U.S Consulate holds two-day "Vlogging" workshop in Kolkata

Christoph A Geieler, a filmmaker and musician by profession from Los Angeles along with his teaching assistant partner Anouschka Dap, was present at the event to groom the participants.

The workshop aimed to edify the participants to produce one-minute video by making the best use of the technology and raising awareness on social and gender issues to reach out to the targeted audiences.  

Vlogging is the fastest way to share stories and messages that needs people’s attention.

Speaking at the event Geieler, founder of the One Minute Academy, said, “We live in an age where communications is quickly transformed by videos.  One has to know the effective use of technology and share their meaningful stories in a professional way.”

“The participants can narrate their stories with the help of advanced technology and communications and raise awareness among the people who are looking and demanding for it,” he added.

When asked if Vlogging would help to combat human trafficking, Geieler told IBNS that there are many stigmas of trafficking and lot of sensationalism related to these issues. 

 

He said trafficking is not just related to women but also with people of different ages and through Vlogging if these stories are told at the right place, it will give visibility to important issues and will help to improve situations that are very serious and definitely needs our support.

Speaking on the bilateral ties between India-U.S, Christoph said, “Primary focus of this workshop is to promote mutual understandings and we are here to bring professional techniques and best practices. The people to people diplomacy helps to bridge trust so that when we get back to our country and share our experience and also what we have learnt.”

Anouschka Dap, videographer and teacher for the One Minute Academy, said, “I think this workshop gives a perfect platform for young journalists. They capture lots of stories and we teach them how to make these stories compelling. Video is a great way to support the writing skills.”  

The participants of this two day workshop included NGO leaders, journalists, artists and also students from different academic backgrounds.

Natasha Claire Fernandes, a participant, also associated with an NGO International Justice Mission (IJM), said, “Christoph and Anouschka are great teachers. I think Vlogging can be a powerful tool to promote awareness on terrible issues like human trafficking which will result in increased sensitivity among the community and it’s a perfect way to raise awareness among people.”

The participates will also be awarded certificate at American Centre after the two- day workshop.


(Reporting by Liza Gomes)