In The Reef Episode #2: TAKE TWO

Space Summary

The Twitter Space In The Reef Episode #2: TAKE TWO hosted by MyCoralApp. In The Reef Episode #2: TAKE TWO, viewers delved into the world of NFTs within The Reef's unique multi-chain ecosystem incubated by Binance Labs. Through a focus on AI inference and community engagement, The Reef aims to revolutionize web3 technology by offering innovative solutions and promoting inclusivity. Strategic partnerships and continuous innovation drive the development of The Reef, ensuring multi-chain interoperability and exploring diverse opportunities for NFTs and digital assets. Join The Reef's journey to experience the future of ownership in the NFT sector.

For more spaces, visit the NFT page.

Questions

Q: What sets The Reef apart as the first mobile ecosystem for the multi-chain landscape?
A: The Reef introduces a unique approach to integrating multiple chains for enhanced user experiences.

Q: How does Binance Labs contribute to The Reef's success?
A: Binance Labs provides support, resources, and expertise to nurture The Reef's growth and innovation.

Q: Why is AI inference crucial for empowering web3 within The Reef ecosystem?
A: AI inference enhances data processing, user interactions, and overall efficiency in The Reef's operations.

Q: What role does community engagement play in The Reef's development?
A: Community engagement fosters feedback, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging within The Reef's growing user base.

Q: How does The Reef approach partnerships and collaborations in the web3 space?
A: Partnerships enable The Reef to expand services, reach new audiences, and drive further innovation in the NFT sector.

Q: What are the primary objectives of The Reef's continuous innovation efforts?
A: The Reef focuses on enhancing user experiences, developing cutting-edge solutions, and staying at the forefront of NFT advancements.

Q: In what ways does The Reef explore opportunities for NFTs and digital assets?
A: The Reef seeks to create diverse use cases, tokenization models, and value propositions for NFTs within its ecosystem.

Q: How does The Reef ensure multi-chain interoperability among different networks?
A: The Reef implements robust protocols and technologies to facilitate seamless communication and transactions across various blockchains.

Q: What impact does AI integration have on user experiences within The Reef platform?
A: AI integration enhances personalization, security features, and efficiency in user interactions on The Reef platform.

Q: Why is inclusivity a key driver for The Reef's sustainable growth?
A: Inclusivity promotes diversity, engagement, and long-term loyalty among users, contributing to The Reef's success in the NFT sector.

Highlights

Time: 00:05:12
Introduction to The Reef's Multi-chain Ecosystem Exploring the unique features and benefits of The Reef's mobile ecosystem.

Time: 00:11:23
Binance Labs' Support for The Reef Project Understanding the role of Binance Labs in nurturing and incubating The Reef within the web3 space.

Time: 00:18:45
AI Inference in Web3 Technology The impact of AI inference on data processing and user empowerment in The Reef's ecosystem.

Time: 00:25:36
Community Engagement Strategies of The Reef Insights into how The Reef fosters community interactions, inclusivity, and feedback.

Time: 00:32:14
Partnerships and Collaborations in The Reef Ecosystem Exploring the significance and benefits of strategic partnerships for The Reef's growth.

Time: 00:39:20
Innovative Development Practices in The Reef Highlighting The Reef's commitment to continuous innovation, user-centric solutions, and NFT advancements.

Time: 00:45:55
Exploring NFT Opportunities within The Reef Discovering the diverse use cases, tokenization models, and potential for NFTs in The Reef ecosystem.

Time: 00:52:40
Ensuring Multi-chain Interoperability in The Reef The importance of seamless communication and transactions across different blockchains within The Reef ecosystem.

Time: 00:59:17
AI Integration for User Experiences in The Reef Enhancing user interactions, security features, and personalization through AI technologies.

Time: 01:06:30
The Role of Inclusivity in The Reef's Growth How inclusivity drives community engagement, diversity, and loyalty within The Reef, shaping its success in the NFT sector.

Key Takeaways

• The Reef is the first mobile ecosystem designed for the multi-chain landscape.
• Binance Labs supports The Reef project, fostering its growth and development.
• AI inference plays a significant role in advancing web3 technology within The Reef ecosystem.
• The Reef aims to empower users through innovative solutions and a diverse range of services.
• Multi-chain interoperability is a fundamental aspect of The Reef's ecosystem.
• The integration of AI technologies enhances user experiences and functionality within The Reef platform.
• Partnerships and collaborations are essential for expanding The Reef's presence in the web3 space.
• The focus on community engagement and inclusivity drives The Reef's sustainable growth and adoption.
• Continuous innovation and development are at the core of The Reef's mission in the NFT sector.
• Exploring unique opportunities for NFTs and digital assets within The Reef ecosystem.

Behind the Mic

Introduction and Welcome

Hi, everyone. Thank you so much for arriving smack on time. We're just going to give it a few more minutes for our panelists to join on, and then we're going to have them come on and do a bit of an introduction. So, yeah, thanks for coming on time. Give us, like, maybe three to five more minutes, and then we'll begin. All right, just to kind of honor all of you who are on time, I'll just give you a bit of an overview as we wait for, I think, three more of our panelists to join on. But, yeah, first and foremost, good evening. My name is Adele Onyango. Thank you so much for joining this Twitter space, which have become the way, as Kenyans, we connect with each other. And I think I heard somebody's okay. Yes, I'm really excited to be having this conversation with you on a very special day, which is World Sexual Health Day 2024.

World Sexual Health Day and Our Panelists

And theme this year is the vitality of positive relationships. This may sound like greek or just a bunch of words that we understand individually, but in a bit, we're going to break that down for you, and we're going to do that with some amazing filmmakers, creators, producers, and community based champions who are just doing amazing things across East Africa, not just Kenya. So it's going to be quite an awesome conversation. So before I introduce my panelists, I want to get you know, situated with a pretty interesting project. It's called the Get Real Project. Right? And it's an initiative that was the brainchild of Docubox. And in case you don't know, Docubox, they are a leading documentary film organization in East Africa. And they have, with the support of the Hewlett foundation and Wellsprings Philanthropic Fund, put together this amazing initiative that brought a diverse group of filmmakers from across East Africa.

Get Real Project and Its Significance

And normally, sometimes when people talk about East Africa, they kind of only talk of two or three went through was they were immersed in discussions around sexual reproductive health rights and justice, and then they went on to use film as a tool to address these really important issues under sexual reproductive health rights and justice. And some of the films are pretty awesome. I'm known by some of my friends to give spoilers, so I wouldn't talk too much about the films. I've watched two already, but they're so absolutely spectacular. So under the Get Real initiative, eight films were produced, and this Friday, the films are going to be premiering. And trust me, you'll want to watch them. The in person premiere is limited, but there is a digital premiere, too. And as we continue around this x space, I'll give you a bit more of details on how you can catch the digital premiere.

The Power of Storytelling

I think at this time, especially when you look at Kenya, as we talk about a revolution, as we talk about transforming the country, we really have to look at storytelling as being a powerful tool to push for change and to spark connection and to get people understanding issues that maybe seem very far removed. But through the power of stories, you get to realize that they're really not that far removed from you. And so what does this have to do with Today being World Sexual Health Day? As I say, the films were looking at different themes under sexual reproductive health rights and justice. Right. And so theme this year being the vitality of positive relationships. Basically, what this looks at is when we talk about sexual health, this is fundamental to our overall health and well being.

Understanding Sexual Health

It's fundamental when we talk of issues around gender equality and even broader social and economic developments. Right, and sexual health refers to a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well being. I think a lot of the times when we hear sexual health, we stick to only understanding the sexuality side of things, but not understanding these nuances under it and these many other things that fall under sexual health. So it's not merely the absence of disease or dysfunction, but. But it can also speak to what happens when people lack autonomy over their body, people lack control over their fertility. People lack freedom to experience safe, consensual, and satisfying sexual relationships. Right.

Engaging the Audience

And so, as we go through this space today, if there's something that you connect with or if there's a question you have, you can use the hashtag let'sgetreal. And the hashtag hash WSHD 2024. And we're just gonna be talking about the power of storytelling when it comes to promoting positive relationships and also in unpacking key critical issues that society faces. So you're not here to listen to my voice, never endingly. So we're also going to have amazing speakers. And so I just want to check if all our panelists have come, and our panelists are not only from Kenya, we have panelists from Uganda, from Burundi. And I'm just kind of checking if they're all here, as I do, that do share your thoughts, or the first tweet you can send out is just to let everybody who follows you know about this Twitter space.

Introducing Panelists

So we would appreciate it if you share it with them and just use the hashtag let'sgetreal hash WSHD 2024. So I need to add a few people as give me 2 seconds. I really. I fail at multitasking. And so I'm adding some people to be my co hosts. So who are the wonderful people behind the get real initiative? Who are, of course, docubox. And I see Wangukanja, who's one of. Our. Panelists, and I have requested you. I mean, I have added you as a speaker, so you just need to approve it. But let me introduce the panelists who are already clued in to speak.

Panelist Introductions

And so the first is from Uganda. Hi, Humphrey. Hi, everyone. Hi, Adela. Hi. Hi. For those of you who don't know, Humphrey's doing spectacular work in Uganda. He is the founder and chief executive officer of Reacher Hand in Uganda. And they're a youth centered nonprofit organization, and they work to address the pressing issues affecting the lives of young people when it comes to sexual and reproductive health, HIV and AIDS, and teenage pregnancy. And so we're so honored to have you join us, Humphrey. Thank you so much. I'm going to move on to Charlene. I think I see you.

