A Week of Empowerment Through Storytelling
- IAmWaterFoundation
- May 22
- 3 min read
Reflections by James Njoloza on the Participatory Video and Most Significant Change (MSC) technique training with I AM WATER Foundation. Supported by SESLA and facilitated by Insightshare.
The five-day 2025 Participatory Video, and Most Significant Change (MSC) technique, supported by SESLA and facilitated by InsightShare, was not just a gathering of minds, but a journey of discovery, networking, and practical skill-building.
As James Njoloza, team coach and Adventure-Based Learning (ABL) candidate at the I AM WATER Foundation, recalls, it was a powerful space where diverse voices came together to explore the potential of participatory film and strengthen their capacity for community-driven narrative work.
Reflections from James
I recently had the privilege of participating in a week-long training with InsightShare, where we explored the art of participatory filmmaking. I must admit that I didn't know what to expect at first, but what followed was an incredible journey of learning and growth.
Learning the Ropes
During the training, I gained valuable skills in storyboarding, equipment settings, and curating a Most Significant Change (MSC) question. We also learnt how to capture cut-away videos, edit footage, and analyse stories. The hands-on approach allowed us to dive straight into the world of participatory filmmaking, and I was amazed at how naturally our team came together.
Teamwork Makes a Dream Work
What struck me most was the smooth collaboration within our team. Despite having different ideas, we worked together effortlessly to achieve our goals. The participatory approach to storytelling was a breath of fresh air, allowing us to capture authentic stories without the constraints of traditional filmmaking methods.
Authentic Storytelling
The Participatory Video approach is all about empowering individuals to tell their own stories. By giving them the lead, we were able to capture narratives that were raw, honest, and impactful. This approach is particularly valuable when working with communities, as it allows their voices to be heard without filters or biases.
A moment of joy
The penultimate day of the programme was truly unforgettable. Seeing the parents and participants watch their stories come to life on screen was a moment of pure joy. The smiles on their faces as they watched their children share their experiences with nature before and after the Ocean Guardians Workshops was priceless.
Impact Beyond the Screen
The impact of this project extends far beyond the screen. As the principal of Portlands Primary, Melanie De Mink noted, "The relationship between our school and I AM WATER Foundation is invaluable. The learners return with a newfound appreciation for ocean conservation, and the stories they share are a testament to the power of this partnership."
Summary
The SESLA training was an incredible experience that not only taught me new skills but also showed me the power of storytelling. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this project and look forward to seeing the impact it will have on the communities involved.
This experience highlighted the importance of community-led narratives and the potential for positive change through storytelling and conservation efforts. The collaboration between I AM WATER, SESLA and Insightshare, has been truly enriching, and I am excited to see how these stories will continue to inspire and educate others.
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