Why Frame the Future?
Thames Freeport is proud to launch Frame the Future, a new short film competition inviting 18–25-year-olds from Barking & Dagenham, Havering, and Thurrock to share their stories, ideas, and ambitions for the places they call home.
This initiative is part of our wider strategy to ensure young people are included in shaping the future of the region — from skills and jobs to transport, spaces and sustainability.
What’s the competition about?
Your film should focus on at least one of the areas below:
Your Vision
Imagine the future of your area — what could it look and feel like in 10 years?
Think about what would make your community feel like the best place to live and grow.
Your Story
Every community has a personality. What’s yours?
Describe the spirit, sounds, and stories that make your area unique.
Your Ambitions
What would help you and others reach your dreams?
Think about how your area could help turn passion into possibility.
Your Change
What do you want to keep, and what do you want to change?
Imagine the one change that would make your area even better for everyone
These stories will help bring forward new perspectives and inform the Thames Freeport Strategic Masterplan as we plan long-term investments in infrastructure, skills, and community development.
In Partnership with 2–3 Degrees
We are pleased to deliver this programme in collaboration with 2–3 Degrees, a social enterprise that specialises in youth development through creative and confidence-building opportunities.
“I’m excited to share that through our partnership with Thames Freeport, we’re giving them the opportunity to tell their own stories using creative tools.
I had the chance to take part in a similar challenge at their age, and it truly inspired me to contribute to real change in my local community.”
“Young people are at the heart of everything we do at 2–3 Degrees, and their voices should shape the future of their communities,” says
Azzees Minott, COO of 2–3 Degrees.
The competition asks participants to imagine and share their views on these ideas.
What’s on offer?
- 🏆 The winning entry will be professionally remade with a film production team
- 💼 Shortlisted entries will get access to mentoring, networks, and platforms to showcase their work
- 🎟️ A screening event in 2026 will celebrate the finalists
Key Dates & How to Enter
- Deadline: Sunday 25 January 2026
- Who can enter: Individuals or teams aged 18–25 who live, work or study in Barking & Dagenham, Havering or Thurrock
- Format: 1 minute 30 seconds video (filmed, animated, AI-generated — anything authentic)
Important information
We will be holding an online drop-in session where participants can learn more about the competition and get to know Thames Freeport.
