Nineteen participants (12 males and 7 females) attended the event, representing four ALiSEA member organizations: Karuna Myanmar Social Services (KMSS), SWISSAID-Myanmar, Myanmar Institute for Integrated Development (MIID), and GRET. Additionally, four partner organizations affiliated with ALiSEA members—Shwe Danu, POINT, Htar Wa Ya Alin, and Taung Chun Myay—were represented under the coordination of Alin Ein, SWISSAID-Myanmar, and the Samdhana Institute.

The exchange group also had the opportunity to engage with 10 farmers (1 male and 9 females) from Koloni and Khauk Ohe villages. Participants observed household-level seed saving and storage practices and learned firsthand how these farmers preserve heirloom seeds for future planting seasons.

The event began with an introduction by the ALiSEA-Myanmar National Coordinator, who provided an overview of ALiSEA and its support for member organizations. This was followed by an outline of the seed saving and storage series, along with the main objectives and plan for the exchange visit.

During the visit, participants gained insights into local community practices through group discussions and on-site field observations. Knowledge and experiences were exchanged between participants and villagers, enriching understanding of diverse seed saving practices across different areas.

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What made this initiative truly inspiring was its inclusive approach. While 20% of participants entered with zero video creation experience, the program welcomed everyone equally, creating a supportive learning environment where complete beginners worked alongside more experienced creators. The gender-balanced group of 10 men and 7 women brought diverse perspectives that enriched the collective learning experience.

The comprehensive curriculum went beyond basic technical skills, covering smartphone camera features, filming techniques, scriptwriting, and sound setup. Participants engaged in hands-on practice after each lesson, followed by reflective bilateral sessions with trainers where they discussed their experiences and received personalized feedback. This blend of technical instruction and practical application built both competence and confidence.

Despite the challenges of virtual learning – missing hands-on equipment demonstrations and direct collaboration – the program adapted creatively. Trainers maintained engagement by reviewing submitted work and providing detailed responses, ensuring interactive learning continued. The training’s productivity was evident in the 11 videos created during the workshop, each representing progress in participants’ video creation journey.

The true success of this program lies not just in the technical skills acquired, but in the confidence it built among participants. By demystifying video creation through accessible smartphone technology, ALiSEA equipped its member organizations with powerful tools for advocacy and community engagement. Participants left the training empowered to amplify their voices and share their stories, transforming their smartphones into instruments of positive change. This initiative demonstrates that meaningful capacity building can happen anywhere, with any device, when supported by thoughtful instruction and community spirit.

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