Together, We Brought The First Common Language Story Slam To Life!

We saw love in all of these stories. There’s this concept of the beloved community, and we also saw communities come in and step in and care for people….I really think that’s part of why digital stories can be so powerful because we are all part of now understanding these stories and resonating.
— Dr. Carmen Logie, Canada Research Chair in Global Health Equity and Social Justice

The 2025 Common Language Story Slam brought together diverse communities for a one-day festival with inspiring stories and conversation, highlighting the potential of digital storytelling with non-profits.

With the option to join online or in person, the Story Slam reached global audiences. It was a day of connection, learning, and conversation with the people and organizations who are making a difference through digital storytelling in health and wellness. It was also the first time the Common Language Facilitators Collective has come together to share the breadth of work that is making an impact by elevating individual and collective voices.

Highlights:   

  • Meeting a group of like-minded folks who lead with compassion.

  • Unexpected and delightful conversations.

  • Making new friends on the sun-drenched patio over lunch.

  • Laughing around a long table with the CLDST facilitators group.


Words From Our Attendees

"Storytelling is a type of medicine - so healing for both storyteller and listeners. Thank you for facilitating the amazing art medicine for all, especially the youth.” - C. Myers

“I was blown away by all the digital stories presented today. I am immensely impressed with the stories, the storytellers, and the facilitators. - C. Morgan

“This whole event is breathing life and hope back into my life. These times have been divisive and feel isolating. Nice to be in a space full of empathy and compassion” - T. Bilau-Howie


Photos From The Day


Podcast Key Messages

0:00 Story Slam Success & Impact

3:30 Powerful Stories, Genuine Conversations

10:45 1st Screening: Breaking Stigma

15:50 2nd Screening: Living Well Through Challenges

21:45 3rd Screening: Organizations Using Digital Stories

27:10 The Future of Digital Storytelling Events


Participating Organizations

Mom’s Stop The Harm www.momsstoptheharm.com

Safe Families Canada www.safefamiliescanada.com

Healthy Child Uganda www.healthychilduganda.org

Canadian Cancer Society www.cancer.ca

Wellspring Alberta www.wellspring.ca/alberta

McCormick Care Group www.mccormickcaregroup.ca

Bow Valley Connections Centre www.bowvalleyconnectionscentre.com

BC Complex Kids www.bccomplexkids.ca

MAiD Family Support Society www.maidfamilysupport.ca

Sids Calgary Society www.sidscalgary.ca

Greg’s Wings www.gregswings.ca


Krystle Schofield

Krystle Schofield is Level 2 Common Language Digital Storytelling Facilitator and Photographer. Her commissioned projects and workshops help people to be seen and heard in their lived experience. With a background in design, education and healthcare, it is her goal to use the powerful mediums of digital storytelling and photography as catalysts for positive change.

https://www.krystleschofield.com
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Multiple Perspectives: Stories in Medicine