Advanced Certificate in Storytelling for International Development
Published on June 25, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm excited to be talking with Dr. Jane Thompson, the lead instructor for the Advanced Certificate in Storytelling for International Development. Dr. Thompson, could you please share a bit about your personal experiences and insights related to this course topic? GUEST: Absolutely! I've spent over 20 years working in international development, and I've seen firsthand how powerful storytelling can be in creating change and fostering community engagement. This course is designed to empower development professionals, NGO workers, and social entrepreneurs to harness that power. HOST: That's fantastic. Could you tell us about any current industry trends that are relevant to this course? GUEST: Certainly. There's a growing recognition of the importance of narrative building and effective communication in driving social impact. Stakeholders, from donors to local communities, are increasingly interested in stories that demonstrate tangible results and authentic engagement. HOST: I see. What are some of the challenges faced in the field or while learning/teaching this subject? GUEST: One challenge is helping students to move beyond just data and statistics, and instead embrace the emotional power of storytelling. Another is navigating the ethical considerations that come with sharing vulnerable stories. HOST: That's really insightful. Finally, could you share your thoughts on the future of storytelling in international development? GUEST: I believe we'll continue to see a shift towards more participatory and inclusive storytelling practices. As technology evolves, there will be even more opportunities for diverse voices to be heard, which can only lead to more impactful and sustainable development initiatives. HOST: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. The Advanced Certificate in Storytelling for International Development is a truly innovative and important course, and we're excited to see the positive impact it will have on the field. GUEST: Thank you for having me. I'm looking forward to seeing the transformative stories that will come out of this program.
