STORYHIVE Voices Digital Content Creators share their program journeys

Creating a new screen-based project from start-to-finish is no easy feat. Whether it’s a short film, series or live stream, there are tons of considerations when pitching your project: cinematography, editing and capturing and sorting through tons of B-roll are just the start. So, we feel incredibly proud of the work that the digital content creators selected for the STORYHIVE Voices program are doing as they package and prepare an entire series! 

They let us in on their behind-the-scenes journeys, giving us a taste of their upcoming projects.

Let’s meet them now! 

Laura Kelsey | Found in Sound

Join Nanaimo musician Laura Kelsey as she explores the world of sound. Found in Sound includes interviews from Vancouver Island sound and music therapists; musicians and dancers; and a physics instructor who shares stories and examples of their work dedicated to learning how sound can positively affect people.

Laura’s big learnings from the project

“Sometimes you get a great shot without trying too hard! I wanted to record the sound of rain, and it was recently the autumn’s first big rain storm. I set out the camera with a lapel mic undercover and within two minutes the camera caught an awesome jolt of lightning across the sky.”

What she wants audiences to know about the project

“I want audiences to know that this series is an exploration of many ways sound can be helpful to human health.”

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at Laura interviewing Linda Edwards, owner of The Healing Nest in Nanaimo, B.C.

Mitch George | Rental Rewind Season 2 - The Game Night - Video Game Show! 

In Rental Rewind, contestants step into the virtual world as they compete in video game battles using robots and challenge their knowledge with gaming trivia, taking a nostalgic journey through gaming history in this action-packed YTV-inspired game show.

Mitch’s big learnings from the project

“Remember that failure is okay. You will make mistakes, be patient with your project, and with yourself. Patience and attention to detail can turn a good thing into a great thing. It's all about finding the right balance and prioritizing what truly matters in the creative process.”

What he wants audiences to know about the project

“We are creating a brand new way to interact and watch TV. We want viewers to get involved regardless of their circumstances, which is why we made it online. We also wanted folks to engage with the show even when they aren’t contestants. Our world is changing and that means we need to change the way we create, and consume media. That’s what we’re trying to do with Rental Rewind.”

Check out this behind-the-scenes shot of the crew building virtual games and interactive robots that audiences can engage with on the show—LIVE!

Gerald Pagdato | Finding Our Rhythm

A group of friends finds solace in their shared love for music amidst life's pressures. As they form a band, they navigate songwriting, performance and self-doubt. Through their musical journey, they forge a strong bond, transforming individually and collectively, while discovering the true power of friendship, passion and the impact of following one's dreams.

Gerald’s big learnings from the project

“As anyone in the industry will tell you, time is of the essence, and that becomes doubly true when you're coordinating multiple interviews, band practices and technical sessions. A detailed shot list has been indispensable, allowing us to capture elements that will make the story compelling, from closeups of the musicians in their element to wide shots that give a sense of space and atmosphere.”

What he wants audiences to know about the project

“We want audiences to know that our project is not just a behind-the-scenes look at a band making an album—it's a journey through dreams, struggles and community. We dive into the hearts and minds of each band member, exploring their individual and collective aspirations. Our documentary also places a spotlight on the unseen heroes like band managers and sound technicians who make the dream possible. It's a multi-layered narrative that captures the essence of creativity and collaboration. We believe it's a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever dared to chase a dream.”

Check out this behind-the-scenes shot captured in a candid moment, in which members of the band come together in a relaxed setting, showcasing the camaraderie and dynamics of their musical family.

Ije Nnabuo | Untold Stories of Muslim Women in Edmonton 

Step into the life of eight diverse Muslim women and experience a day in their lives.

Ije’s big learnings from the project

“Take some headshots photos of the cast/subjects during film day as these will be helpful for social media promotion and posts.”

What she wants audiences to know about the project

“Whether or not you are a Muslim, this film is for you. The stories of these eight Muslim women highlight the remarkable work that Edmontonian Muslims are taking towards overcoming trauma and fostering inclusivity in our communities.”

Go behind the scenes with Ije and her team as they interview Muslim women.

Imran Hayre | Our Grandparents’ Shadows 

This six-part docuseries highlights the lives of Punjabi seniors and youth living in Surrey and exploring their cultural heritage through their day-to-day lives and passions.

Imran’s big learnings from the project

“The biggest lesson we’ve learned is that some shots will take a lot longer than you expect and to always leave extra time to get the shot you need. Also learning to use our equipment before bringing it on to set!”

What she wants audiences to know about the series

“We want the audience to know that showcasing Punjabi voices in our community is so special to us and we look forward to sharing it with everyone.”

Here’s Imran testing out different angles to find the perfect shot on shooting day!

Now that you’ve met a few of the digital content creators from the STORYHIVE Voices Program, we hope you’ll stay tuned for their big premiere in 2024.

If this has inspired you to start your own content creation journey, check out our upcoming grants in our recent blog post here.