TRUE STORIES: A Project to Change the Representation of Migration in the Media
The European project TRUE STORIES, launched by the French Red Cross in collaboration with Louie Media and the Open Cultural Centre (OCC) in Spain and Greece, aims to transform how migration is represented and perceived on social media. Using podcast and video formats alongside multimedia training, the project seeks to give a voice to migrants and refugees, allowing them to share their own stories. Through non-formal education and transnational exchanges, TRUE STORIES aims to empower migrants to shape their online image and develop narratives that counter stereotypes.
As one of the project’s key initiatives, six podcast episodes featuring the journeys of migrants and refugees are being recorded and translated into English, French, Spanish, and Greek. In addition, media technique training workshops are being held in Paris, Barcelona, and Polykastro, offering 15 participants the opportunity to learn content creation skills. To reach a wider audience, a social media distribution strategy will be deployed, aiming to create a community of online ambassadors. The project will culminate with a launch event in Paris in December 2024.
Media Training in Polykastro: Hands-on Learning
On August 30, 2024, a video content creation workshop was held at OCC Greece’s facilities in Polykastro, gathering six participants from Iraq, Guinea, and India. This session took the form of a conversation, marked by spontaneous exchanges with curious and motivated participants. After learning the basics of framing, sound, and lighting, they took advantage of the nice weather to film outdoors. One participant, eager to learn how to film himself playing guitar and singing, volunteered to be the model. The whole group practiced together, testing their skills in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The workshop ended on a convivial note, with participants expressing their gratitude before everyone gathered for a meal of Greek specialties to close the day.
Media Training in Paris: Learning Video Basics in a Professional Setting
On September 11, 2024, the same video content creation workshop was held at the French Red Cross headquarters in Paris. Led by Alexandra, a journalist at Louie Media, this session brought together three participants. They learned the basics of video creation, from choosing equipment to final editing, in a slightly more formal setting compared to the session in Greece.
Throughout the training, several practical aspects were covered, such as how to film an interview or selfie, how to select the right filming location, and common mistakes to avoid. After the theoretical presentation, participants were able to apply the techniques directly within the French Red Cross premises.
At the end of the session, participants shared that the training had boosted their enthusiasm for their projects and that they now feel better equipped to realize them. As one participant stated: “A great springboard to get started in amateur video production with a bit more quality.”
Next Steps: Toward a Multi-platform Communication Campaign
A final video creation training session is scheduled in Barcelona in the coming weeks. Afterward, the content created by migrants and refugees will be shared via a cross-posting strategy on social media, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, under the hashtag #TrueStories. This multilingual campaign will culminate on December 18, 2024, coinciding with International Migrants Day, aiming to reach a broader audience, often distant from these issues. By leveraging the power of social media, TRUE STORIES aspires to spread authentic stories and change the perception of migration in Europe.
