Introduction

In an increasingly digital world, the power to share personal narratives and compelling messages online has become an indispensable tool for gender advocacy. Traditional forms of activism are being amplified and transformed by digital platforms, offering unprecedented opportunities to reach broader audiences, build global solidarity, and influence public opinion on critical gender equality issues. However, effectively harnessing this potential requires more than just access to technology; it demands strategic understanding of storytelling techniques, ethical considerations, and how to navigate online spaces for maximum impact. By transforming complex gender issues into relatable human stories, digital storytelling can break through information overload, challenge deeply ingrained stereotypes, and mobilize individuals and communities to take action for a more just and equitable world. This essential training course focuses on Digital Storytelling for Gender Advocacy, equipping participants to craft powerful narratives that drive social change.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to equip gender advocates, human rights defenders, communication professionals, activists, and civil society organizations with the theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary to utilize digital storytelling for gender advocacy. Participants will gain a deep understanding of storytelling principles, learn how to ethically collect and craft compelling narratives, and explore various digital tools and platforms for effective dissemination. The course will delve into topics such as visual storytelling, audio narratives, social media strategies, ethical considerations in sharing personal stories, and measuring the impact of digital advocacy. By mastering the principles and methodologies of Digital Storytelling for Gender Advocacy, participants will be empowered to amplify marginalized voices, challenge discriminatory norms, and build powerful online movements for gender equality.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Gender Equality Advocates and Activists
• Human Rights Defenders
• Communication Professionals (NGOs, CSOs, Public Sector)
• Social Media Managers and Digital Strategists
• Community Organizers
• Journalists and aspiring documentary filmmakers
• Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists interested in qualitative data
• Civil Society Organization Staff
• Youth Leaders and Influencers

Course Objectives

• Understand the power of digital storytelling as a tool for gender advocacy.
• Learn to identify and craft compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences.
• Acquire skills in using various digital tools and platforms for storytelling (video, audio, text, images).
• Comprehend the ethical considerations and safeguarding practices in collecting and sharing personal stories.
• Develop strategies for maximizing reach and engagement on social media and other digital channels.
• Explore methods for measuring the impact of digital storytelling campaigns.
• Understand how to challenge gender stereotypes and biases through narrative.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with online advocacy and digital security.
• Examine successful case studies of digital storytelling for gender justice.
• Develop a practical digital storytelling project outline for their advocacy work.
• Enhance critical thinking skills for effective and ethical online communication.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Digital Storytelling for Advocacy

• Defining digital storytelling: concepts, forms, and purpose.
• The power of narrative in influencing attitudes and behaviors.
• Why digital storytelling is crucial for gender advocacy in the current landscape.
• Examples of impactful digital stories for social change.
• Understanding the advocacy cycle and where storytelling fits in.

Module 2: Identifying and Crafting Compelling Narratives

• The elements of a powerful story: characters, plot, conflict, resolution, message.
• How to identify untold stories and unheard voices on gender issues.
• Story circles and participatory approaches to narrative collection.
• Structuring your story for maximum emotional and intellectual impact.
• Developing a clear call to action within your narrative.

Module 3: Ethical Considerations and Safeguarding

• Prioritizing the safety and well-being of storytellers and participants.
• Informed consent: ensuring voluntary, informed, and ongoing consent.
• Privacy and confidentiality: anonymization and pseudonymization.
• Do No Harm principle in storytelling, especially for sensitive topics (e.g., GBV).
• Managing expectations and preventing re-traumatization.

Module 4: Visual Storytelling: Images and Video

• Basics of visual composition and photography for impact.
• Using smartphones and basic equipment for video production.
• Interview techniques for video narratives.
• Simple video editing tools and principles (e.g., shot selection, pacing).
• Best practices for visual storytelling on different platforms.

Module 5: Audio Storytelling: Podcasts and Radio Features

• The power of sound: voice, music, and sound effects.
• Planning and scripting audio narratives.
• Basic audio recording techniques using accessible tools.
• Introduction to audio editing software.
• Distributing audio stories through podcasts and online platforms.

Module 6: Text-Based Digital Storytelling and Blogs

• Crafting compelling written narratives for online platforms.
• The art of blogging for advocacy: structure, tone, and audience engagement.
• Using personal essays, opinion pieces, and short narratives.
• Incorporating calls to action and links to resources.
• Optimizing text for search engines and readability.

Module 7: Social Media Strategy for Story Dissemination

• Understanding different social media platforms and their strengths for storytelling (Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok).
• Developing a social media content calendar for advocacy campaigns.
• Hashtag strategies and audience targeting.
• Engaging with comments, shares, and online communities.
• Building a consistent brand voice for your advocacy.

Module 8: Measuring Impact and Digital Security

• Defining metrics for digital storytelling success (e.g., reach, engagement, attitude change).
• Basic analytics tools for tracking performance.
• Ethical considerations in data collection and reporting on impact.
• Digital security basics for advocates: password management, phishing, secure communication.
• Mitigating risks of online backlash and harassment.

Module 9: Advanced Topics and Future Trends

• Interactive storytelling and transmedia approaches.
• Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in advocacy.
• Leveraging AI tools for content creation and analysis (ethical considerations).
• Building global advocacy networks through digital storytelling.
• Developing a long-term strategy for sustained digital advocacy.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training