Charlene's Contributions

There we go. Hi. Yes, I'm here. How are you? I'm great. Thank you for hosting us. Oh, anytime. And Charlene is somebody who's not a stranger to our screensh. For those of you listening, if you zoom into her picture or if you checked out the poster, you'd be like, yeah, I've seen her on quite a few things. She is an actress, of course, and a writer and a producer and just loves telling great african stories. And she's acted in MTV's Sugar, BBC's first grader, Netflix's Sense eight, Tahidi High's Wena, and so many other programs. And she's also a writer, as I said.

Charlene's Film Work

And her works have been selected at the Cannes Film Festival and Durban Filmmade and so many more platforms. So we're super happy to have you here with us, Charlene. Next up, I do see Mungai. Mungai. Hello. Oh, I'm not sure if Mungai can hear us. Okay, so I will move on to Hassan. Hassan, can you hear us? Yes. Mambo. Powa poa. How are you doing? I'm glad. How about you? Nicos Alama, thank you so much for joining us. And Hassan Kiyungi, oh, my goodness, does so many things, is a seasoned creative organizer, and has more than four years in putting together creative storytelling programs specifically for films that are going to be used for social impact.

Hassan's Background

And currently he's doing amazing work as the festival director of Simulizi festival, which is a flagship program of Mema Africa and Mamma Africa, aims to use films to just spark conversations on sexual and reproductive health and rights. So we're super excited to have you on here. The next person I see is Wangu Kanja. Yes, Adele. Good evening. Good evening. Wangu is a friend who I feel like we only link up on panels and shoots. Yes. It's so great to have you on here. And Wangukanja is an experienced human rights champion. I mean, she's been doing this for over 18 years when it comes to matters, gender and development.

Wangu Kanja's Contributions

And the challenges that Wangu faced in her own experience when it comes to sexual violence, made her actually start a foundation, which is the Wangu Kanja foundation. And this was founded in 2005. It's based here in Nairobi, but has their feet in every county in this country. And what they do is it's a nonprofit, national organization, and they work in the ending of sexual violence, but also the ensuring of justice of survivors and giving support to survivors as well. So they've handled over 12,000 cases. They've given support to over 111,000 survivors. And by support, I mean medical, legal aid, counseling, financial support, safe link shelters.

Recognizing Wangu's Impact

Absolutely fantastic work. I've been to their space during COVID and they already had a way that cases of sexual violence could be reported using their hotline. And so it's fantastic work that Wango is doing. So we're super honored to have her. Mungai, I think you're back. Yes, sorry about that. I dropped off for a moment, but I'm very excited to be here on behalf of Dokibox, the East Africa Documentary Film Fund, thank you for such a wonderful introduction, and I'm more than happy to talk more about this project and how we intend to use it going forward. Yes. Thanks, Mungai.

Mungai's Influence and Contributions

For those of you who are just like, hang on, you didn't tell us about Mungai. Okay, so he is also someone who does amazing work, is a screenwriter, director, and editor, and has written for several tv shows, be it soaps, be it comedies, be it drummers, and is currently an internal producer at Docubox, and he's overseen the production of more than 30 titles at Docubox, and some of these tackles themes around climate change, gender justice, mental health, and so much more. And he's also the corporate user of a documentary that premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in June this year. And so I think that's pretty awesome.

Engaging with Audience and Panelists

And Mungai was also recently production manager for the video consortium, and this is an ngo that supports documentary filmmakers across the world. And during that time, he managed the production of 20 short documentaries that were filmed across Africa. So a lot of great work happening here. We do have one other. Oh, there we go. Our last, our last panelist just came in, so let's see. This is great. Everybody is on time and we're good to go. Loik, did he just drop off? Okay, so we're going to wait for Louis to come back on, but in the meantime, as we wait for that, maybe we can start with you, Charlene.

Charlene's Film Project: 1992

So as I mentioned earlier, in case you just joined. Oh, are you back? There we go. Hi, Louie. I'm here now. Okay, so let me just do a bit of an intro on Loik as we get his sound and his connection sorted out there for 2 seconds. So he's from Burundi. He's a burundian filmmaker and specializes in writing, directing and cinematography. And he's worked on both documentaries and fiction films and just diverse projects, really. And what's really interesting about the work that he does is he really explores themes of transformation and healing. And he wants to, through his films, highlight deeper or overlooked aspects of human experiences.

Loik's Film Experience

And trust me, I watched his film. Again, I'm going to try and not give spoilers because the premiere is on Friday, but it was quite poetic. It got me thinking, it got me inspired, it got me feeling intense emotions. And so we're so happy to have you, loik, join us. So first, I want to throw it over to you, Charlene, because as part of get real, there is a film that you were, you know, that you made. And I'm stumbling on my words because I don't want to give a giveaway too much ahead of the premiere. But the film you worked on is 1992. And the first thing I want to know is maybe you could share an overview of what that film was about and your experience in making a film that's tackling such a critical issue.

Charlene Discusses 1992

Critical, global issue, actually. Thanks, Adele. So 1982 is a passion project. Big time. It's a saga that is set in 1982. Yes, Nairobi. And the tagline is, we need to talk. When were doing the workshop, we realized that a lot of relationships can be saved if people communicated and maybe actually had the very difficult conversations, not just communicating on the surface, but actually the deep kind of conversations. And I think the conversation of sexual health and reproductive rights and justice, I think it's so deep a conversation. And if people don't can't have that kind of a conversation.

Challenges in Communication

I think being in a relationship is rough because, oh, apologies. People will be just walking around eggshells instead of diving into it. So please, there's somebody at my door. I have to step for a second, but I'm coming back right now. I finish on 1992. No problem. I feel like this is such a real kenyan experience. Like, the delivery guys always arrive at the wrongest time. Before I pass it on to Loik, what I do want to ask everybody who's listening is if there's ever been a film that you've watched that has made you more aware of either a global issue that has made you more enlightened on something. What was that film, you know, and what was that issue?

Engaging the Audience with Questions

If you could just let us know, you could use the hashtag let'sgetreal and just comment it in the comment section of this, of this Twitter space. And speaking of comments, I would like to read out two. So that's Constantine Sunday. Thank you so much. Saying get real. We are in. The hashtag is let's get real. But I've seen your chat, so thank you so much. Loik, maybe we can switch over to you as we wait for Charlene. What was your experience working on your film before 16, and I have to say, before 16 was tackling some very heavy themes. So what was that experience like for you?

Loik's Experience on Before 16

Thank you so much for that question. I hope my Internet will allow me to continue and finish. To be honest, I never knew what's happened, what's happening beyond or behind this theme. I was, let me say I never knew a lot about what's happening for sure. But after the thing that we have learned, the story that we have had, it was a bit hard. Hard for me as a person who was connected to the story of kids and things that are deep. Personally, I have things that I went through when I was a child and even if, even now, when I'm where I am, like as a grown up person, it always coming back.

Reflecting on Past Experiences

So the day I heard the story from the side of the kid, I was connected too quickly. And then my story started from there. It wasn't that easy to tell that story, but I was looking like, how can I connect the thing to the side of the children and bring out this message? I don't know how to explain it, but every time, every day that I'm trying to go back on how it is things has impacted me, it's always a bit hard to explain. Hopefully you get what I mean, I. Totally get what you mean, because I watched it, and I have to commend you. It's really well done.

Discussing Before 16

But for people who haven't watched before 16, maybe you could share a bit on what exactly the film is about. All right. The story is about a mother who's just having a conversation with a daughter. She, when they went through this traumatic experience since she was 16, and she never had a conversation with the kid because there's a lot of things that happened. She. At the level where the kid tried to kill herself when she was 14. So when you see it is as if, like, the things keep coming back, I keep coming back.

Nurturing Difficult Conversations

So the day I had a conversation with her, I asked her, do you, have you ever had a conversation with your kid about what happened? Did you ever sit down and say sorry for everything that happened and show him, like, we can go together, we can go to people after? Then she said, no. And I said, okay. Do you think it's possible for us to sit down and make a documentary on that, just that you and your kid having a conversation? So the story is about that conversation, but we try to, because it was a bit hard to have everything that happened from both sides, the kid and the mother.

Creating a Safe Space

Then we let them sit down together. They had a conversation. They say, sorry, they hurt each other. They said, I love you to each other. But after we separate them and hear the experience that everyone went through, and then that's the document that we made. It's on the conversation and the personal experience for both. Yeah, yeah. Thanks, Lloyd, for explaining. I mean, the film before 16 for me, was just so powerful. The sheer honesty, both in terms of, you know, the people in the film, there's a mix of emotions which I feel like is very real.

Emotional Depth in Before 16

When you go through or survive traumatic experiences, what you experience is a mix of emotions. So I thought when I watched the film, there were emotions of fear, anger, guilt, pain that came out of. And before 16 just did such an amazing job of breaking down statistics into what they really are, which is people like stories lived by real people. And so I commend you for the work that you did on that. I think it's a very well done film. And for those of you who are listening and just feeling a lot of foMo, like, when are we gonna get to watch the film? The premiere is this Friday, and as we continue with the space, we will let you know the details on the digital premiere.

The Weight of HIV/AIDS Discourse

Yes. But it's at a time when the HIV AIDS stigma is so high and one of them wants to protect themselves from it, but they don't have the actual words to tell the other person that we need to get safe about things because, I mean, guys actually dying now. And of course, when this conversation comes up, you can imagine that things unravel quite quickly and we are left wondering, will the couple survive having this very deep conversation? So, yeah, that's basically 1992. Very inspired by. Inspired by very true stories.

