Media, Public Storytelling and Social Justice: An Introduction to FOMACS, Forum on Migration and Communications

This case study, commissioned by Atlantic Philanthropies, presents snapshots of projects demonstrating how The Forum on Migration and Communications (FOMACS) strengthens the voices of migrants and NGOs who work in the migrant sector by using collaboration, creative arts, digital media and storytelling as catalysts for social change, advocacy and educational transformation.

• Flexibility is critical. the Forum on Migration and Communications' (FOMAC) ability to work with different organisations, individuals and networks; to respond to emerging opportunities; and to adapt its programme emphases in response to external changes (such as a rapid economic downturn) so as to remain focused on the overall programme goals and objectives. Tweet
• Trust, fostered through genuine collaboration in which reflection is a springboard for future action has been a key success factor. Tweet
• Professional expertise has added value by signalling new directions for innovation, and deploying creative and technical expertise to generate products that give an authentic voice to the migrant experience. Tweet
• Thoughtful, collaborative academic insight and rigour and the valuing of community-based practice as a basis for engaging theory has contributed to success. Tweet
• A learning orientation is critical. Producing insight and knowledge as part of media planning, origination, production and curation, and fostering authenticity and inclusiveness in all these processes. Tweet
• A collaborative approach has been essential. Valuing the inputs from a diverse range of sources, many of whom have direct experience of migration or other social justice issues. Tweet
• Reciprocal benefit is critical. Reciprocity is a rhythm that permeates all the Forum on Migration and Communications' (FOMAC) activities, and is key to sustaining the ongoing investment that partners and associates bring to the FOMACS enterprise. Tweet