Despite the ongoing pandemic, the collective work of civil society organizations (CSOs) is full of stories that need to be heard by a wider audience. Although COVID-19 interventions in communities are reported quantitatively by the government and mainstream media, the lived experiences of CSOs and communities are rich and equally important. By utilizing social media, CSOs can grow its digital presence and create an active and dynamic community of stakeholders. Thus, last January 23-24, 2023, 15 participants from our member networks attended the Videography, Storyboard, and Video Editing Workshop held at the CODE-NGO Office in Quezon City.
NAMAYAN Digital trained the participants in creating multimedia materials for the project. Below are the highlights of the two-day workshop:
DAY 1 (January 23)
Senior Digital Strategist Von Yacob of Namayan Digital talked about the importance of storytelling and genuine connection, the core of human existence. He shared tips on storytelling, storyboard development, and script writing, and how to creatively focus on the message, structure, and engagement.
To wrap up the first part of the program, he left a powerful tip:
Keep writing.
Keep imagining.
Keep creating.
Creative Director Andrea Estrallado explained the basics and process of video editing. She provided a list of free and paid softwares that participants can use to edit their videos. She also gave examples of simple yet powerful cut-to-cut transitions and a practical exercise to use Tiktok.
DAY 2 (January 24)
Professional Photographer Raph Hidalgo discussed the basics of photography using traditional cameras and cellphones. “Shoot with intent” and “Photos must evoke an emotion” inspired the participants to improve their photography skills. They were grouped together to have a photo walk exercise, after which their work was critiqued by the whole group.
What’s Next?
At the end of the two-day workshop, the participants had written the initial outline and script of their upcoming documentary, and presented their 60-second video reel of the 2-day workshop.
Participants will use their knowledge and skills to produce five-minute documentary videos and promotional digital materials on CSO and community narratives of response and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021.
The project, with support from the International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL), will: 1. narrate positive alternative narratives of select innovations, collaboration, and partnerships among CSOs/CSO coalitions, the impact on communities, and the communities response to CSOs’ work; and 2. disseminate the narratives to the target audience using various online platforms so they will understand CSOs’ work in serving communities and protecting people’s rights, and appreciate the public value of civil society work. The videos and digital materials will be published on CODE-NGO’s platforms in the coming weeks. Follow us on Facebook for more updates!