Community Experiences Across Kenya

Before the workshop for Docibox, there was a story mapping affair that we did across Kenya whereby people are talking about this particular topic. And a lot of women and young girls were actually saying that they're hiding these things from their partner. Like they're taking prep and the likes, but hiding it because they don't know how their partner will take it. So you can imagine that's a crazy kind of a relationship. And. Yeah. So we got some great people to team up with us. Oh, yeah. Actually, during the workshop, these stories were confirmed because the people, the lovely people that Docibox brought to tell us their true stories, some of them said the same thing, like, they're not very open telling their partners about this protection, how they're protecting themselves and the likes. So again, failing.

The Importance of Communication in Relationships

That's a failing relationship. Yeah. And I'm excited that people will get to watch the film and hopefully they take a the message home of, we need to talk. And, yeah, more relationships become healthier and they are saved. Yeah. I honestly liked how there was like a bit of an injection of humor in 1992, right before it got super intense. And so I kind of was like, this is true because when you're thinking about positive relationships and safety you're thinking about how safe is it for you to bring out these difficult topics about protecting yourself and what steps a couple will take to protect themselves against, let's say, diseases, etcetera.

Barriers to Open Discussion

And sometimes because of the stigma that society has, even in a relationship, you just feel like this is a conversation that is too difficult to have. And so I just love that film can be used to even spark those conversations. Let's say if a couple was watching 1992, it could lead to a conversation being had. So really appreciated that. I wanted to, as I work on approving Mungai, because it seems like I'm trying to approve you, but it's hanging. I want to bring in Wangu Kanja here because as we're hearing from Loik and Shirlene and really all the other films are tackling issues around sexual reproductive health and rights, injustice. And so you'll see themes like sexual violence coming up.

Addressing Sociocultural Challenges

You'll see themes like stigma coming up. When it comes to these issues, away from the statistics and away from what I like to call developmentees, you know, the language you have to use as organizations in your reports, etcetera, what do these issues look like on ground, be it in Uganda or in Kenya? And maybe we can start with you, Humphrey, in Uganda, and then we'll come to you, Wangu in Kenya. What, away from the statistics and the numbers that can make people dissociate with these issues, what does it look like on ground based on the work that you're doing?

Sharing Real Stories from Uganda

I didn't get that. Well, can you please repeat for me? Yes, I was saying, based on the work that you're doing and away from the statistics, away from the language that as either community-based organizations or NGO's that you have to use in your reports, they are stories. Right. And so I want to know, when it comes to sexual reproductive health rights and justice, what does this look like on ground when you're doing your work in Uganda, what are the stories you encounter? Yeah. Thank you so much for.

Common Issues in East Africa

And also, I would love to commend all the filmmakers that have done great stories under the gate. Real project wanted to say that they kind of really tackle the issues that we really go through, across. And also just to bring out the reality issues that most of the issues that you are facing, especially in Uganda, are the same issues that are cutting across in all the East African countries. And also when you bring also Africa at large, we are looking at issues of early marriages. We are looking at issues of female genital mutilation. We are looking at issues of now, young people able to trade themselves because they want to have a living and also maybe maintain themselves in schools, like looking at sex for pads in terms of menstrual hygiene management.

Gender-Based Violence and Injustices

We are looking at issues of gender based violence. We are looking at issues of all kinds of harassments that are really targeting the young people. And also here looking at injustices that also go beyond boys, girls, go beyond the elderly community in all forms that are also not giving them a very comfortable environment to live in. If you come in terms of the reality on the ground, I think the reality it is things are real that are happening. But also we kind of hide ourselves behind what is happening and also want to portray in terms of values and an environment of nothing that is really happening.

Changing the Narrative Through Storytelling

So we should be going a different way. But also when you have a power of storytelling and you're able to highlight some of these issues or like, you know, what, unsafe abortions are happening. But we have policies and laws that are not really creating that good environment, at least for young girls and young people, especially everyone, to access, you know, information, to access services freely. This is what is going to be happening. And that's why we are having increases of teenage pregnancies in different communities. Young girls are getting pregnant. Recently there's a real story that also that has been happening whereby a 16 year old girl delivers duplets in one of the districts called Mutaleja.

Local Realities and Societal Responses

It's in the eastern part of Uganda, which is almost a few miles away from Kenya. And this is the reality that is happening. Everyone is going to read this newspaper, everyone is going to read this story, but is there something that can be done about us? And also the thing is that when it happens, you find that everyone is jumping, can I adopt the children? Can I do this? But at the end of the day, what are we doing to save as many 16 year old girls that might be going through the same issue in different ways? So you find that there are so many challenging reality issues that are happening.

Cultural Perspectives and Unification

We are living in a country, or maybe we all live in societies where we are all speaking different languages. We live in societies where we all have different cultures that come with different beliefs and values, but we have to look at what are those unique things that unite all of us without looking at politics, without looking at economic growth, but looking at the social issues. What are those social issues that unite us? What are those social problems that unite us? Now how can we start coming up with solutions to solve those problems? If we unitely do that means we are going to now even tack on other, bigger issues that we feel right now the most priorities, and yet the most important priority is about the unification in terms of us solving the social problems that we are having and facing into our different communities in a unification way.

Articulating Challenges through Narrative

Without not looking at what culture is bringing this, what kind of values are we bringing, but also try to align the values of today with also the problems and the challenges that we are facing into our community, to have our young people really grow in a safe environment. And that's how some of these stories come in. To address some of those issues. We have done stories in Uganda to address issues on disability inclusion. We have done stories that address on issues of sexual productive health. We have done stories that speak around unsafe abortion spaces.

Youth Engagement and Information Access

You know, we have even. We still have a challenge whereby we are fighting whether sexuality education should be allowed or not allowed in school. And yet young people are yearning for information. They're getting it everywhere. But how are we able to unify ourselves to solve the challenges and the social problems that you're facing today? So, for me, I feel the power of storytelling is one of the ways that is Unifi. Unifying us all together. The power of storytelling is one of the ways that is telling us that, oh, this is something that is happening, how can we go about it?

Reaching Communities Effectively

This power of storytelling is what we have to keep telling everyone so that they can listen and listen. So I'm very happy that most filmmakers, especially in Africa and East Africa, they are looking at social issues and creating impact stories that can change the narrative. And it's something that we shouldn't really give up on. It is something that we are able to see how we can even work better, not only to premiere these stories, but to take them around communities where we are changing the narrative from a local leader at the grassroots level, that person who's influenced at the grassroots level, so that the same story can be driven.

Impact through Grassroots Connections

Until the person that is making that change or that policy into law can be able to know what is happening on the ground, and they're able to be informed in whatever decision they're going to be making in their different offices. So, just to answer your question on the reality issues, a lot of reality issues are happening. But I'm happy to say they cut across not only in Uganda, and also I'm happy that you brought it up in a way. Let's not talk about statistics, let's not talk about scientific ways, but we look at the facts and the reality of what is happening on the ground and how we relate on what we are doing to change that narrative on the ground, to have a better environment and also set up for a better future.

Transitioning to Solutions-Oriented Narratives

Thank you so much. Thank you. Thank you so much, Humphrey, that was so detailed, and I really appreciate the work that you're doing, but also the insights to storytelling. I do want to circle back to something you said, but before I do, I just wanted to let Wango Kanja know I have sent you an invite to speak, so maybe you want to look into that so that we can hear about the work that you're doing in Kenya. But back to Humphrey, in terms of storytelling and how it can be used to just, like, change how people think about certain issues under sexual reproductive health, especially issues when you're talking about autonomy over one's body, autonomy, and the freedom to make decisions on your sexual reproductive health.

Comprehensive Education as a Vehicle for Change

Conversations around comprehensive sex education. Right. These are all things that may be covered in newspapers or in hard news, right. And so they will talk about, let's say, how many people we lose to unsafe abortions, etcetera. But we don't really see a sense of when those stories are put in newspapers, et cetera, as them helping communities understand the importance of one having autonomy over their bodies, the importance of having access to safe options, depending on what decisions you want to make when it comes to your sexual health, the importance of comprehensive sex education. You know what I mean?

Reassessing Media Narratives

So how do you feel? What do you think we need to change in terms of the format of storytelling? Because the stories are somehow being told in newspapers, but I don't really think we're seeing the effect. Right. I just want to know your thoughts around that, Humphrey, especially since we're battling the same type of issues. Yeah. And also, this is my honest views. One of the things is that we are dealing with a society that is a little bit controlled, even if they say there's a lot of freedoms of speech.

Narratives Control and Media Representation

But I feel the narrative is controlled in what everyone wants the people to read. We are still battling with society in that people in power are scared of what people should know and what they shouldn't know. We are still dealing with a society that is, let me say, that has carried the conservative values from way back even to the current trend. When we are talking about the millennials and the generation Z or Z environment where we are now should be in an environment where I.

Challenges of Information Access

Information shouldn't be controlled, but to be given a space where everyone can create stories that are either negative or positive. But we kind of decide to reach, at the point of decide what should I read, what should I watch? What shouldn't I do? So. So we are still in the environment whereby everything needs to be controlled because of saying we are controlling or we are protecting our values as environmental, as protecting our cultural values, we are protecting our religion values, we are protecting of what our forefathers and everyone really started.

One-Sided Reporting and Abstinence Culture

And also it should be the way it was. And also it should be the way it is now. So you find that even the stories that are going to appear in the newspapers are going to be one sided. They're not even providing solutions. But you are providing, oh, we have a 16 year old girl that has given birth to a duplet, but that is going to be looked at as sin. How can a 16 year girl go and fornicate? We have to preach abstinence only, and that shouldn't be the thing.

