- “How Can I Help?” by Yoshua Petit-Frere and George Adegboyega selected from 10 finalists following public pitch event
- Completed production set to premiere at the 25th Dublin International Film Festival 2027
Dublin, Tuesday, 20 October 2026
Following a public pitch at the Light House Cinema on Thursday, 8 October, "How Can I Help?" by Yoshua Petit-Frere and George Adegboyega has been selected to receive the €18,000 ESB Short Film Award to develop their short film script into a completed production. The short film will premiere at the 25th Dublin International Film Festival, taking place from 18 to 28 February 2027.
Selected from 10 finalists, Petit-Frere and Adegboyega presented their film concept to a panel of national and international industry representatives and an audience of industry peers and members of the public. "How Can I Help?" has been inspired by the following theme: “Powering Possibility: exploring how electricity, energy and innovation enable everyday life, connection, creativity and greater future opportunity - not just through infrastructure, but through people, ideas and communities.”
The winning short film pitch follows John, a grieving widower whose life takes an unexpected turn when a power cut brings his neighbour to his door. Turning to the unlikely voice on his phone for advice, John begins to discover a new connection beyond the one he fears losing.
Peter O’Shea, Head of Corporate and Regulatory Affairs, ESB said: “In 2027, ESB will celebrate its 100th anniversary, while Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF) will mark its 25th year. The ESB Short Film Award champions creative talent and "How Can I Help?" is a compelling script that brings the theme of Powering Possibility to life in a thoughtful and engaging way. We were impressed by the creativity and potential of the story, and we’re really looking forward to seeing how it develops from script to screen and to experiencing the completed short film at the Dublin International Film Festival.”
Gráinne Humphreys, Executive Festival Director, Dublin International Film Festival added: “Dublin International Film Festival is delighted by the overwhelming success of the ESB Short Film Award and immensely grateful for ESB’s partnership and support. The submissions have been phenomenal, reflecting the extraordinary depth of creative talent across Ireland. Championing emerging filmmakers is central to the festival’s mission, and as we approach our 25th anniversary, we are particularly proud to support the next generation of Irish filmmaking talent. We look forward to seeing where the cinematic journey takes Yoshua Petit-Frere and George Adegboyega with "How Can I Help?" And we are honoured to premiere the film as part of our 2027 programme.”
For more information visit: ESB Short Film Award | Dublin International Film Festival
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