The project invites 11-25 year olds to make films celebrating the Olympic and Paralympic values of respect, courage, excellence, friendship, equality, determination and inspiration in a filming genre of their choice - documentary, drama, animation, or any other way they wish.

The winners’ work will be broadcasted at the iconic venues of London 2012 to an audience of millions and the best films will be showcased on giant London 2012 Live Site screens around the UK, on the London 2012 website, and on a dedicated Film Nation website.

The programme will also include young people’s workshops offering hands-on experience in filming techniques using state-of-the-art Panasonic equipment.

Ruth Mackenzie, Director of the Cultural Olympiad, said: “This programme will deliver a powerful message about our intentions for the Cultural Olympiad: young people and their creative power are developed and celebrated and, with the support of our partners Panasonic and the Olympic Lottery Distributor, will be brought right into the heart of the 2012 Games.

“I want to take this opportunity to pay personal tribute to our partners and colleagues at the UK Film Council, Screen West Midlands and First Light for the work they have done with us in the creation and development of Film Nation: Shorts. Their inspirational support has been pivotal in realising our ambition to reach out to young people everywhere through the medium of film.”

Submissions will open in June when the project website goes live and the closing deadline will be 1 October 2010. To find out more information, visit the website.