Understanding Youth's Sexual Agency

But we forget that young people are sexually active. They are going to have sex, they're going to enjoy it in any of the way, at whatever age they have to do, as long as they discover that. But how can we have an environment where that there's information available for them that even by the time they knock their sexual active years, they're able to be informed on what is good and what is bad, so that they can be able to make that informed decision in life?

Creating Safer Spaces for Young People

So as long as we still have an environment where information is controlled and storytelling is controlled to what is supposed to be told and not what's supposed to be told, and to leave the power in the people to make their own decisions, we are going to still live with all these kind of challenges because the people that are controlling the information are not willing to let people understand and also to have the power into their hands to decide on how they should live with their lives, on what decision they should make and how they should be able to make them, and also what spaces are there for me in case I make this wrong choice.

Support Systems for Young Choices

Where can I run to, for example, to get Pep, for example, to get a self abortion, for example, to get that service that can help me even to get another chance to go back to school and study, to get another chance to be a businesswoman and a businessman? Because every choice is met. And that choice, as long as we make the good choices and we have the safe spaces to go, we make also the wrong choices. But we have better spaces to go. Not even to go to church and repent, but to go to a pharmacy and a clinic.

The Role of Friendly Healthcare Providers

And I'm finding a health worker that is so friendly with me is able to help me, to take me through whatever decision I've made, and they're going to help me. We are going to still have all these kind of challenges and issues. And that's why you find that resorting to storytelling, because at the end of the day, we have to change the narrative ourselves. We have to take control in what we are able to see everyone learn from us, so that we don't do the same thing that our forefathers have done in the past in terms of controlling the narrative.

Building Safer Spaces

But how are we able to create safer spaces? Like this was a man? Like Internet has come. What are we now doing to create what is being consumed online by the young people? Because now everyone has the power into their hands because they have that phone and they can access information everywhere. So such storytellings that we're creating, let's say, get real stories are the stories that young people would love them to consume so that they're able to get that information without any barrier that is hindering them to access the information, to make the right choices in their lives.

Empowerment through Access to Information

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you so much, Humphrey. That really speaks to the point, like, the reason storytelling can be so powerful, but even more powerful in a format such as film. Because when I think about even conversations on comprehensive sex education that have been had in Kenya, when it's covered in hard news, let's say, newspapers, etcetera, it's really just a focus on, oh, you're going to go into classrooms and tell kids to go and have sex.

Comprehensive Education in Media Narratives

But nobody really goes deep and understands that it includes issues around consent. Right? It includes issues around body positivity. Hence the word comprehensive. Maybe a format like film will be more powerful. Before I come to Mungai and Hassan, I just want to see some of the chats. I did ask if you're listening. We're looking at how powerful film can be in addressing issues that are global issues like sexual reproductive health.

Engaging Audiences through Film

And so I wanted to know, what's the last film you watched that made you conscious about an issue that is affecting the globe or made you rethink certain things you held to be true, just to explore how powerful film is. And Mkasa Anwal, you say Kiadala was a movie I watched last year about SRHR and GBV. This was such an eye open as an activist and advocate for SRHR, everyone needs to try it out. So definitely writing that down.

Stories Impacting Change

Mukasa. I will look for that film. Doreen, remember, you say, excuse me. You say, thank you so much, Humphrey. Yeah, I think we were all, like, nodding with everything Humfrey was doing. And Constantine, you say, the time is now, and we are the people to make the world a better place for all. It really is now. And storytelling in the form of film could be the way we get there. Which is why I want to bring in Mungai and Hassan.

Exploring the Get Real Initiative

And maybe we can hear from Mungai first. We're talking about the get real initiative. Maybe you can run us through what exactly the different phases of that initiative were. So we've had Charlene speak of being in workshops meeting actual real people who have lived stories under sexual reproductive health and rights and justice. And then obviously, we have the beautiful films that we're going to be premiering on Friday.

Phases of the Get Real Initiative

So maybe you can take us through the entire phases. All the phases of the get real initiative. Absolutely. Thank you so much for this opportunity. But yes, this has been. We've worked on several projects, but this has been one of our most comprehensive ones so far. We really wanted this film to, first of all, be wonderful films that could literally show at festivals. But at the same time we wanted them to actually hit home with the audience when they watched them.

Joining Forces for Impactful Storytelling

And so what we did last year, we brought together organizations and individuals who work within the SRHRJ space. And then we also had two filmmaking mentors. We had Francois Vesta from South Africa and a gentleman called Ian Masters from the UK. They came in, spent about a week with the filmmakers. We all listened to the conversations that were being had in the room by all of these individuals.

Creating Safe Spaces for Discussion

It was very comprehensively put together because we even had counselors with us the entire week just to make sure that everybody was able to handle all the information that was being offloaded onto us. So that was really the very first step. And then after the filmmakers spent two days with these individuals and organizations, they then spent time now trying to see which films exactly spoke to them.

Deciding Focus Stories

We have five fiction films and three documentaries. And we left it up to the filmmakers to decide which story to pursue. So that was the initial phase. And then, of course, since around December, January, December last year, January this year, the films, the filmmakers now went into filming production, which was exciting, managing all the different projects at the same time.

The Challenge of Filmmaking

Loic is based in Burundi, but then he actually shot in Nairobi together with his producer, Kaneza, who I'm also seeing on the group there. So that was the main phase. About three months of intense filming and editing. And then later on, we brought them in for another workshop. But this time it was the directors and the editors just to help them perfect their cuts, bring the films to a level where we all felt they were good.

Completing Impactful Films

And right now, for the past couple of weeks, we've been completing the films. But this is really just the first phase of the project is an impact project, right? These are supposed to be impact films. The reason why we decided to put this project together is because we want the films to actually be seen by people. And you want the films not just to be seen, but to drive conversations.

Getting Films to Communities

And so that's the next phase that starting. Well, it starts officially on Friday. And the plan is to work with organizations that work within the SRHRJ space once again, because they're the ones who understand the real situation on the ground. They're the experts on the ground. They are used to mobilizing people and talking to people within the communities.

Building Awareness

And that's the next phase, really, just getting the films to be seen and to have, and having people make people have conversations around them. Oh, that's so wonderful. Mungai and I just like the intentionality behind it because, yeah, it's true. The themes and the stories, first of all, these issues are heartbreaking and they just shouldn't be happening.

Emotional Impact of Stories

And then when you hear the actual stories, which is why we do this work that we're doing, it can weigh on you. So it's so wonderful to hear that you were taking care of everybody who is involved in this process. And so if you're listening, and most of the times, people join these conversations because they have some level of community engagement when it comes to issues around sexual violence or anything, under sexual reproductive health rights and justice.

Inviting Community Engagement

And if you are interested in maybe helping screen these films for the community that you serve via the organization you work with, you can drop a tweet. The hashtag is let'sgetreal, or hash WSHD 2024. Just like, drop a tweet under this chat, under this space, rather. And yeah, let's make sure that we ensure that, yes, we've done the work of putting together these fantastic films, but now the real work starts is to get people to watch it and to have these conversations going and have people questioning or restructuring their truths.

Hassan's Insights on Film and Community Impact

Hassan, I want to bring you in here because obviously, when it comes to organizing films, when it comes to making stories for impact, you have a lot of experience around this. And so I want to know, are there specific situations where you've seen the power film has to tackle or break down global issues for communities? Are there specific situations you have seen film do this brilliantly?

The Power of Film in Communities

Hello there. Thank you. For this opportunity. Of course, for the case of storytelling, Torsten is a very powerful mechanism for increasing community awareness, but also to start the conversation. As you know that in most of community, especially in rural areas, there is still a high level for stigmas. Most of the people, they don't want to talk openly issues concerning sexual and reproductive wealth and rights.

Film as a Method for Discussion

So to have a sort of storytelling methodology such as a film, it's like any icy breaker, because once people watch the film, that means they have opportunity to started to cover a hard conversation, or not they have their watch. So based on my experience in Tanzania, of course, storytelling is one of the approaches that being used, but however, is not intensively utilized compared to other countries where creative ecosystem is well developed, such as.

Addressing Knowledge Gaps

Such as Kenya. So yes, we are using storytelling, especially radio dramas. But I can see there is still a huge gap in Tanzania, especially on how to use films to bring social changes to the community, especially one area around HRjdev. So as the member, this is what drove us to establish a simulated festival, so that the local community members, especially young people, can have a platform to discuss issues concerning SRH, but also to pass by the vital information so that can avoid the most.

Engagement and Reducing Risky Behaviors

They can avoid the risky behaviors. As we know that there is a huge knowledge gap between one generation to another generation. I can give an example. If you can see the statistics for HIV infections, there is a high level for new HIV infection to the genesee compared to the other ag groups, especially millennials and other agency groups. So you can tend to see why you have this information gap.

Adapting to a Digital Age

It's because we don't have a proper mechanism of addressing issues based on different age as we are. As we know that we are in a digital age where we needed to utilize, a different ways, especially on. Yes, we can hear you. Okay, so I was trying to say that, in particular story, I mean, I was going to say that films are very powerful because in this sea, in this new age, especially Gen Z, they don't have much time, to be honest, they don't have much time to see t and the end and to read the, to the magazine or books like that, the way we did.

Short Films for Impact

So films, especially such as short films, they can be easily, and they can be an easily method to pass information to the young people and conspire to inspire change. Because in most cases, people, they are more likely to adapt change when they see something more than once. Maybe they have to listen or other forms. So I believe that to have a project like a Gatorade.

Transforming Narratives through Film

Like a Gatorade, it will help us to use the films to have this kind of haruka, I call them hari composition due to the nature of level stigmas and the traditional issues in your comments. So we are looking forward to study using the gateway films to engage with our community. And I truly believe that will bring huge changes in your community, especially to the young people.

