About this submission

Dear Dad is a visual poem and love letter telling the story of my father and the convalescence of communities, as a Congolese refugee, Welsh citizen and lifelong Chelsea fan who has never attended a match.

I will bring to the screen and tie together my father’s many identities, epitomising the Chelsea community: made of many parts.

Dear Dad will also explore the power of football in forging bonds between friends, neighbours, and a father and son, as well as celebrating a football community who refuse to let distance dampen their passion for their club.


Gabin Kongolo
Creator
Gabin Kongolo is a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans acting, poetry, and filmmaking. As a performer, he has brought dynamic characters to life on screen and stage, starring in acclaimed productions such as Bariau (S4C), Mr Loverman (BBC), and The Suspect (ITV). His stage credits include Antony & Cleopatra at Shakespeare’s Globe, where he played Pompey, and Henry V at the Donmar Warehouse. Beyond acting, Gabin creates cine-poems—a fusion of poetry and film—exploring themes of identity, heritage, and human connection. His works, including My Skin Is My Logo, NDAKO (HOME), and Dear Dad (in collaboration with Chelsea FC), have been recognised for their powerful storytelling.

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