Reflection of Double Feature: Stories of Engagement
“Positive and inspiring influences on the new generations. Ngā mihi nui ki a kōrua”
Reflecting on the Power of Storytelling: A Night of Connection at the "Double Feature"
Wednesday 28th February evening, a quiet but powerful energy filled the room of Rehua, the Community Engagement Hub at the University of Canterbury as 32 members of our community gathered for Double Feature: Stories of Engagement. This wasn't just a film screening; it was a celebratory "full circle" moment for the storytellers, students, and community partners who have spent the last year exploring the impact of narrative design in Ōtautahi.
In partnership with the University of Canterbury (CHCH101), Digital Storytellers, and Seed The Change | He Kākano Hāpai, we hosted an evening that proved storytelling doesn’t just document change—it creates it.
The heart of the evening was the showcase of ten micro-short films. These, roughly, 2-minute and 30-second windows into local life were produced through the Stories for Impact workshops and the UC CHCH101 course.
A particularly moving highlight was a guest screening from a Year 2 student at Ao Tawhiti Unlimited Discovery, reminding us that the impulse to share our lived experience starts young and remains a vital part of how we make meaning of our city. Each film acted as a mirror, reflecting the unique voices, places, and identities that define our neighborhoods.
Beyond the screen, the event facilitated a deep dive into the ethics and responsibility of storytelling. Facilitated by Billy Osteen, a powerhouse panel featuring Heather Milne (Heather Joy Photographs), Sarah Mankelow (Humans of Christchurch Ōtautahi), and Tarryn Ryan (Kōrero ki Ōtautahi) unpacked the concept of Narrative Sovereignty.
Through this discussion, the panelists unpacked:
Representation: What does it mean for a community to see itself reflected back on the big screen?
Social Cohesion: How can digital stories act as a bridge between diverse groups?
Identity: The role of storytelling in shaping the evolving identity of a post-quake city.
The consensus was clear: when we tell stories with people rather than about them, we foster a deeper sense of belonging and agency. And when spaces are actively putting perceived profit of a story above people, is when we need to stay true to these values the most.
The evening concluded with a celebratory mingle, where the audience—a mix of students, community leaders, and film enthusiasts—connected over catering and conversation. It was a tangible example of the "social glue" that #LearningWithStories can provide.
We want to extend a huge thank you to our partners and to Jonny Knopp - Peanut Productions for capturing the spirit of the night through his lens. Most importantly, thank you to the storytellers who had the courage to share their visions with us.
Storytelling is a collective act. We look forward to seeing how these narratives continue to spark change across our city.