Grassroots Journalism: Digital Lab

Grassroots Journalism course empowers young women (ages 15-30) by bringing about positive changes in their perspective surrounding self, society and system. Over six months, participants master writing, photography, videography, and digital storytelling while delving into critical topics such as civil rights, constitutional law, cybercrime, gender issues, and politics. Each participant receives a “Smart Kit” and utilizes mobile phones to document and share compelling stories that resonate within their communities.
Since its inception, 54 young women have formed two cohorts (2021-2023) to contribute articles to prominent national level media platforms like Charkha Feature Services, Feminism In India, and Chambal Media. This initiative not only enhances their journalistic skills but also cultivates confident leaders who drive social change and advocate for justice. The program features a dynamic curriculum that includes mobile learning, social media activism, photography, videography, and scriptwriting.

Digital (Media) Lab

A digital (Media) lab has been established to provide valuable technical training and resources to the girls. This initiative was conceptualized to provide valuable technical support to the girls as well as to lay down the groundwork for potential financial independence. The participants learn to manage the lab independently and many of these young girls at risk of child marriage have emerged as filmmakers, producing short films that reflect their personal journeys and address pressing societal issues.

More than 30 films have been created and many of these films have been streamed at community level, state level film festivals and various digital platforms. These young women now redefine their roles and challenge traditional gender norms, paving the way for a more equitable society bringing forth a transformative change in the media narrative.