At Actuality Abroad, the way we approach our work is rooted in clear principles. These aren’t abstract ideas or feel-good slogans—they’re practical guidelines that shape how we operate, collaborate, and create. These principles help us make decisions, set expectations, and hold ourselves accountable, whether we’re on location, in the editing room, or working with changemakers. Here’s a closer look at what drives us and why it matters.
Leading a university group trip abroad transforms academic learning into meaningful, real-world experiences. By immersing students in new cultures and challenges, these programs inspire personal growth, develop practical skills, and deepen their understanding of the subject matter. Adding documentary storytelling takes this impact even further—it’s a way for students to engage with local communities, listen deeply, and create stories that resonate long after the trip ends.
Planning a trip like this can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time navigating the logistics. That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve broken the process into clear, actionable steps, making it easier to envision the journey from start to finish.
Starting a crowdfunding campaign can feel like a big ask, especially when it involves reaching out to people you know. But this isn’t just about raising funds; it’s about inviting people who’ve been part of your story to help shape this next chapter. Think of this as an opportunity to learn storytelling on a whole new level—one where you’re building relationships and making an impact long before you even hit “record.” This guide will help you move through every step with confidence, clarity, and a sense of purpose.
Who truly owns a story? In today’s media landscape, we’re often led to believe that stories belong to those who ‘capture’ them—the person behind the camera or holding the pen. But when it comes to telling stories about real people and real-life events, the lines of ownership and responsibility become far more complex.
As ethical storytellers, our role isn’t just to craft narratives; it’s to ensure we are telling them with integrity, protecting the vulnerable, and giving voice to those whose stories we share. This requires more than just technical skill—it demands empathy, listening, and a deep awareness of how our own perspectives shape the way we approach each story.
Before embarking on any storytelling project, it’s essential to engage with the ideas and practices of ethical storytelling. Below, we’ve curated a collection of resources that we believe are fundamental for anyone seeking to tell truthful, respectful, and impactful stories.
Are you thinking about making a documentary but don’t know where to start? This guide will show you what steps you can to take to make meaningful progress on your passion project and how to begin crafting it into an story that can make an impact.