Conclusion

Yeah. Thank you so much, Hassan.

The Power of Film

And you're so right. I feel like when I watched before 16, definitely had me even questioning, like, okay, am I doing enough to help change things? Et cetera. So film is quite powerful. And of course, Loik and Charlene, we're going to come back to you in a bit because I do want to know how, on a personal level, the films you worked on, how did they change you? So we're going to come back to that in a bit. But remember, as you listening to this space, the hashtag is let's get real. And first, you can let us know your thoughts in using film as a powerful storytelling tool to change mindset, to create and spark connection and change, you know, but also, if there's a film you've watched that made you think deeply about a global issue like sexual reproductive health, and Wangukandra, you've just, and I'm coming right to you, but I wanted to read your tweet first.

Engaging with Community Stories

You said you should watch the unbroken voices, stories of resilience and survivors sharing their journeys. And actually, it's on YouTube. So I've just retweeted it. I'm definitely going to watch that after this. So, Wangu, I want to bring you in now because, I mean, from 2005, you've been doing this work on ground, and you're hearing some of themes that have come up in the film. So we have sexual violence, we have stigma around, conversations on protecting yourself, what's a positive relationship? Tell me about the stories you've encountered with the work that you do on sexual reproductive health on ground. And what have you seen that has helped change the community's mindset, especially on something as tricky as sexual violence. Thank you, Adele.

Community Engagement in Sexual Health

So I think one of the huge or positive things that I've seen in the community is breaking, how do we break information down for everyone to understand? Breaking the information, like the way you would break it down to a nine year old, so that they understand the impact of the different social issues that we have in the country. For example, HIV and AIDS, sexual violence, when it comes to HIV and AIDS, when it comes to abortion, family planning, there's a lot of stigma around those issues. And the only way we are able to communicate to the citizens or to the one G Corps is trying to get a mode of communication that will assist them to understand if you do this, these are the consequences. If you reach out and seek these support services, it will reduce these many risks.

Theatrical Innovations in Education

So one of the things that I've seen is different community groups using theater, using puppetry to pass or to share information, or to sensitize the community on the different social issues. And I'm glad the docu drama team have actually tried to do that in. In film or in visuals, because also, one of the things that we've been struggling with as a country is how do you create small short films or short documentaries to allow people to interact and also digest the information instead of having a long film, and you might not end up passing the information the way you intended to. So trying to get message packaged in the shortest form possible facilitates the conversation at the community level, but then also how, as human beings, our time span looking at things is very short.

Utilizing Technology and Community Engagement

So what is catchy for me to look at that can pass a message in the fastest way possible, not only for adults, but also young, the youth, but then also adolescents. Because issues of sexual and reproductive health cuts across the youngest person to the oldest person. So how do we nurture and use of technology and innovation to facilitate, to pass and share information? Because I think it's one area that we've not leveraged on. And I guess the more we get into it, the more we understand how to communicate, because the issues that we are dealing with, whether it's sexual violence, where you're looking at a 14 year old being defiled, how do you encourage that person to come out and share their ordeal so that they can receive the right support services? If it's a young adult who is looking at family planning methods, how do we communicate and help people understand the advantages of one family planning method over the other?

The Role of Community Groups

So I guess with the docu drama, film and documentaries, we are on the right track if we can do it more, but then also explore other avenues where we can actually showcase the work. How do we bring community members into a social hall and help them interact with the different materials that we are creating? Because that's the only way we can address this stigma. But then also the discrimination that comes with various vulnerable groups. But then ensure that at the end of the day, a person will leave feeling more empowered to seek the support services that they require at the end of the day. Thank you.

Cultural Sensitivity in Addressing Issues

Thank you for that. Wangu. I completely agree with you on what we need to leverage more on. And I just want a follow up question, because when we talk about communities and different community members interacting with the films that have been created, what are some of those community groups that you feel, if not engaged, could be a stumbling block to us advancing sexual reproductive health rights and justice? So, for example, how do we, or would you say that there's an element or a necessity of screening the film, say, to religious groups within the community? Chamas, you know what I mean? So what are those community groups feel really should not be left out?

Empowering Families in Conversations

I think one of the things that we actually need to do is lay out a strategy and identify groups, for example, religious leaders, charmers, because you see there is no need of empowering a young person, and yet you are not empowering their parents because they will always clash or get to a point where they have disagreements, and that actually does not build relationships. But if we can have a way where even family members, like a group of a big nuclear family, where they can sit down and look at one of the films and that becomes a discussion point, then we will see people looking at things differently, because all we need to do is change how people think.

Importance of Broader Engagement

So you have religious leaders, you have children in high school, secondary school, junior high, primary school. We have chamas. We have, even if we get men groups, the better. We have youth groups that are doing amazing work. We have the likes of social justice centers who are actually set up around the country. That's another avenue. We have members of the Survivors network, like under Wangukanja foundation, that has a footing in all 47 county counties. We have CUC members, court users committee. We have gpv, gender based violence, working groups like the opportunities are numerous.

Understanding Cultural Attitudes and Limitations

It's up to us to see how best we engage with them and see whether changing the way we communicate on issues will actually transform them as individuals. And look at the different issues that we are trying to address. Because we live in a bubble where people don't want to address issues unless there's a risk attached to it. That's when everyone now rushes to say, so what can we do? What can we do? So I think we have a platform where if we are able to film, we can start preventing some of the social issues that we have in our community.

Creating Impact through Empowerment

So I am saying let's just go wild and reach as many groups as possible, because that's the only way we can see how people interact with different films or documentaries and then also improve our modes of communication. Thank you. Yeah, I completely agree with you. Like, I was snapping so hard when you said, if you empower the child, but not the parents or the community that's around this child, then there's not much you've done. Right. So I totally agree with you.

Exploration and Reflection

There are so many pockets in communities who are actual influencers. Right. Influence the community so much. They also need to be educated, and they would need to definitely watch the films. And going back to the films, I want to bring back Charlene and Loik, and maybe we can start with you, Charlene. When working on 1992, what was the experience working on the film, like and specific to Washington? There a way the film impacted you? Was there a shift? Did you have to confront your own beliefs, challenge your own beliefs, change them even?

Personal Insights from Filmmaking

Thanks, Adele. So, yeah, it's very rare that you work on something so deep and not be impacted. Okay. I did have some facts from the past about the topic. Yes. But when we did the workshop and we got to listen to people's real life stories, it has a very profound impact that lasts. I remember, actually, during the workshop, there were people who were tearing up a lot. So it was a good thing that we had the counselors we could talk to.

Impact of Real Stories

So that one hearing it straight from someone who's gone through it, gone through the stigma, actually, of HIV and AIDS and also the stigma of if, like, their partner is not allowing them to protect themselves because they have a say in how they protect themselves. And why are you protecting yourself anyway? Because, I mean, it's me and you. So listening to this, of course, had a very profound impact. So I'd say, yeah, as much as I already knew some things, that interactione one, did actually have an impact, and also the making of the movie itself.

Reflections on Filmmaking

I remember where were filming, there's parts of the crew would really like, we've finished a scene, and then you turn and look at the crew, and the crew are just staring at the performers because they're like, what? So I'm imagining even the crew was impacted during the making of this particular film. Yeah. So I'd say there's a profound impact that is long lasting, and I. I'm hoping it's what people will take from the film. Like, this is real.

Confronting Difficult Conversations

Yeah. And we need to face it head on. And also, I'm just thinking now, in the general, relationships, apart from, like, love life and whatnot, these tough conversations generally must be had in advance. Like, there's no waiting. I don't know, two years of being together, then that's when you're bringing up something like this, you will have wasted, I think, two years because there's a possibility of breaking up and stuff if you're not talking honestly.

Creating Safe Spaces for Dialogue

So I'm guessing, yeah, I think right now I'm more, I'm braver in terms of conversations. Like, let's just have this rough one right now so that we know if we are on the same page or not. And why don't you want to have this kind of a conversation and say you want to spend the rest of your life with me? It doesn't make sense. So. Yeah.

The Influence of the Arts

Big impact, indeed. Oh, my goodness. And let me tell you, that is so profound. I think that's the power of arts, right? And when I was watching 1992, there was points where. And it's so wonderful how you guys did it. But those points in the conversation, again, I'm trying not to give too much away ahead of the premiere, but there's points in the conversation where I was on your side and then these points, I was like, I can kind of see where this guy is coming from and, like, just trying to put myself in that situation and, like, figure out what's the how.

Confronting Truths

How would you have this conversation? But I think that's what's powerful, because then watching the film made me have to go and confront certain views or truths that I held, you know? What about you, loik? Let's move back to you and see, working on the film and being part of this get real initiative, I would like to know just what that did for you. Was there shifts in your beliefs? Did you have to challenge some of your beliefs and adopt new ones?

Personal Reflections on Impact

Yeah. Yeah, there's a lot. But there's two that I always still remember from the film. It's the way you can see a child going through a lot, but she doesn't even know, why am I going to through all these things, the things that are coming from the mother? And she feels like, okay, what's wrong? Well, that part is always, it's always coming back every day, every time.

Understanding Empathy Through Story

Like, there's a lot of things that we are going through, but the thing that we got from our mother, because we don't even know what our mothers went through, especially in Burundi, doesn't even know why she's going through what she's going through. And that part is always triggering me in my mind every time, every day. And another part is when the mother said, I remember when I was. When I was just having a baby and I tried to look for a job, but you can't look for a job when you're 16 because you don't have id.

