Heather Knox: Transforming Nonprofit Advocacy with Digital Stories
In this compelling episode of Leading Through Stories, we delve into the transformative power of digital storytelling within the nonprofit sector. Our guest, Heather Knox, a Common Language Digital Storytelling trained facilitator, takes us on an incredible journey from her early days co-founding Project Somos in Guatemala to her recent move to Mexico. Throughout the episode, Heather underscores how storytelling and photography have profoundly impacted her work with Indigenous Mayan children and women, emphasizing the importance of privacy, trust, and the nuanced art of narrative creation.
The episode opens with Heather sharing her passion for storytelling and its potential to revolutionize nonprofit advocacy. As she recounts her experiences, it becomes evident that stories are more than just a medium for communication—they are powerful tools that can mobilize support, engage donors, and foster a sense of community. Heather highlights the deep connections formed through sharing personal and impactful stories, stressing the critical role of maintaining privacy and trust. These elements are fundamental in ensuring that the narratives remain authentic and respectful, particularly when dealing with sensitive topics.
One of the standout moments in the episode is Heather’s discussion about her collaboration with Blanca. This story creation process exemplifies the importance of listening and identifying key narrative elements during lengthy conversations. Heather’s approach to storytelling is methodical and empathetic, allowing the storyteller to unfold their narrative organically. This method not only enriches the story but also ensures that the storyteller feels heard and valued. Heather shares more about her in guided autobiography, a transformative method that she learned about from Common Language colleague, Lisa Joworski. This technique involves a structured approach to personal storytelling, enabling individuals to explore and articulate their life experiences in a meaningful way.
Heather’s narrative takes a fascinating turn as she introduces Ricardo’s eco-brick project in Guatemala. This initiative is a testament to the power of community-driven projects and the impact of storytelling in fostering a sense of collective responsibility. Eco-bricks, made by filling plastic bottles with non-biodegradable waste, have been used extensively in the construction at Project Somos. Ricardo, who was one of the original children involved in making eco-bricks, now leads a boys’ program, emphasizing the project’s long-term impact on the community. Heather’s excitement about telling Ricardo’s story highlights the importance of capturing these origin stories for future generations.
The episode also delves into the intricacies of digital storytelling and its significance in nonprofit fundraising. Heather explains the process of creating a two to four-minute movie centered around a meaningful moment in someone’s life. This involves writing and voicing the story, selecting appropriate images, and adding music to enhance the narrative. Heather acknowledges the challenges of explaining digital storytelling but underscores its value in capturing and preserving foundational narratives. These stories are not just tools for fundraising—they are crucial in connecting with donors and demonstrating the tangible impact of their contributions.
Heather’s gratitude for the leadership and camaraderie within the Common Language Digital Storytelling community is palpable throughout the episode. She emphasizes the collective effort that drives these impactful narratives, reflecting on the supportive network of digital storytelling facilitators who share their skills and experiences. This sense of community is integral to the success of their storytelling endeavors, fostering an environment of continuous learning and collaboration.
About Our Guest
Heather Alicia Knox is a non-profit leader, digital storytelling facilitator and photographer, based in Mexico and Guatemala. She is the Co-Founder of the Project Somos Learning Village located in the Central Highlands of Guatemala. Heather has over thirty years experience working in the non-profit sector. Her work has included international, arts and educational organizations. She has worked with children, rescue dogs, designed farm to table educational programming, recruited and managed volunteers (up to 1200 at a time!) and provided courses and training. Her greatest loves are children and dogs. She values connecting with individuals and listening deeply to their stories and experiences and using storytelling as a mode to truly see others.
Connect with Heather: heatheraknox@gmail.com
About Co-Created
Co-Created is a podcast that takes you behind the scenes of digital storytelling. On each episode, host Kristy Wolfe dives into conversations with the storytellers and facilitators who bring digital stories to life.
If this particular conversation resonated with you, tell a friend or a colleague about Co-Created or share one of the digital stories we were talking about. You can find the stories here.
Co-Created is presented by Common Language DST, digital storytelling facilitation training for health and wellness changemakers and is supported by the team at Snack Labs.
