Young creatives embrace pressure at Cannes Young Lions Kenya

Ephantos Kiiji and Kirimi Thuranira, partners in the film category at the Young Lions Competition. /HANDOUT

As judging got underway at the Cannes Young Lions Kenya 2026 competition in Nairobi, young creatives across categories took a moment to reflect on the intense process that brought them to the final showcase.

From last-minute edits to high-stakes jury presentations, the experience tested not only creative skill but also mental resilience.

In the Film category, Team Lucent, made up of Ephantos Kiiji and Kirimi Thuranira, spoke shortly after submitting their 60-second film entry.

Selected from hundreds of applicants, the duo described the competition as both demanding and affirming.

“The biggest challenge wasn’t shooting or editing,” Kiiji said. “It was understanding the brief and making sure we were executing exactly what was being asked.”

Duncan Lubenga and David Odipo, teammates on the Digital category at the Young Lions Competition doing a two-fists sign to show their teams name 'Team Mbwegze'

Despite creative blocks and tight deadlines, the pair drew inspiration from their surroundings and moments of calm to push through.

“For us, this platform is about showing a new era of Kenyan film. There are stories and styles that haven’t been fully seen yet,” Kiiji added.

In the Digital category, Duncan Lubanga and David Odipo reflected on a different kind of pressure—pitching their concept directly to the jury. They described the presentation room as intense, silent and isolating, with anxiety peaking just moments before delivery.

“It felt like the whole world had shut down and it was just us and the jury,” Lubanga said. “There was a lot of anxiety, but also excitement.”

Despite the nerves, both creatives expressed confidence in their submission and presentation. They said they would not change anything about their approach, emphasizing belief in their interpretation of the brief.

“The brief is open to perception,” Odipo explained. “In a different space, you might think differently, but with this brief, we did our best.”

Asked to rate their confidence, the duo did not hesitate. “Gold,” they said, hopeful yet grounded.

Across categories, a shared theme emerged: pride in the work submitted, respect for fellow competitors, and gratitude for a platform that allows young Kenyan talent to be seen and heard.

As winners await announcement, the experience itself has already left a lasting impact—sharpening skills, strengthening confidence, and reaffirming that Kenyan creativity belongs on the global stage.