I have recently been running an online film making course with women from Shelanu, a collective of migrant and refugee women working with Craftspace to develop craft skills, confidence and well-being through social enterprise.
Shelanu means ‘belonging to us’, which seemed a really good starting point for developing an online course. Members of the craft collective are looking to create short ‘how-to’ films to share their craft-making with one another and a wider audience too. I was keen to guide the group to explore film making in a way that felt right for them, rather than provide them with a set of hard and fast rules.
Over the course of two online sessions we explored why we wanted to make films, had a play around with camera angles, shared top tips, dipped into film editing and created some short films which we shared with one another. I was really impressed with how willing everyone was to have a go – no doubt testament to what a tight-knit group Shelanu are.
They will now be taking that learning forward into their work to promote their work and share skills with others. I’m really excited to see what this wonderfully talented and creative group create. Thanks to all of the group members for welcoming me and to Emma from Craftspace for bringing me on board.
You can find out more about Shelanu on Craftspace’s website. You can also browse and buy some of their gorgeous craftwork (including stunning origami earrings and migrating birds jewellery!) on Craftspace’s online shop.