A teenage filmmaker from Newmarket will rub shoulders with stars of the big screen after being nominated for an Into Film Award.

Karina Tatossian’s film The Black Taxi is up for best documentary.

It’s the story of her grandfather Paddy O’Brian; a soldier stationed against the IRA in Northern Ireland during the 1970s. Because he captured so many members, he was constantly being hunted and remained on the group’s hit list 20 years later.

“Film is something I really enjoy doing. There’s something magical in seeing your thoughts and ideas coming alive. I don’t think I can ever stress what an interesting experience it has been for me making this film,” said the 16-year-old.

“I would like to thank my parents for making this idea come true, my art teachers and, finally, Paddy. Thank you so much - now, your story will live on forever.”

The winners will be revealed at during star-studded ceremony at London’s BFI Southbank tomorrow, hosted by TV and radio presenter Gemma Cairney.

Judges include film producer and co-founder of the Academy Award-winning Aardman Animations Peter Lord; Star Wars and Harry Potter art director Lydia Fry, BAFTA Award-winning actor Jamie Bell and founder and CEO of IMDb Col Needham.

The awards are hosted by film education charity Into Film, which engages with more than half of UK schools and counts Eddie Redmayne, Kenneth Branagh, Michael Sheen and Naomie Harris among its ambassadors.

They pay tribute to five-19-year-olds who have shown exceptional achievements in filmmaking or film reviewing and to educators who have demonstrated inspirational use of film in the classroom.

Now in their fourth year, the short films nominated explore a wide range of issues like bullying, self-confidence, school, friendships and first relationships.

Paul Reeve, CEO of Into Film, said: “The awards are a jewel in the crown event and a unique opportunity to celebrate young people and their teachers’ incredible achievements working with film throughout the year.

“I’m very proud to be able to showcase such remarkable creative talent and passion for film and equally proud of the film industry’s wonderful support of the awards. With the current squeeze on arts and creative subjects in many schools it’s more important than ever that we’re able to recognise their importance and demonstrate the hugely positive impact they have on young people’s lives and learning.”

The Into Film Awards are made possible thanks to the support from the film industry through sponsorship. This year’s education partners are NATE (National Association for the Teaching of English), GTM (Guardian Teacher Network) and First News. Visit www.intofilm.org/awards for more info.