Introduction

In February 2022, One Tech Nepal took a significant step towards empowering children in Dhading through a digital filmmaking workshop. This initiative allowed students at Sunkanya School to explore the world of filmmaking, express their creativity, and raise awareness about important social issues through short films. The workshop, led by industry professionals, provided students with the tools to tell their stories and engage in pressing social topics such as women's rights and poverty.

The Workshop and Its Impact

The filmmaking workshop was designed to give students a platform to express themselves and learn the basic skills of filmmaking. With a focus on several Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) themes, the students were able to create films that not only highlighted their creativity but also addressed significant issues within their community. The workshop was divided into key lessons that covered:

• Scriptwriting
• Storyboarding
• Cinematography
• Camera operation

These skills provided the students with a thorough understanding of how films are made, from the initial concept to final production.

The Women's Rights Short Film

Led by Rashmita Limbu, one of the co-founders of One Corporation, Mitra Films, and One Youth, a group of students chose to focus on the theme of women's rights. Rashmita guided the team through the entire filmmaking process, from developing the script to shooting and editing the film. The students created a powerful short film that explored important themes of gender equality and women empowerment, learning how to use the camera and digital tools to bring their ideas to life.

Watch Rashmita’s team movie here: Normal and Healthy – Women Empowerment

The Poverty-Themed Short Film

Another group, led by Jasper Neupane, co-founder of One Corporation and Mitra Films, worked on a short film that addressed the theme of poverty. The students created the film "Sharing is Love" after learning the basics of camera operation and film production. Jasper's guidance ensured that students were involved in every stage of the filmmaking process, from filming to editing. The final product was a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of sharing a message of empathy and kindness.

Watch Jasper’s team movie here: Sharing is Love – Poverty

Our Goal and Vision

The primary goal of this CSR initiative was simple: to empower rural students with the knowledge and skills to use available tools, like mobile phones, to tell their stories. Through digital filmmaking, the children were able to address pressing community issues while exploring the creative potential within themselves. By providing this platform, One Tech Nepal is encouraging students to think critically, use technology as a tool for expression, and continue making a difference in their communities.

Conclusion

The digital filmmaking workshop at Sunkanya School in Dhading was a resounding success. It provided children with the opportunity to learn a new skill, explore vital social issues, and contribute to the conversation on women's rights and poverty. As part of One Tech Nepal’s ongoing CSR efforts, this initiative reinforced the importance of education, creativity, and the use of technology in rural communities.

We are proud of the students’ work and look forward to continuing our efforts to empower young minds through innovative educational initiatives.