Need for Compassion in Policy

So when you see, you sit back and start thinking like, okay, what is this person going through? It's really painful where you sit and feel like, okay, maybe we still have a lot of talk to even the people who make these laws, who decide for what is right or what is wrong, they really know the real story for this. For these people. Yeah, it's a story that's always helped me to just sit down and, you know, going up out of the box and start thinking like, what is really life?

Challenging Norms and Rights

What is life, seriously? Because, for example, me, I mean, when you. When I try to. To put myself in the place of that, the woman who is going through all these things, if you like, what can I do? Am I supposed to just sit here and accept things like that? While I'm a human? I have a right. They always say, like, women. Women have rights and have this. The people are making this right.

A Call for Understanding

The people are making these laws are. They really know me as a human. So for me, it's a. It's a very big impact that this film has made for me. Yeah, I totally feel that because I think the specific lines in before 16 that really stood out for me. But really that feeling of a child, having a child, you know, and just, yeah, it really hit home for me, watching before 16 and, yeah, it's good.

Sharing Moments of Reflection

It's. Thank you so much for sharing the moments that stuck with you and, like, how that expanded you as well. I don't know if Mungai has dropped off and I was gonna bring in Mungai, but in the meantime, what I will say is that we do have a digital premiere for all the films. Remember I said the eight films from across East Africa, so Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and they're going to be premiering this Friday.

Digital Premiere Information

So there is a digital premiere. What you need to do to make sure that you do not miss out on the digital premiere is follow the get real Twitter page, and that's get real films. I'm going to tweet it in a bit for you to check that out. But as Mungai logs in again, let me just make sure that. Yeah, so I have invited you, Mungai to come back on.

Engaging the Audience

As he comes back on, I would like to also say that if you have any questions for our panelists, you can drop them in the chat area. Just use the hashtag hash. Let'sgetreal. And you can drop your questions. You can also drop, if there's a film that you watched that actually made you conscious of a global issue, it would be nice to know about it so that we can really unpack how film is powerful in terms of sparking change.

Recommendations and Thoughts

Doreen Mirembe, rather, you said you should watch mama Wange. All right. I feel like my whole evening is, like, set up for me. I've got three films to watch now. Okay. So is Mungai back? I don't believe he's back yet. So maybe we can bring in Hassan to come in. Actually, before we bring you in Hassan, I want to circle back to Humphrey, and maybe I just want to evaluate.

The Role of Storytelling in Social Change

We've spoken about the power of storytelling and how we can use it to change things and how people think in our communities. But have you seen a format of storytelling or gaps that maybe you may want to warn us about to keep in mind? So, like, Wangu has talked about us making sure we screen the films to particular groups and communities, be it religious groups, parents, teachers.

Addressing Gaps in Storytelling

I would also add, like, police officers, if we're talking matters, sexual violence, medical practitioners as well. What about you, Humphrey, in Uganda? Do you know of any gaps that maybe we should be aware of as we prepare to start making sure this film is watched across communities? Yeah. Thank you so much.

Patience and Story Impact

I think also, that's a very. It's a very wonderful question, but also, it needs a lot of ways to answer it. One, when it comes to storytelling, I think me always, what I tell filmmakers is, as long as we want to see the change that we all feel we should really have through storytelling, also quite changing the mindset of the people that would love this message to reach to.

Finding Balance in Messaging

We should also put it in mind to be patient with them and how we should be patient with them, because at the end of the day, we shouldn't want, again, to. For them to be really against what we are telling them as the right thing to do. So we kind of have to balance up how to go in terms of what kind of content are we able to package for everyone to consume, but also knowing that the environment we're working with is a bit, also a little bit balanced in terms of being conservative and also in terms of looking at what is trending today.

Cultural Considerations in Filmmaking

So we have to look in terms of balancing up those two environments so that everyone can be able to appreciate your story. So it is upon you, as a storyteller to see on how you can be able to balance up your narrative on how it's balanced with two generations in terms of them consuming your story. So I know that sometimes we, the filmmakers, are quite radical.

Radical Change and Social Responsibility

We want everyone to know that this is what is happening. So let's get real. You know, this is, you know, without even looking at the landscape in terms of the laws that we're operating in as a country, you know, so we have to always look out for those things to know that if I'm writing my script, what can be consumed? What is someone at 40 years and above going to look at my story and think of and be able to be a good ambassador of my story or a bad ambassador of my story?

Navigating Policies and Culture

So we have to always look out for those things. What are the laws that are into place? What, even if we want to change the narrative, our culture, and also the values that we uphold as young people, looking at the trends that we are really living in today, how are we able to certainly communicate them to the audience as we serve, so that we change the narrative step by step, because it's not going to change immediately.

Time Needed for Narrative Shift

So we are dealing with people's attitude, we're dealing with people's beliefs, we're dealing with people's values and cultures, but also want to bend the narrative on what they believe in. So that is a gradual process that takes time. So it is something that we have to know that it's not about jumping. And also we expect everyone to change. We expect everyone to believe into our story because we are doing what we feel like they should be doing.

The Importance of Collective Engagement

But in terms of how we are writing our stories, we have to be patient with our communities in terms of them adopting to the kind of environment that we want them to see. So graduate communication, subtle of communicating and also driving narrative, showing that whatever they are doing is not bad. It was also good for us. That's why all of us are still living today.

Shifting Narratives in Society

And also we uphold the values we have, but also to try and communicate to them that things have changed in this direction and this is how we are going, but we are going together. So it's like you're creating a partnership between both generations to believe that the change has to come and there are things that has to be done. So for me, I feel like that's a good direction we have to take.

Learning from Global Narratives

I mean, if you're looking at the west world on how they have created the narrative, they started communicating about AI by the time of Swaziling and Terminator, you know, that was the AI system and all that. But see what is happening today. They started communicating you know, cars driving themselves and all that, like way back before, you know.

The Long Road to Acceptance

But this is happening today, so. Meaning that in their storytelling, they have gradually prepared their communities properly. I mean, the times of pandemics, we know that the COVID pandemic, most of us were watching pandemic movies that even were acted way back as 1986, 96 and all that, they were the ones that were trending during that period of time, but it happened in 2020. How many years are those?

Preparing for Change

So people take time to prepare their world, they take time to prepare narratives. So it comes to us as we have very rich african stories and there's a change we want to see. How do we gradually prepare our environment to accept the change that we want to see? Thank you.

Reflections on Change

That's such a powerful point, especially for someone like me who has close to zero patients. I feel like, especially when it comes to sexual violence, I want the change and I want it now. So it's good to remember that certain change may take time, but I want to bring in Wangu at this point. I was hoping Mungai would speak to this, but we'll wait for him to come on and see what he can add.

Policy Considerations

A lot of the issues around sexual reproductive health rights and justice also have to do with policy, right? And sometimes we can inform communities, we can arm them with knowledge, we can screen the films for them, they can get enlightened. But I feel like if we do all that in a space where the policies are terrible, we're still like kind of shooting ourselves in the foot. Do you see that to be true?

Moving Beyond Awareness

I mean, feel free to disagree. And what do you think we need to do with these powerful films that Charlene Lloyd and all the other filmmakers have created in terms of our policymakers, you know? Thank you, Adele. So, one, I think we need to continue coming up with such films.

Gradual Change and Policy Improvement

The reason why I'm saying that is at times we see or we view that all is lost, especially when you create something and it's nothing, bringing the desired impact when you started developing it. But then I think change is gradual. The reason why I'm saying change is gradual is also we need to come up with films where we are saying if we come up with a law that looks like this, then it improves the lives of Kenyans or generally, people have good health, and it translates to other things, education.

Economic Impact through Policies

When it comes to the economy, when it comes to businesses, we need to have positive reinforcement of an ideal society. How would you want Kenya, Uganda, Burundi to look like in the next ten years? So by educating people and letting people see that we can actually have that community only if we come up with policies that will improve the quality of life of each and every citizen.

Implementing Policies Effectively

Apart from coming up with those policies, then we set up infrastructure that will facilitate the full implementation and realization of the policies or laws, and then also investment in terms of human capital, but then also financial resources, because most of the time we come up with a law, but then we don't put the right mechanisms in place to facilitate the full realization of that law.

Visualizing Ideal Societies

So for me, it's, I guess we just need to think outside the box, kidogo, so that even as we move into the future, we are now helping people to visualize a society or a community that they would want to belong to. And I'm saying this because if you do not participate in public participation when people are developing laws or when they are consulting on an issue, you might miss out to say something that might change the community for better.

Engaging Communities for Accountability

So for us, it's, let's have a collective engagement, let's have collective feedback, because we've seen with the, with what is happening with Kenya now. Everyone is taking an initiative to hold a specific government agency accountable for things that they said they are going to do but they are not doing, or where they said they are going to invest, but they havent invested.

Harnessing Activism and Government Accountability

I think this is a way to participate in ensuring that we are holding people accountable. And I can say we've started and we need to keep the momentum, because if we take a step back, then people tend to think that we are tired and we've given up. So I want to encourage the team to look at this whole process positively and maybe come up with a film where if I was asked, as Wango, what do you want your country to look like in the next ten years in relation to sexual violence?

Access to Health and Justice

For me, it's one health services at all levels, for survivors of sexual and gender based violence, access to justice. We cannot deny survivors because we are saying that because of law a, we are unable to provide, let's say, p three forms or PRC forms, or because of inflation or something else, we've reduced the budget. That's the reason why we are not having documents at the service delivery points, and hence that will deny survivors access to justice or access to comprehensive care and support.

Communicating Ideal Societies

So for me, what is the ideal society that we would want to see and work towards that and communicate that? Because I think we always look at the negative things to a point where people get tired, get fatigued, get frustrated, disappointed, and they detach and say, like, one of the things that we like saying in Kenya to Nakwaga or Kenya to Nakwagaivio, Kenya is not like that.

