O Brien, from Ballyfermot College who has won a 3-month paid internship with JAM Media and will get to pitch at Cartoon Springboard later this year.

Best Sting sponsored by Monster Entertainment! was awarded to That One Time An Phiast Fell Through Reality by Padraig Whyte, Ballyfermot College

Reflecting on the awards ceremony  Maurice Galway, Director of Animation Dingle said

“As we celebrate 14 years of Animation Dingle, it’s inspiring to see the exceptional talent and creativity on display from Ireland and around the world. This year’s festival again highlights the camaraderie and support of the animation community. We are committed to supporting these young emerging artists as they shape the future of storytelling.”