communication, voice
& Social change

All voices matter

Around the world people’s lives can improve when they are able to meaningfully participate in decisions that directly affect them—from the household level to the halls of government. Full participation is not only the foundation for democratic, equitable societies, but a human right. Here, the spark of story can change lives; especially when investigated, captured, and shared by people whose voices are often the least heard in society, or whose voices have historically been erased.

Visual storytelling, collaborative media-making, and community-led advocacy are a few processes I’ve used to build individual awareness and self-confidence; strengthen relationships, coalitions and networks; and galvanize decision-making action.

Using participatory media for ocial, political, and behavior change, however, is far from absolute and rarely a simple process—especially when people traditionally unheard seek a significant response to systemic inequities impacting their lives (from disaster response to healthcare; tackling the SDGs to food security).

Considered, community-driven approaches are necessary that can not only advance people’s knowledge and agency, but also address who is listening and how. Meaningful change requires thinking outside the box by paying attention to whose stories are being privileged and why; and seeking innovative actions that can shift inequities in voice, representation, and influence.