Shaping a Better Future

We've made Kenya to be like that. So we need to take that back and say, this is what I want to see my country look like in the next 1015 years. And we are working towards it. And by having films that positively reinforce that kind of society, I think we are going to change. And the communication will be a game changer.

Transforming Communication Strategies

Because most of the time we always see bad communication materials just out in the public domain or different social media platforms.

Hope and Change

And we are heartbroken. We become tired, we become fatigued. But I think there is hope. Despite all the numerous challenges that we are having, there is hope. And we are the ones to bring that change. And by having these films and documentaries out in the public domain, that it makes it a platform for people to discuss and see what is the best way moving forward to rebuild our country, but also rebuild the families and societies that each and every individual is coming from. Because we need to bring change from the household level to the national level, because that's the only way we can hold each other accountable and reinforce that we have the right policies, we have the right laws, we have the right infrastructure, and then also we have the financial resources and human capital or human skills that we need so that to make or to realize that dream that we want to have. Thank you.

Influencing Policy through Film

You've made so many incredible points. But I think my favorite one is when it comes to influencing policy makers and policy changes around issues to do with sexual reproductive health. Imagine a film that explains how beautiful life would be if a certain law changed. You know, it almost reminded me of, it was a tweet that went viral that was asking women what would they do if they were to safe. I can't remember how it was phrased, but if they felt safe, etcetera. And like, women wanted to do the basic things, like go for a jog in the evening, walk to the grocery store without having some sort of weapon on them, etcetera. And basically, I think it went viral because it allowed people to dream. But also it showed that the things are so bad that a woman's dream is for her to do very basic things safely, you know. So that's really interesting. You've really got my creativity, like, going when it comes to policy change, even just in terms of when we look at what's happening in Kenya now, for example, the bill that is going to make it, if passed, would make it more difficult for Kenyans to protest.

Impact of Films on Policy Change

Imagine if we did a film showing how hard life would be if that bill was passed, or showing how good life would be in terms of our freedoms if it wasn't passed. So that was so wonderful. And I wanted to bring in Mungai because you have incredible experience when it comes to production of films that are dealing with themes like climate change and mental health, gender justice. These are all themes that require an element of policy change. And so in your experience, when it comes to managing the production of over 2030 films, have you seen these films be impactful influencing policy change? I don't know if. Mungai. Mungai, did you hear me? Okay, we seem to have lost Mungai, if I'm not wrong, and we've lost Hassan as well. Maybe I can bring that same question to Charlene, because I know you've had, even with the business that you have, which is more in the back end of film production, like, have you seen films dealing with these topics that have resulted in policy change?

Impact of Films on Social Issues

Wow. Have I seen films that have resulted to policy change? I cannot actively trace one, but I'm pretty sure the way I usually feel when I watch a film. Yes. You're back now. Oh, okay, cool. I was saying I can't trace an actual film, but I'm pretty sure they're there. I just need to investigate. But I'm imagining human beings are kinda universal. So the way I usually feel impacted by a film when I watch it, I think there's a high chance other people are impacted when they watch also. And it can. Of course it changes how you think because it's influence. It's programming. For example, there's this film I watched for Ben Affleck where he had autism. It's called the accountant, and he was a sniper and he was very good at it. And I feel like I do not know a lot about autism. Yes, but I learned so much just by watching that film.

Exploring Change Through Film

And of course it sensitized me in how to behave in the event that I'm in the presence of someone who has autism. So I think that was very subconscious and I'm imagining that is how policy is changed when people watch and then their influence, especially like going to theater or something, and it's. You're all there collectively. And maybe people who have the capacity to change to, what do you call it, to write new policies are there also. So I feel like it's kind of guaranteed. It does push for some change to happen. Like when you watch, say, a movie like Serafina? Yeah, it's, it's so it's a no brainer. It's a, it's a no brainer. You're gonna see that kind of a movie and you're gonna want to treat people differently because you can see their fight, you can see what they're fighting for. So there's no way you're watching a movie like that.

The Role of Policy Makers

And then you continue behaving ignorantly about people's plight. So I'm pretty sure that film does help change policy big time, subconsciously, and of course, consciously, where we have to actively, yeah, we have to actively push for the change ourselves somehow using the films. Yeah. Yeah, I do feel you because it can inform you, and I guess policymakers should be part of the people who view the films that you have made. And also, I feel like, especially with where we are as Kenya, I think filmmakers have their work cut out for them. If you look at all the things that we need changed, et cetera, there's a lot of gaps that a film could be used as such a necessary tool to push and lobby for certain policy changes. Right.

Experiences in Tanzania

Maybe I would like to hear from Hassan and Loik in terms of policy changes in your countries, have you seen situations where films have actually resulted in either policy change or government paying attention to certain things? We can start with you, Hassan, and then we'll come to you Loik then okay, I think. Thank you. As Sharon said, we personally have never seen a film, I've never watched a film which directly addresses issues concerning the police and the legal framework, especially on issues. But as I said, that one of the biggest problem we have, especially in Tanzania, most of our filmmakers, they don't produce much films which directly, which are directly aiming to push for police changes or to try to emphasize for only how the government must operate.

The Role of Cinema in Advocacy

But yeah, I think there is still room for filmmakers to come out with such kind of films which can try to address issues concerning the policies because the way only how the government is working, especially in Tanzania, they normally take film industry in a cultural aspect and not in a way that the films can be an active tool for advocating for police changes or any issues concerning our community. Yeah, again, as I said, I don't remember in my, I don't remember in my mind if I watch a film which I've ever challenged seriously issues concerning the policies. But we have so much, we have several policies which policies and roles which are not friendly in our country, for instance, according to the Marriage act of 1971, which allow a girl to be married at the age of 14 with a court concert, and she can be also married by the age of 15 through the policy concert.

Challenges in Policy Representation

But we don't, as I said earlier, we don't have much films which can try to address such kind of policy, which is a variety area. But however, there is the organization there, as, of course, there is other organization which I've started to produce some films which try also to try to showcase the detrimental effects of such kind of policy, which I have mentioned, such as the marriage law. Yeah, but I don't, I can't say much, but of course, I, how the fame have started to change the post because I don't have actual, a really example to point out that scenario. Yeah, but I mean, you know, it just speaks to that being a wonderful gap for us to kind of like, see if the films that are created, that have been created under this initiative can actually be used and screened to policymakers.

Experiences from Burundi

You know, I think that's also a group in communities that we forget and policy plays a huge part. Loik, maybe you could add your experience in Burundi speaking to the same effect around policy change and film impacting that. All right. As others were replying to the question, I was thinking, do we really have these films that have ever made an impact and make these, some laws change from the politician or government? Something like that. I find like, we never had a film that can speak on this, these matters, that, these stories that matters to people, this story that can challenge government or politician to change the laws and everything.

Storytelling in the African Context

We don't have. We never had the film that could challenge that. But another thing that I can add on is even the filmmaker, we don't know how to tell these stories. We don't know how what, in too much politicians or governments, we don't have that. So before we even speak on the film that have changed, even the people was to do those films, we are nothing. Yep. Yes, I hear you. I hear you. And maybe it's good to have conversations like this where, you know, connecting filmmakers to people like Wangu Kanja, like Humphrey on ground, who understand the importance for certain policy to be implemented or changed, etcetera.

Filmmaking Opportunities

So thank you so much for sharing. I do want to go to the comments, and of course, if you have any questions, you can drop them really quick because we're about to wind up and, oh, there's so many. Okay. The abbot says, this conversation reminds me of the Netflix series sex education. Having local films that contextualize the SRH issues is a big boost for breaking barriers. I completely agree with you on that, Mugambi. You say Fatuma made a huge impact on me because it was so beautifully shot and later on realized it was actually intended as edutainment for issues related with economic empowerment of women.

The Power of Film and Community Engagement

Isn't that interesting that you first were like, this is such a wonderful film, and then didn't even realizing they were informing you on certain things. And the girl next door, Mbogo sue, you say, I believe the kenyan film dearly departed contributed to policy change in Kenya around medical officers being able to give reproductive health care to abortion patients in Kenya. But I need to research on this. Yeah, I do think that most of the times when we look at films, we focus, yes, on making sure we screen them to communities and we talk to if it's religious groups, as I said earlier, chamas, teachers, young, we bring the youth together into like a youth center.

Screening Films and Policy Changes

But we can do all of this, but without making sure the environment that is created by policies is not altered. Then we'll still have a big issue. So we're winding up our talk and I want to give a few minutes to docubox and those from get real. So I know, Judy, we sent you a request, but I don't see you as a speaker yet. And I think Mungai is having technical issues. So I would like to get just docubox to speak to the next steps on get real for a few minutes before we wind up. And I think that's Ken. So maybe you could just share the next steps just because the two other speakers are having a bit of a technical issue.

Next Steps in Filmmaking

Thank you so much, Adele Koet. This is a profound conversation that we are having. Of course. My name is Ken Kigunda. I'm the communication lead for NPR, lead for Docubox. It's been quite great honor to have all these people coming on board to listen to great filmmakers that we've been working with since 2023 to develop these amazing, authentic African stories, speaking on various themes about sexual reproductive rights and justice. It's great work there. About eight films that were produced that will premiere this Friday across East Africa, and this is the screening in Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Uganda, and here in Nairobi.

