Add an eventSessions at SXSW Interactive 2011 about Africa on Monday 14th March
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This is Our Generation: WeOwnTV Sierra Leone
by Banker White
In the wake of a destructive 10-year civil war, Sierra Leone is faced with a generation who has lost their families, history and identity–their stories. In this session, Banker White will share how WeOwnTV, a multimedia educational project, is focusing specifically on the artistic and professional development of the youth in Sierra Leone.
“WeOwnTV” roughly translates into Sierra Leone’s native language, Krio, as “Our Own TV.” Independent media and a thriving artistic culture are important cornerstones for any society to build a peaceful future. Encouraging young people in Sierra Leone to take the lead in their own development and creative exploration is paramount to building a culture of creativity and professionalism from inside the country itself.
Banker will share highlights of the WeOwnTV curriculum which uniquely focuses on community engagement, while balancing intensive film production and computer skills training with classes on storytelling and self-expression. Ongoing mentorship along with technical assistance, multi-channel distribution and the promotion of finished work enables young adults to share their stories and ideas with the world. The lessons taught and revealed by the young Sierra Leoneans will be appreciated by filmmakers of all levels.
LEVEL: Intermediate