Limerick woman celebrates win at Cannes Film Festival

THERE was glory for Limerick at the Cannes Film Festival. 

Jayne Foley, artistic director with Fresh Film Limerick and art teacher at Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board’s  (ETB) College of FET, Mulgrave Street Campus, won Global Introduction Award 2024 at Cannes Film Festival.

The category 'Community Impact' is for supporting young filmmakers throughout the country, school and college for 28 years.

Jayne told Limerick Live: “It was a huge honour to share the stories of these young film makers and this recognition validates our efforts and inspires us to continue."

Jayne also thanked Film in Limerick, Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, Screen Ireland, the arts council and RTÉ.

Meanwhile, Limerick woman Dr Susan Liddy, who is the president of Women in Film and Television International (WIFTI) has announced that their global summit will be held in Ireland in February 2026. 

Dr Liddy gave a warm shout out to Paul Ryan and Rachael Power, from Film in Limerick, Jayne Foley Fresh Film Festival and Eimear Brophy, Further Education and Training Manager, Enterprise Engagement at Limerick and Clare ETB, who were there on the night.

“It was wonderful to meet so many Limerick people in Cannes who are working to promote film in the region,” Dr Liddy said.

READ MORE: Mayor of Limerick recognises three honourees for achievements

"It speaks to a thriving regional presence and is a positive sign for the further development of film in the Mid-West," she told Limerick Live. 

Dr Liddy is the founder and director of Catalyst International Film Festival in Limerick, which celebrated its 5th year in 2024 and which boasts actor Ruth Negga as its festival ambassador.

Dr Liddy lectures in the Department of Media and Communications in MIC and is a board member of the Writers Guild of Ireland, Raising Films Ireland and the Irish Film Institute.