Expanding businesses through documentaries

USP Journalism student Telstar Jimmy, second from left, during a group exercise in Suva. Picture: SUPPLIED

By WANSOLWARA STAFF

JOURNALISM students at The University of the South Pacific were recently part of a week-long workshop to help local entrepreneurs expand their business reach through the media organised by the US Embassy and Rise Up International in Suva.

The documentary-making workshop was part of a cultural envoy outreach program between the embassy and the non-profit organization, whose aim focuses on building communities through music and art.

Participants included women entrepreneurs, representatives from media organisations and photographers.

USP student journalist Telstar Jimmy, second from right, jots down useful notes during a practical exercise. Picture: SUPPLIED

Sharing her experience, final year journalism student Telstar Jimmy said the workshop not only allowed them to enhance their skills in documentary film-making but also helped build connections and expand networks.

She said the workshop focused on the effective use of the media to promote businesses. This included lessons about visual and social media marketing.

“We learned a lot from the facilitators and co-ordinators as well as our fellow participants, who had some expertise and knowledge to share with the rest of the group,” Jimmy said.

Participants were taught skills such as conducting video interviews, using cutaways and still images to create effective documentaries that would empower entrepreneurs and women in business.

The workshop was co-ordinated by documentary filmmaker Jesse Roberts, whose focus was on social and intercultural issues, and American photographer, videographer and businesswoman Ashley Brehm.

Brehm also teaches business development classes for photographers and specialises in social media marketing.

The workshop was held from March 12-16 at the US Embassy and The Fiji Club in Suva.