The Cut, which was produced by Akil Higgins and Kenneth Kangethe, has been shortlisted for the Student Production Documentary category of the British Universities Film & Video Council’s Learning on Screen Awards.

The Cut gives an insight into the goings on in a black barbershop in Walthamstow, East London, which Akil visits regularly, focusing on the eccentric and passionate owner Gareth.

Akil, 24, who graduated with a first class degree in 2016, said: “The idea of this documentary came from me just being in the barbershop and experiencing the black barbershop. I have never seen the black barbershop documented before and I just wanted to open a window into a world that should be viewed.

“It feels great to be nominated as it shows me that I did something right and I’m overjoyed that it got picked. I just want to inspire people to make films that they are really passionate about as it will show when you finish filming.”

The pair’s tutor, Senior Lecturer in Media Jacqueline Lane, said: “Akil and Kenneth should be very proud of this film. I was honoured to supervise this piece and see it emerge from fragments of an idea to an accomplished piece of work. The human stories reach right out of the film to grab you, leaving you wanting more. It has everything; humour, sadness, insight and something to think about - all the elements of a good documentary.”

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on 27 April at the BFI Southbank in London.