Filmmaker and photographer celebrates graduation with Tudor Bevan Prize
Gabriel Turnell always had a passion for creating stories - since the age of 11, he’s been making his own films. Now, he celebrates his graduation from BA Adventure Filmmaking at UWTSD’s Carmarthen campus, having won the Tudor Bevan Award for his contribution to the Creative Arts in Wales.
Gabriel chose UWTSD for its unique Adventure Filmmaking course - one of the only programmes of its kind in the UK.
He said: “It’s a great opportunity to dive into outdoor adventure while staying grounded in the filmmaking world, which was already familiar to me. I would absolutely recommend the course. Even if you don’t have experience, there’s so much room to grow and so many amazing opportunities to explore.”
His goals included mastering technical skills in filmmaking, editing, and sound, while gaining a deeper respect for the outdoor world. Throughout the course, he embraced every opportunity - from kayaking in Llandysul to a memorable bikepacking trip through the misty Welsh hills.
Another highlight came in his second year, when he worked with the National Botanic Garden of Wales on a photobook project.
Gabriel said: “We’re typically given a lot of freedom in our creative assignments, and for this one I became fascinated with bees. My tutor helped me get in contact with the Botanic Gardens, and they were incredibly accommodating - they even said I was the first student to reach out to them. I’d definitely recommend collaborating with them if you get the chance.”
Like many students, Gabriel faced challenges adjusting to academic writing and new editing software, but he credits the ongoing support from tutors for helping him succeed. “Their guidance made things so much easier,” he said.
His professionalism also flourished through client work - particularly in a third-year module that partnered students with Nikon UK.
He said: “That project really helped build my confidence in working with a big-name client. We learned how to pitch ideas, communicate clearly, and produce high-quality work. Nikon even loaned us a range of cameras to support the assignment.”
Gabriel was recognised at his graduation ceremony on Tuesday 8th July 2025 with the Tudor Bevan Award, celebrating his creative practice and commitment to cross-disciplinary collaboration. Throughout his time at UWTSD, he worked with students from multiple courses, building friendships and sharing ideas that enriched his projects. One such collaboration came through Coleg Sir Gâr’s fashion department, who not only helped connect him with models but also offered their photography studio for use.
His final-year independent project, S.W.A.G Magazine, showcased this collaborative spirit. A fashion publication rooted in themes of authenticity, ethics, sustainability, culture, and identity, it paired his love of streetwear with his talent in photography.
Gabriel said: “My late mother was a fashion stylist in London, so fashion has always been close to my heart. I knew I didn’t want to start just another streetwear brand, so I combined it with something I’m good at: photography.”
His project shows the versatility of the Adventure Filmmaking course, which gives students the freedom to explore storytelling across a range of formats and disciplines, not just within outdoor or traditional documentary filmmaking.
Brett Aggersberg, Senior Lecturer in Film and Media, said:
“We’re incredibly proud of Gabe and everything he’s achieved during his time on the Adventure Filmmaking course. From professional client work with Nikon to his final-year fashion magazine project, he has consistently demonstrated creativity, professionalism, and a collaborative spirit. His graduation showcase presentation at Yr Egin really captured his passion and the impact of his work. We wish him well in his future, which we are confident will be bright and very creative.”
Looking ahead, Gabriel hopes to take S.W.A.G into print and physical shops, while going freelance and working on video content for small independent companies. Travel is also on the cards - not only for personal growth, but to explore global fashion cultures and how street style varies from country to country.
Congratulations to Gabriel on the award and for the creativity, collaboration, and professionalism he’s brought to UWTSD. We can’t wait to see what he does next.
Further Information
Mared Anthony
Communications and PR Officer: Alumni Relations
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: mared.anthony@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: +447482256996