An Ipswich man who grew up on the fringes of gang culture has been hailed for his performance in accolades at two independent film festivals.

Kashif O'Connor was named Best New Actor in the Girona Film Festival this month for his role in ‘Warhol’, which was also nominated for Best UK Film at London’s Raindance Film Festival.

The 38-year-old, who says he grew up in poverty in Ipswich and groomed into gang culture from a young age, is hoping to inspire young people with the feature film.

He stars as Solomon, a homeless ex-military character who tries to persuade a young man against committing a murder as an initiation to enter a gang.

Mr O’Connor said: "Just to be nominated was an accolade for me, but I feel ecstatic. I am so grateful and appreciative that my work has been recognised.

Ipswich Star: Kashif O'Connor at the Raindance Film FestivalKashif O'Connor at the Raindance Film Festival (Image: Supplied by O'Connor)

“I am waiting for the plaque to come home. It was a surprise - 8,000 plus films were submitted with ten or more up-and-coming actors per film.

"I think we hit the mark with the film, it has impacted many young people watching it. It was received well.

"It has been touching to receive some of the online thanks and congratulations too. I've had people say that I've inspired them, and that is what I'm doing it for.

Ipswich Star: The 38-year-old plays Solomon, a homeless ex-military man who tries to persuade a young man against committing a murder as an initiation to enter a gang.The 38-year-old plays Solomon, a homeless ex-military man who tries to persuade a young man against committing a murder as an initiation to enter a gang. (Image: Kashif O'Connor)

"It's for people who feel lost in the world and haven't found themselves, and never feel like they will get anywhere. I've been through it all, still at times going through it all, but it is possible.

"Believe, put your trousers on, and take that step each day.”

Ipswich Star: Kashif O'Connor won the Best New Actor award for his portrayal in Warhol.Kashif O'Connor won the Best New Actor award for his portrayal in Warhol. (Image: Kashif O'Connor)

'Warhol' also won the prize for the best feature film at the Spanish event, becoming the project with the most awards in the 35th Girona Film Festival.

The film opened the festival, also winning awards for Best Producer (Shelley Atkin), Best Actor (Corey Johnson), and Best Supporting Actor (Gethin Anthony).