SADC: The V&C Summit through the lens of a creator
There are moments when collective voices come together and remind us that change is not abstract; it is lived, shared, and documented. Attending the Voice and Choice Summit hosted by Gender Links was one of those moments. Individuals and organizations gathered not only to celebrate the progress made in advancing gender justice, but also to reflect critically on the work that still lies ahead. The summit created a space where knowledge was exchanged openly, grounded in real experiences from communities across the Southern African region.
The programme featured a range of presentations, including Stories of Change, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), leadership development, and strategies for sustainable social change. Each session was rooted in practical realities. Participants shared interventions that have worked in their contexts, as well as the challenges they continue to face in addressing gender-based violence, inequality, and limited access to resources.
What stood out most was the power of storytelling. Stories of Change sessions highlighted how individuals and organizations have transformed their communities through advocacy, education, and resilience. These were not abstract success stories; they were grounded accounts of persistence, collaboration, and incremental progress.
As an intern responsible for capturing video content throughout the summit, I experienced these stories from a different perspective. Filming sessions, interviews, and candid moments allowed me to observe not only what was being said, but how it was being expressed. The pauses, emotions, and interactions between participants added layers of meaning that written reports alone cannot fully convey.
This experience deepened my understanding of storytelling as a tool for reflection and accountability. Video documentation creates a living archive. It allows organizations to revisit their work, measure impact, and share knowledge beyond the physical space of the summit. In many ways, it extends the life of the conversations that take place.
One moment that stayed with me was during a Stories of Change presentation where a community leader spoke about the gradual shift in attitudes towards gender-based violence in her area. As she spoke, there was a quiet attentiveness in the room. It was a reminder that change often begins with conversations that challenge deeply rooted norms.
Capturing that moment on camera felt significant. It was not just about recording an event, but about preserving a piece of lived reality that could inform and inspire others. It reinforced the idea that storytelling, especially through video, is a powerful tool for both reflection and advocacy.
The Voice and Choice Summit ultimately highlighted the importance of collective learning. It showed that while organizations may work in different contexts, their goals are interconnected. Sharing strategies, challenges, and successes strengthens the broader movement for gender justice.
For me, the experience was both professional and personal. It strengthened my appreciation for the role of media in development work and highlighted the responsibility that comes with documenting real stories. It also affirmed that every voice, when given space, contributes to shaping more inclusive and equitable societies.
(Written by Paballo Koeli, a WVLSA intern)
