What inspired you to go abroad?
I was looking for an opportunity to experience another culture first-hand. I didn't want the experience a resort could give me, but rather one that was immersive and honest.
Taking photographs during an excursion to ancient ruin
Why did you choose Actuality Media?
When I discovered Actuality Media, I was immediately interested because it joined my interest of travel with my passion for filmmaking, which I was studying at the time. The thoroughness and professionalism of the organization (which I experienced through emails and interviews) confirmed for me that this was an opportunity I wanted.
What was your favorite part about Bolivia?
Cochabamba, Bolivia is a place that, upon discussing with people from my home country, is deemed “dangerous.” But in it I found colour, passion, social activism, and community. The people were welcoming, the weather was beautiful, and the culture was beaming!
What made your experience abroad unique?
My experience was made unique because of the people I experienced it with. Actuality Media allows for student filmmakers to work and live together, which is a thrill in and of itself! Making friends while also facing the challenge of working with people of different backgrounds, personalities, and styles is a fantastic way to grow as a person and filmmaker.
Documentary filming in progress
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
Actuality Media provided our cohort with two staff, Audrey and Lovinder, each with their own roles but ultimately there to support us. I always felt safe and comfortable to approach them, and learned a lot through them. They were available to us throughout the entire trip and even afterwards.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?
I wish I would have had more experience in my particular role as director because I entered into the experience with minimal experience and felt in the end that I could have told a better story if I had more practice. The program, however, did provide many resources and general workshops in filmmaking throughout the month which was very helpful.
Describe a typical day in the life of your program.
Breakfast at the hostel, walking to the Base Camp apartment with the rest of the filmmakers, discussing the upcoming day, and then splitting into our respective crews to shoot. Later that night returning to Base Camp and reflecting on the work we've done, how far we've progressed, and sharing challenges.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoyed having meals with the other filmmakers (as well as the people from the organization we documented), exploring Cochabamba, and taking part in organized trips (Toro Toro, Ancient ruins, etc.).
Meeting with the organization leaders
What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?
I stayed in a hostel and roomed with the other filmmakers. My favourite part about it was that I got to share a living space with the people I would be working with for the next month. It encouraged friendship and made us very close!
What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?
This is a program that will challenge you as a filmmaker and person. It will also leave you with an experience, people, and memories you will never forget - DO IT!
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
My time abroad has strengthened my skills as a filmmaker and changed the way I view/make documentary films. It has shaped my beliefs and understanding of global volunteering.
Would you recommend your program to others? Why?
Yes! This is an abroad-program that does not fall into the same mistakes as typical volunTOURISM. It encourages you to immerse yourself within a culture and document a specific part of it rather than promising that you will have a deep impact on a community. We focus on the work change makers WITHIN the country are doing and learn from them.
