Lais

Note from the Filmmakers

“Through Lais, I realized that we can create meaningful stories from the experiences around us. We wanted to tell a story that people in our community can relate to. That way, people can see themselves in the film, connect with it emotionally, and learn from it in a deeper way. We worked very hard on Lais. Sometimes actors were unavailable, plans changed suddenly and other times, we had to repeat scenes several times. But in the end, seeing the finished film and knowing it could create change in the community made all the effort worth it. The first time we screened it to parents, students, and staff, I was so scared when the film was playing. I have never had that feeling in my stomach before. But, at the end, I felt amazing! I can’t wait to make my next film. I feel proud knowing that our work can encourage people to reflect on issues happening around them and change harmful behaviors. Lais is a short film, but it gave me confidence that one day I can create something even bigger. I want to start now!.” – Eva

“I remember my fellow first graders walking away from me every time I attempted to join them at recess. Because I did not speak Swahili like most of them, they mocked the way I spoke and laughed when I struggled to form sentences. What began as teasing became a form of bullying that made me afraid to speak in class or around other students. Day by day, I felt isolated and unwanted. Years later, in 8th grade at Orkeeswa School, I joined Story Lab where I learned film production: from learning how to hold a camera to filming and editing. I wanted to learn how stories, like my own, could create change. My team and I explored how we could turn stories like mine into a form of advocacy that would give a voice to students facing similar struggles.” – Joshua

“When we began the production of Lais, I never imagined how much it would change the way I see myself and my ideas. During filming, I mostly worked with the camera and slated scenes, and sometimes stepped in to support the producer. My team and I worked together to discuss story ideas and scenes. Through these discussions, I learned that even if an idea is not perfect at first, it can become stronger when people work on it together. I became more comfortable to share my thoughts with the team and listen to theirs. Seeing people watch and connect with our work showed me how powerful storytelling can be. Right now, I feel more confident leading group activities and organizing people to work together.” – Agness 

 “Before this project, I had never been trained in sound production. But in Story Lab, I learned sound recording and realized how much patience and attention filmmaking requires. In creating Lais, we wanted to show the community how bullying affects children and stops them from reaching their dreams. When a child drops out of school because of bullying, it does not only affect that child but the whole community and the future they could have created. Filmmaking allows us to express our ideas and share stories that matter in our community.” – Maureen