Lisa Holdsworth and Carol Harding lead 2026 programme to find next generation of screenwriters

Women in Film and Television (WFTV) has unveiled the 13 individuals taking part in this year’s edition of its Kay Mellor Screenwriters’ Lab. 

Led by screenwriter Lisa Holdsworth and producer Carol Harding, the scheme is in its fourth year.  

The 13 people taking part are: Aimee Shenton, Caia Lee, Jahnavi Bhatt, Lynsey Tomlinson Booth, Maya Pillay, Michelle Jones, Olivia Gagan, Precious Mustapha, Rachelle Gallagher, Sophie Park, Sylvia-Anne Parker, Tara Ryan and Zanna Cardash. 

The lab is currently taking place at The Hurst in Shropshire, the former home of playwright John Osborne and is a week-long residential programme bringing together emerging writers from across the UK.  

Holdsworth and Harding will both provide expert guidance and mentorship throughout the week. They will be joined by talent agent Cynthia Okoye, a guest speaker who will share insight into agent representation and navigating the industry.  

Previous alumni of the Kay Mellor Screenwriters’ Lab have gone on to secure representation, develop new projects and build careers across the industry. It was established in memory of Mellor, who was one of the UK’s most influential writers, producers and directors.