Guiding Principles for Storytelling and Travel
A Framework for What Matters Most
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.
#1 THE PURPOSE OF TRAVEL IS TO LEARN
Travel is an opportunity to step into someone else’s reality. For us, it’s about understanding—not sightseeing. Learning happens when we ask real questions, pay attention to details, and let go of assumptions. On our trips, this means taking the time to observe and listen before acting, and staying open to perspectives that challenge what we think we know.
#2 RELATIONSHIPS ARE THE PRIORITY
The success of any project depends on the strength of the relationships behind it. Whether we’re working with changemakers, crew members, or local communities, we prioritize building trust. This means showing up with respect, keeping commitments, and understanding that the people we work with aren’t just contributors to a project—they’re partners.
#3 GROWTH REQUIRES FRICTION
Growth doesn’t happen when everything runs smoothly. It’s the friction—the challenges, obstacles, and resistance—that pushes us to develop new skills and perspectives. Whether it’s navigating a new culture, finding common ground in creative disagreements, or facing unexpected setbacks, these moments of friction are where real progress is made. In our work, we expect these moments and recognize them as essential opportunities for development and progress.
#4 COLLABORATION LEADS TO GREATER CREATVITY
The best ideas rarely come from one person. Collaboration brings together different perspectives, skills, and experiences to create something stronger. On our teams, this means sharing responsibilities, seeking input, and being open to feedback. Collaboration isn’t always smooth, but it consistently leads to results that are richer and more meaningful.
#5 PROCESS IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE PRODUCT
What you create matters, but how you get there matters more. The value of any experience—whether it’s a documentary project or a trip—comes from the time spent building relationships, making decisions, and navigating challenges. Even if the final product doesn’t turn out exactly as planned, the lessons learned and the connections made along the way are what truly last. Focusing on the process ensures that the experience is meaningful, regardless of the outcome.
#6 SOLUTION STORIES MATTER MOST
We focus on stories that highlight how problems are being addressed. These aren’t stories about what’s broken—they’re about the people working to fix things. Telling these stories isn’t about painting a perfect picture; it’s about showing what’s possible and giving recognition to those taking action.
#7 TRUE CONSENT CAN ALWAYS BE WITHDRAWN
Consent is never a one-time agreement. Anyone who participates in our projects has the right to change their mind at any point. If someone no longer wants their story to be told, we respect that—even if it’s inconvenient. This principle keeps the power where it belongs: with the people whose stories we tell.
#8 STORYTELLERS HAVE POWER AND THAT COMES WITH RESPONSIBILITY
Telling someone’s story isn’t neutral—it shapes how others see them. With that power comes responsibility. For us, this means being accurate, fair, and thoughtful about the impact of our work. It also means avoiding sensationalism or oversimplification and focusing on representing people as they are—not as we think they should be.