2021 Winner
First Day
Epic Films
AUSTRALIA
- Live Action: Children (0-10)
First Day is a groundbreaking children's drama series; by both focussing on a transgender teen’s experience, and also being the first Australian children’s series to star a transgender lead actor. Evie Macdonald, cast in the role of Hannah, is a spokesperson and advocate for the trans community. First Day has broken many barriers around trans representation, especially for a young audience, providing insight and understanding. Exploring Evie’s journey to secondary school helps children prepare for, process and reflect on their own transitions to secondary school. The series emphasises inclusivity and helps children learn about identity, respectful relationships and mental wellbeing. It has allowed trans children and non-trans children to experience a story told from an authentic perspective, while also creating a space for families to have a conversation about gender representation, identity and bullying.