Videos can be used as a way for opposing groups to better understand and listen to each other. It's an amazing tool for "putting yourself in someone else's shoes" and also as a means of expression and dialogue within a community. Myths about the "other" can be deconstructed and new perspectives can be reached in the process of planning, making and showing a film on your community.
In December 2007, Kenya - long considered one of the most stable countries in East Africa - descended into political violence following disputed presidential elections. The city of Eldoret was one of the locations where the violence escalated. Mercy Corps decided to use sport in Eldoret as a means to change perceptions between tribes, build peace, promote reconciliation and give young people a hope for the future. The program was called LEAP Sport and is being run by a local organisation called A-STEP.
At the start of the post election violence, Peter lost his uncle during an attack on their compound. He became depressed started using drugs. He talks about how he was able to begin to address his anger and resentment for other ethnic groups on the football pitch, through the LEAP SPORT program.
During the post-election violence in Kenya in 2007-8, David was shot by an arrow into his chest. He tells his story about how he recovered, but then developed deep resentment for another tribe. Through the LEAP SPORT programme, he was able to learn to forgive, but also to become a mediator to help resolve conflicts around him. David is now a group leader in A-STEP, he has a new life and an important role in his community.
In 2006 InsightShare trained researchers from the DRC network who are committed to implementing Participatory Video in their work in Nigeria, Angola, South Africa, Brazil, Jamaica and Mexico. This is one of the films that was made as part of the training.