INSPIRING CHANGE Through Storytelling WORKSHOP

by Breakthrough Movement

Empowering young Cambodian storytellers to challenge gender stereotypes through film and digital advocacy.

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Through storytelling and filmmaking, young Cambodian advocates are challenging gender norms and sharing stories that are often left unheard. Inspiring Change brought together 11 participants—including women, LGBTQI+ individuals, and allies under 30—to explore feminism, gender stereotypes, and the power of personal narratives to drive social change.

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Two workshops in Phnom Penh—February 25–26, 2023, and March 4–5, 2023—guided participants through key concepts of gender, feminism, and storytelling, as well as the filmmaking process. Interactive discussions, creative exercises, and hands-on learning allowed participants to transform real-life experiences into powerful narratives.

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Following the workshops, participants formed teams and produced two short films:

• “Be Open” tackles menstruation stigma, following a female student navigating her period during an exam, complemented by interviews with students, educators, and community members advocating inclusion.

• “The Nature of Feelings” explores LGBTQI+ relationships, sharing the challenges, emotions, and resilience of individuals facing family and social pressures.

Both films reached tens of thousands online—“Be Open” reached 104,000 people and “The Nature of Feelings” 69,000—sparking conversation and inspiring communities.

With mentorship and support from Breakthrough, participants not only created impactful films but also led social media campaigns, amplifying their voices and becoming a new generation of young advocates for gender equality in Cambodia.