Wantok Stori

Wantok Stori - Culture in Harmony with Nature is a community filmmaking project. We ask for your support towards the next phase of our program.

Since 2011 Wantok Stori has brought together Victorian Pacific community and young people of the Solomon Islands.

In April 2012, artists, Amie Batalibasi (Solomon Islands / Australia) and Lisa Hilli (Papua New Guinea / Australia) joined Adriel Tahisi (Solomon Islands) and 8 young people in Honiara, Solomon Islands to begin creating a film that explores the theme ‘Culture In Harmony with Nature’. This is the theme of the Festival of Pacific Arts 2012 to be held in Honiara in July.

So far this process has been a UNIQUE and TREASURED experience for both the Victorian Pacific community and young people in the Solomons. This project has forged new partnerships, friendships and working relationships and a meaningful exchange of culture and skills. See www.facebook.com/wantokstori

By donating, you will help us to complete this project.

Here are some thoughts from those involved in the project so far.

‘It was so wonderful to be teaching my community. Working and training alongside Pacific people is an absolute dream for me and I hope to do more of it.’ (Artist / Facilitator, Melbourne, May)

‘It was a privilege to share stories with the wonderful Solomon Island participants. They really showed absolute dedication to learning and applying their film making skills. And I hope that they feel empowered to continue and build the film industry in the Solomon Islands.’ (Artist / Facilitator, Melbourne, May)

‘This is just the beginning of a life changing experience for me in film making.’ (Participant, Honiara, April)

‘Amie and Lisa thank you so very much for giving your precious time helping us out...your contribution in the film industry here in the Solomons will be treasured.’ (Participant, Honiara, April)

‘The most interesting day I've had in years was today…and its only the first...yeeah!’ (Participant, Honiara, April)

‘Great staff for great training...its encouraging to know that independent film makers can achieve great things for S.I...Thank you team...loving it.’ (Participant, Honiara, April)