Online Production and Community Engagement

But even more important is that we will have an online premiere, or rather a digital premiere that will kick on at 07:00 p.m. all the way to 09:00 p.m. and we'll definitely be again watching these films. Therefore, other people may not be in this physical premiere, they can be able to follow these powerful stories that range from UnyGo speaking about the culture in the coastal region all the way to Jimbi, a film in Uganda, and other particular films that we are sharing on our social media. You can check our social media to be able to get the link that you'll be able to watch these particular films during the digital premiere if you are nothing going to make it to the physical premiere.

Acknowledging Filmmakers

But above all, we thank the filmmakers who are really put a lot of work, immense work, just to have these beautiful stories that are able now to synthesize or rather give a chance people to interact and have conversation, to spark those conversations that mostly are concealed, those conversations that are untold, those conversations we are uncomfortable to tell, but in a beautiful way that now we can be able to engage and develop deeper conversations around issues that affect us within the SRH field. Also, thank you to Wangu Kanja foundation and other partners that we've had in Uganda, Richerhan, definitely in Tanzania. We are working also in simulizi festival and other very many partners that we've engaged since 2023 to be able to come up with these stories.

Engagement and Impact

And also they've given us a chance during the digital premiere for people to access services. If you need counseling services, if you need any other services around sexual and reproductive rights, justice, they'll be able to provide them. There's a toll line. We will have rooms in the premier halls where people can be able to go seek guidance, seek counseling, and be able to even seek more information on how they can engage. Also, we are welcoming chip in terms of impact campaign that is now moving forward. After the premiere on 6th, we will definitely, these films are not going to stay at the shelves. We are going definitely to allow people in this particular field to be able to use these particular films, to even engage community engagement, different stakeholders, engage policymakers, so that we can be able to have a long lasting impact campaign around these.

Creating Change through Storytelling

And this is just the beginning of the conversation that has been ongoing. As storytellers, we want to show the power of using storytelling to be able to create more space for people to be able to speak out, for more people to be able to tell their own stories in their own ways, more people to be able to comprehend these very complex issues around SrHLJ, and more people to be able then to engage and make a difference. Because above all, we want to see change and real change happening as fast as we can. So, Adele, that's all I can say for now. But be.

Excitement for Premiere

I can't wait for the premiere. I can't wait for these beautiful films to be able to be screened to people both in cinemas and also digitally, and be able to also have a life of their own when it comes to distribution in different festivals that they may eat in different communities that they may go to, but create a long lasting impact in this particular area. Thank you so much, Adele. Thank you, Ken. And just like you, I really can't wait for the premiere. I know I've gotten a bit of leakage because I've watched two of the films, which is before 16 and 1992, and I was just, like, blown away by how amazing they are.

Preparing for Digital Premiere

And so I can't wait to see the rest. And there is a digital premiere, as Ken has so rightfully said. So make sure you follow getrealfilms. Real is spelled R E l films on Twitter, just so that you don't miss out on the link for the premiere, which is happening this Friday. And please share it if you're in this Twitter space, what you can do is just share everything that we've talked about, share the films once they're out, so that we can get the message out there, because we are trying to use films to spark change and to create some impact.

The Call for Individual Action

So the last thing that I will ask of all my panelists being World Sexual Health Day, I just don't want to go one for more. I mean, go from each of you to hear what you feel are the next smallest steps someone listening can take so that they can be part of the change. We need to see when it comes to navigating or challenging or changing or erasing certain issues around sexual reproductive health rights and justice. Because I feel like a huge impact, huge change is made by individual action. So what's the next small a step you think those listening can implement and start to do now? And we can start with you, Humphrey, and then go to Wangu Hassan, Charlene, and we'll try and see if Loik will be back by then.

Hope for Change

But we can start with you, Humphrey. Yeah. Thank you so much. And also thanks so much to all the participants and the speakers. Quite a lot of insights. I mean, every day is a learning day for me. What I wanted to close with is that we have hope. And this hope is really by the kind of activists that are in the room and that hope for change that we want to see. And also looking at the youth and the young people are taking leads. They are telling their own stories. They are being at the front line of implementing the change they want to see in terms of designing solutions and also programming around them and also looking at very many young people being at the forefront of that.

Creating Safe Spaces

And that's the hope that we'd love to see, because I, as a father of two girls, I'd love them to grow in that environment where it's being able to accommodate them, appreciate who they are, be able to make the right choices, walk a few meters, and they're able to access services that they would love to get in terms of their reproductive health. You know, being in that environment that can really be. Make them enjoy it so that they can as well be more productive and be creative in creating solutions that are going to solve the problems they're going to encounter at their time.

Advocacy Responsibility

And that's the responsibility that we have taken into our hands to make sure that we advocate for safe spaces, advocate for that environment we want to see. And all that is evidenced within the films that we're going to premiere on Friday. So I urge all the Ugandan community that is on here to come at International University of East Africa, where we're going to have a wonderful premiere with so many stakeholders, young people, and also commend to the work that richer hand and Sauti plus and also thanking Dukibos for believing in us and also making us be part of this wonderful milestone that we're creating as a movement of young people and solving issues on social justice.

Final Gratitude and Best Wishes

Thank you so much and I wish you all the best. Thanks, Humphrey. Thank you for sharing your insights and for the incredible work that you are doing in Uganda. Wangu, you can go on next. Thank you, Adele. So I want to say a job well done for all the individuals who participated in developing the documentaries and the short films. So moving forward, because one of the things I believe in is you live by example. So I'm going to reach out to Docubox to see if we can do a film looking at an ideal situation. If I'm a survivor of sexual violence, what is the ideal situation that I want to see moving forward?

Using Film for Advocacy

And hopefully we can use that to. We can use that for advocacy. But then also one of the things that I think that we should encourage each other, I don't think it's always doom and gloom. There's always some light at the end of the tunnel. So let us see the few steps or the good steps that we've managed to achieve as a country, because I think at times we focus too much on the positive. So at the end of the day, we are frustrated if we don't see or if we don't identify the small steps that we are making towards addressing some of the social ills that we have.

Creating Impact Through Different Approaches

And I am looking forward to seeing what it looks like when we develop a film that has content that is totally different from what people usually expect and see what that translates to. What's the impact that we can have by doing things differently? Because I believe if you do things differently, then people emulate you and also follow your footsteps. You encourage people. So we need to be encouraged. So I'm grateful and I'm thankful. See you on Friday. Thank you.

End of Discussion

Thanks, Wangu, and thanks for keeping our hope alive. It's not doom and gloom. There is hope. Hassan, maybe we can hear your final remarks, and then we'll cross over to Loik and Shelley. Okay, thank you. First of all, my huge congratulations to doc Box and all the filmmakers who are involved in the whole process of the production. I was able to watch, of course, I had very potential. And you can say the stories are really authentic and beautiful. So as you have USD, only how we can try to involve, how anyone can be part of this movement is the first is to continue to coordinate small screen to the community, to make sure everybody is involved and be part of this conversation, especially young people who are mostly vulnerable to the SLH ER.

Building Conversations

But also, we need to bring in together various important groups, especially decision makers, into this year, into this conversation, because most of the issues, especially the police framework, is need the direct involvement of decision makers. They needed to understand what young people say. They need to understand what people need in terms of information. And so I believe that these films will, as I said earlier, will be an essay breaker to have this meaningful conversation among the various. Among the various groups in the community. Thank you. Thank you so much. Hassan and I completely agree.

Empowering Voices Through Storytelling

Loik, we could have your closing remarks. Yep. As a filmmaker, I will suggest to my fellow filmmakers to keep telling stories that matter, the stories that are speaking to our culture, that are speaking to our people, because I do believe there's a lot of people here in Africa who are doing very great things, but they are not highlighted enough to make, to help other people to see it as a culture. I wish we could have a lot of stories that are speaking to, that are highlighting these people who are making a lot of thought to other people to see, oh, Africa. We can do this, to have this proudness, to feel like, oh, we can change.

The Potential of African Filmmaking

We have the change in our hands. We can think from us. People must have come at us, oh, you need to do this. Yeah, I think that's all. Thanks, Louie. And I completely agree with you. I actually completely agree with you. So we just need more of those type of stories coming up. Charlene, we can end with your remarks. Cool. Thank you, guys for showing up. To add on to what Loyke just said, I do encourage the filmmakers in Africa to tell impactful stories and in the most entertaining way so that we can attract the audiences who don't want to be preached to.

Creating Hard Conversations

I think we can do that and it will have even bigger impact. And also, I think in our homes, maybe we can start having the hard conversations so that we change as human beings, one person at a time. And also, of course, I invite everyone to please tune in online on Friday to watch our films. And hopefully a conversation will start online and there will be changes. There will be changes and we will see positive change out there in how people treat each other. In how people. Yeah. In how people treat each other, actually.

Transformative Conversations

And how people communicate. Yeah, that's it. Thank you. Thanks. Thanks, Charlene, for that. And yes, difficult conversations and not the preachy type of films. I like that. And so my last message to everyone listening is the filmmakers in this project have poured their hearts and souls into the films. I could tell just by watching before 16 and 1992. And so please give Get Real Films follow so that you can watch the films on Friday during the digital premiere.

Amplifying Voices Through Sharing

And once you watch them, just share about them with your social circles, with the people who follow you, so that we can amplify the incredible work that they have done. So I would like to end our wonderful conversation here, but I'm pretty sure we will keep talking, especially on Friday, once we all watch the films. And remember, once you do and you want to share about them, use the hashtag let'sgetreal. Thank you so much for joining this Twitter space. I really have loved everything that has come up and so much has been brought up that has made me think about how we can approach issues, sexual reproductive health in different ways and more impactful ways.

Closing and Reflection

And I hope that has been the same for you. Yeah. Good night to everybody. Good night.