boreal Storytellers 2019

APPLY NOW - Applications Due May 10th.

Boreal Storytellers Program

Boreal Storytellers is a new video advocacy project that aims to train community members in creating short videos that help build support for Indigenous-led conservation initiatives like Indigenous Guardians and Indigenous Protected Areas.

The project will provide video equipment, training and stipends to a group of Indigenous storytellers, who create short social-media friendly original videos. The Indigenous Leadership Initiative (ILI) and the International Boreal Conservation Campaign (IBCC) will provide additional post production and promotional support to finalize the videos professionally, and make sure they reach the largest audience possible. These videos will advocate for conservation issues in coordination with ILI, IBCC and our partners’ strategic priorities, but are told from the individual Storyteller’s perspective.

Early June:  Kick-off Session on Writing, Filming, Editing and More

The group of three to five storytellers will function as cohort, learning with and from each other. This will kickoff with an in-person training (location TBD) during the week of June 3rd. Storytellers will be provided with travel and accommodations, sessions on writing, filming, editing and other technical trainings. And they will also be provided with a video creation kit, based on an iPad, that is theirs to keep when the program concludes.

Storytellers will choose from a list of story prompts - starting points that provide some parameters for the project - and then spend the summer months creating two advocacy videos. Storytellers will receive a stipend of $500 per completed video.

Summer 2019:  Filming and Ongoing Training

During the process, we’ll conduct additional trainings and encourage collaboration via videochat or phone check-ins. When feasible, we’ll also set up panel discussions and Q and As for the Storytellers to participate in remotely. This would feature both Indigenous filmmakers and other creatives, and Indigenous and conservation leaders with political and advocacy backgrounds.

At the end of the program our Storytellers will be armed with equipment, training, a portfolio and additional professional connections. Our hope is that they will continue to be advocates for the issues they care about using their digital storytelling skills, whether collaborating again with our campaign or launching their own.

Who Should Apply

We are looking for Storytellers from Indigenous communities in diverse geographic regions.

• Strong interest in video, photography, digital storytelling, or communications is essential. Previous experience is not required.

• Available for training during the week of June 3rd

• Available for filming and editing in June/July and/or August

• Equipment will be provided, but access to Wifi connection a must.

How to Apply

Fill out the form below to apply. Applicants will be notified of acceptance by early May.

Questions? Email Jordan Melograna at jordan@blockbyblockcreative.com

Deadline is May 10th, 2019