3682(II)_Participatory video production highlights change

July 22, 2015

By Fr. Ambrose Pereira, SDB

Panatina, Solomon Islands - Youngster between the ages of 18 to 27 years participated in the second part of the ‘Share and Inspire’ program. It focused on Participatory Video Training and was held at the Commonwealth Youth Program Campus, Panatina, Solomon Islands, on 20th and 21st July 2015. The twenty participants were youth members of the Phase 7 Youth@Work program.

Over the two days, the participants scripted their issues into a video story. They had an interesting time handling the Video camera, understanding its many possibilities and above all teaching, instructing and learning from each other. The practical exercises gave them a chance to learn the different types of camera angles and try out different shots and movements as they put together the stories they are passionate about. The participants were given tips on how to convey the ‘Where, What, When and Who’ in a shot. The emphasis was on the aspects of social change conveyed through the video clip. “The passion of my change is conveyed through my words and expressions,” said David Tarai.

The ‘Story Board’ session, a process started by Walt Disney in the 1930s and soon used by every major film studio, brought out the creativity of the participants. “It gave a visual idea and enabled the participants organize a series of illustrations to give a powerful message”, said Alphonse Ganea. The issues highlighted were Education and Youth Empowerment while other issues of Christian belief, addiction, culture and Environment were also dealt with.

“The visual impact of picture stories conveys a powerful message and has significant impact. This is far greater that the spoken narrative”, said Methodius Iapara, from the Ministry of Youth, Women and children. “We need to encourage and support our youth express their issues through colourful posters and vibrant videos to bring about positive change in our communities and society”, he continued.

“Our sharing gives us hope for a brighter future”, said Eddie Wagiro and “we have learnt that an interesting video can convey our views for change to a large audience”, said Raywin Taroaniara.

“The learning has been through enjoyable interaction and participation”, said Walasi George Kiriau. “We look forward to more training as we strive to understand our life as youth and our role is in society,” said Gideon Mananga. “My favourite part of my sessions have been the participatory activities that we have all enjoyed”, said Hilda Tolini. “Working together with the other youth has helped us cooperate with each other and given us a sense of togetherness,” she said. “The small group work and the interaction” has been a great learning experience for myself and my companions”, added Silas Manebona.

Several participants commented on the cooperation experienced as they went about their group activities while others expressed the need for similar programs. “We need similar activities to be introduced,” said Eddie Wagiro. “This program is very interesting and I am glad that I am part of it,” said Emmy Foroasi. “The sharing and interaction has been an encouragement to each of us as we share our hopes and dreams for a brighter future of Solomon Islands,” said Tyson Nore.

The program has been coordinated by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community for members of the Youth@Work project in collaboration with the Salesians of Don Bosco, Solomon Islands and the School of Communication for Social Change, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. It enters its last day on Thursday 23rd July, 2015.