Why FilmAid Works
FilmAid International addresses the frequently neglected problems of refugee despair and psychological trauma. FilmAid uses the power of film to break monotony and isolation, as well as to convey essential information. Movies help to restore dignity, quality of life, and hope which have been missing in the lives of refugees who often remain in camps for years. FilmAid's initiatives have the following goals:
Educate and Inform
FilmAid screens educational films on topics central to the refugee experience, including HIV and AIDS awareness, reproductive health, sexual and gender-based violence, sexually transmitted diseases, human rights, conflict resolution, land mine awareness and repatriation.
Entertain
FilmAid shows films that feed the soul, spirit and imagination. FilmAid carefully selects nonviolent, family-oriented films that are culturally appropriate, with extensive input from refugees themselves. FilmAid screenings bring hope while alleviating problems of psychosocial trauma, isolation and despair. Through these shared positive experiences, a sense of community is created.
Provide Employment and Skills Training
FilmAid trains and employs refugees to operate its programs, promoting self-sufficiency and empowerment. Using camcorders, FilmAid also teaches basic filmmaking skills so that refugees can tell their own stories and educate their own communities.
Raise Awareness
Through celebrity advocacy and involvement, FilmAid raises awareness of the global refugee crisis.
Experts from the Center for International Health and Development at Boston University's School of Public Health recently conducted an independent evaluation of FilmAid's programs in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya. Click here to learn more about the impact of FilmAid's work in Kakuma, click here to view the Final Report (pdf)…
