Digital Media Mentoring Program for Democracy
The Digital Media Mentoring Program aims to empower young adults (aged 18–25) with migrant background in Germany and Belgium by equipping them with digital media literacy, content creation skills, and a deep understanding of the role of media in promoting democracy. This program seeks to bridge the gap between media consumption and content creation, fostering a generation of responsible digital citizens.
Program Goals
- Build digital media literacy to combat misinformation and digital manipulation.
- Enhance critical thinking and foster ethical storytelling practices.
- Promote democratic engagement through creative content production.
- Strengthen social inclusion and intercultural understanding.
- Encourage active participation in democratic processes and awareness of European institutions.
Focus Areas
- Digital Media Literacy: Understanding traditional vs. digital media landscapes.
- Content Creation: Mastering tools like Canva and AI-powered platforms for impactful storytelling.
- Democracy and Civic Engagement: Highlighting democratic values through digital media projects.
- Ethical Practices: Teaching copyright, plagiarism, and privacy regulations.
- Critical Thinking: Developing skills to identify and counter misinformation.
Methodology
The program follows a structured, step-by-step approach:
- Awareness: Introduction to media literacy, social media platforms, and ethical media practices.
- Knowledge: Practical training in content creation, blogging, podcasting, and video editing.
- Experience: Hands-on workshops, institution visits, and collaborative projects.
- Implementation: Developing and launching a social media channel to showcase creative projects.
Project Activities
- Interactive Sessions: 16 sessions combining theoretical knowledge with practical exercises.
- Media Institution Visits: Engaging with professionals to gain real-world insights.
- Final Project: Teams create democracy-themed documentaries or vlogs, demonstrating their skills and promoting civic values.
- Mentorship: Guided support from mentors with expertise in digital storytelling and civic engagement.
Outcomes
- Participants will develop critical media and communication skills.
- Creation of original, impactful content focused on democratic participation and social justice.
- Establishment of a vibrant social media channel as a platform for youth voices.
- Strengthened connections across diverse communities, fostering a more inclusive Europe
Events & Workshops
30 APR 2025
Video Content Creation, led by Januam (Online)
Exploring modern video methods for content creation, (Capcut), and preparing for project implementation.
12 MAR 2025
Digital Literacy: Learn How to Survive in the Digital Information Sphere (Online)
Discover, define and engage critically with dis/misinformation from traditional and new media sources, including social media.
23 APR 2025
Basics of video production – with Scum Studios (Hybrid)
Learning about basics of video production (framing, composition, lighting, equipment, etc.), hands-on-learning
05 MAR 2025
Media and Digital Communicaiton, Literacy and Ethics (Online)
Outline critical methodology to diffuse online content and information to effectively consume and participate in digital discourse.
02 APR 2025
Content Creation Workshop – Canva/MS Designer (Online)
Learn about graphic design with Canva and compare different tools such as MS Designer, Adobe express and ChatGPT
26 FEB 2025
Program Introduction and Media Mentoring (Hybrid)
Introduce and explain the program, outline and expectations – introduce mentors to mentees.
19 MAR 2025
Content Creation Fundamentals & Design Thinking (Online)
From developing content calendars to aligning content based on audience, creator and platform needs.
19 FEB 2025
Mentor Workshop DIGITAL MedIa MentorIng for Youth (Online)
Join us for an introductory workshop designed for all mentors participating in the EU in a Nutshell project, part of the Media Mentoring Program.
