People roll their eyes at the term “influencer,” but many people trust influencers over mainstream news.
A new project aims to enable more diverse voices to get online to make a positive difference through training people with a range of content creation skills so that they can earn paid work, voluntary opportunities and experience online as well as in their community.
The idea founded by social enterprise Sparkle Community Media CIC funded by WDHCS will empower people with lived experience to find and share stories about their own community and the issues which matter most to them.
Journalist, Vlogger and Founder of Sparkle Community Media CIC Sophie Mei Lan said:
“Imagine a world where there were more diverse voices online and people connecting on the internet and in person.
It’s about developing content creators rather than consumers of digital content.
The reality is powerful digital content can influence and can transform communities but in a positive way when there are more people who are experts by lived experience.
“If you want to become a change maker, learn how to create media content with meaning as well as getting your work published, now’s your chance.
“We’re searching for Community Influencers from all walks of life to join us. There will also be paid work opportunities for those completing the training as well as certificates for all.”
Sparkle Community Media CIC was founded to encourage more community media projects up north providing magazines, multimedia training and opportunities for people up north to use their own lived experience to create change in the world through online and in print media.
The social enterprise based in Wakefield at The Ridings Shopping Centre runs a range of publications (Yorkshire Families Magazine, Sparkle Up North – guide to Northern England and Impact Magazine for social enterprises and community focused organisations) as well as running a range of training for community organisations and those they serve.
They also have a content creators studio for influencers, community groups and a range of online channels.
For more information, email: [email protected] and follow us online @SparkleCIC