Imagine a world where you can transform your profound life experiences into powerful narratives that resonate with others. That's exactly what we explore with guest, Bobbi Fridfinnson, from Wellspring Alberta, a charity that supports individuals with cancer and their caregivers through a variety of programs, including digital storytelling workshops. These workshops, originally spearheaded by Mike Lang, have blossomed into a vital space for participants to share their stories and foster a sense of community through the power of voiceover narration and personal imagery.

We dive into the transformation of Wellspring’s digital storytelling program, now an eight-week immersive experience led by Melody Williamson. We spotlight poignant tales like Natalie's Story, where the adversity of a cancer diagnosis intertwines with the opportunities to engage with youth. These workshops aren't just about creating stories; they're about creating connections. During our conversation, we bring to light the touching group camaraderie that emerges during final screenings. This sense of achievement and solidarity proves that storytelling is not just a creative outlet but a therapeutic lifeline for many.

We also delve into how these narratives leap beyond workshops into broader platforms like film festivals, offering a richer experience than simply viewing stories online. By distilling complex life experiences into concise narratives, participants share profound insights and spark meaningful dialogue. This episode affirms the transformative power of storytelling as a tool for healing and connection, reminding us all of the impact that sharing our truths can have on the world.

Top 5 Key Messages

1. What is Wellspring Alberta? (0:56)

2. Digital Storytelling at Wellspring (3:37)

3. Impact of Digital Storytelling (8:25)

4. Community and Diversity in Workshops (15:48)

5. Wellspring's Film Festival (16:59)

Other Links Mentioned

• Watch more digital stories from Wellspring members
• Explore writing & storytelling programs at Wellspring
• Read this episode's blog post
• Watch the Ep 19 Looking Back video with Mike Lang & Kristy Wolfe

Connect with Bobbi Fridfinnson here.

If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.

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