Communication for Social Change and Participatory Video as Tools to Empower Youth and Foster Social Change in Southern Ecuador

• In Event: Children, Adolescents, and Media: Research Escalator 2

Abstract

This paper presents research findings from a field research that analyzes the possibilities and limitations of Communication for Social Change (CFSC) and Participatory Video (PV) among youth of three rural communities in Loja Province (southern Ecuador). Conducted as part of the Healthy Living Initiative (HLI), project led by the Tropical Disease Institute at Ohio University. It was identified that the participation of young people from the communities of Bella Maria, Chaquizhca and Guara was limited and usually led by the interests of the adults. Aiming to break these patterns of marginalization, this research-based intervention focused on how CFSC-PV could promote reflexivity on collective identity and foster citizen participation among the youth in order to engage the active agents of the sustainable development of their communities. The results of the research will lead to the creation of a new model for scholars and practitioners understanding of young people’s participation on community issues.

Author

• Jessica Gonzalez Herrera, Ohio University - elParlante