Storytelling for social change: The bridge between art and advocacy

Rue de Carouge 52, 1205 Genève
Stories shape our belief in what is possible. It makes sense, then, that documentary filmmaking offers a critical tool in exposing and addressing human rights abuses and injustice. Transforming what can seem like intractable issues and abstract facts and figures into compelling stories of struggle, hope, and resilience can help us see ourselves and each other anew–sparking empathy and driving meaningful action.
For Jenni Wolfson, CEO of Chicken & Egg Films (US), this keynote is personal. Drawing on her journey from UN human rights investigator to nonprofit leader and storytelling advocate, Jenni will share insights she’s gained from her over 20 years of narrative-driven work, which has included writing and performing her own story and supporting human rights defenders, citizen journalists, and filmmakers.
Focusing on themes of authorship, representation, ethics, and accountability, the heart of this keynote is about who gets to tell a story and how it gets told with care. By sharing case studies of innovative documentary impact campaigns, Jenni will demonstrate how storytelling can bridge understanding and compel audiences to become advocates. Join her in exploring the ways film can reflect an authentic commitment to ethical storytelling and invite true participation in social change as a result.