About
The media landscape in Pakistan has significantly altered over the last decade. TV and radio channels have increased in number and content is carefully targeted broadly cutting across ethnic, language, regional, economic and social perimeters. This has resulted in a citizenry that is better informed and more aware. A natural outcome of this process has been that the ordinary citizen is beginning to find his/her voice and is slowly becoming a part of the process. We are a long way from the scenario where empowered citizens are an integral part of the media process. However the current liberal media landscape is fertile to effect such a change and can comfortably provide a platform for expression through citizen based programming.
The possibilities opened up by cheaper technology and alternative distribution strategies have also suggested effective means for transnational information sharing, and story-telling. Stories that undercut the dominant media representations, as well as suggest hope for ever greater empathy and understanding. A platform for real people and their demand for positive change in their lives.
Two years ago, in response to these possibilities, the Filmmaking for Social Change project was set up to enable young Pakistani filmmakers to produce their own documentaries, for them to tell the stories they think ought to be heard. To date 45 young filmmakers have been trained and 16 documentaries completed. The films have been screened to appreciative British audiences at the LIDF09 and LIDF10.
The people of Pakistan are profoundly affected by challenges of poor governance, violence, law and order challenges, extremism, economic strife etc. Citizens hold strong views and opinions, and often, valuable input towards resolving many of these issues. The project is built around the conviction that film is a powerful tool for social change. It can encourage participation, an atmosphere of empowerment, and direct involvement, by providing the tools and opportunities for free and constructive expression.