Film as a Catalyst for Social Change
Visual storytelling isn’t just about what we see—it’s about what we feel, understand, and remember. In a world inundated with information, film and image remain among the most powerful tools we have to shift perceptions, deepen empathy, and inspire action.
This dynamic, three-part session brings together filmmakers, creatives, and social changemakers to explore the power of cinema and storytelling as instruments of impact. Through personal reflections, film screenings, and audience dialogue, we will move beyond passive watching into active witnessing, deep listening, and meaningful response.
Act 1: The Art and Urgency of Storytelling
Presented by Mori Thomson
Award-winning commercial director and social impact filmmaker
From crafting emotional commercial campaigns to directing hard-hitting narrative short films, Mori shares his journey through visual storytelling—how the language of images can shape perception, build empathy, and create lasting change, engaging the audience in their lived experience.
Case studies include:
30 Years of The Big Issue advertising campaign
MFITI – Mori’s upcoming short film on obstetric fistula in Malawi
Desert Flower, based on Waris Dirie’s life and activism
Act 2: Dreams On Edge by Damilola Onafuwa
Presented by Damiola Onafuwa
Nigerian filmmaker and social innovator, Damilola Onafuwa presents Dreams On Edge, the story of Taiwo—a young man born in Makoko, Lagos—who builds a school and orphanage while facing the constant threat of eviction.
Through this lens, Damilola explores how community-rooted narratives can reframe our understanding of resilience, resistance, and dignity.
Following the film, Damilola will share insights on using visual media to offer windows into other realities—and shift global understanding through local truth.
Act 3: All Other Passports – Stories of Visa Inequality
Presented by LAGO Collective and Oroko Radio
In collaboration with Moleskine Foundation
Grounded in data on visa rejection rates, this powerful short film directed by PRJCT.Kumasi spotlights the personal stories of African artists navigating a world of unequal and restricted mobility.
Following the screening, we’ll host a reflective listening session to explore:
Structural inequality in global visa systems
The impact of exclusion for creatives
Strategies for collective action and systemic change
Who Should Attend
Filmmakers, artists, and storytellers using media for impact
Funders and practitioners supporting cultural and community change
Policy advocates, researchers, and educators
Anyone interested in the intersection of creativity, justice, and visibility.
Session Co-Leaders:
Damilola Onafuwa – Filmmaker and social innovator focused on using the power of stories and creativity for community-driven development across Africa. Founder of StoryMaxima and Aroba Foundation.
Marta Foresti – Founder and CEO, LAGO Collective. Leader in global development, migration policy and creative industries
Kikelolomo Oludemi – Co-founder of Oroko Radio, DJ, presenter, host and community builder.
Mori Thomson – Film director and writer working across commercials, music videos, and film, with over a decade of experience and strong editing expertise.
This event is free and open to all. Come curious, and leave changed.