Non-extractive storytelling workshop presented by award-winning, international film maker Jay Austin
2 minute read

BURLINGTON, Vt. (Apr. 18, 2024) – A refreshing way for storytellers to change the narrative is coming to Burlington on May 2. Those seeking to tell stronger, truer stories will have an opportunity to attend a candid, uplifting free workshop presented by award-winning filmmaker Jay Austin on May 2 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at Generator 40 Sears Lane, Burlington. The workshop is hosted by the Community Navigator Pilot Program (CNPP).

Non-extractive storytelling offers business writers, videographers, journalists, authors, filmmakers, documentarians, and others a way to center their subjects’ voices in an honest, unselfish format, without casting their own implicit biases on their writing. This process results in clearer authenticity, allowing the reader or viewer to understand the real story.

Based in Atlanta, Austin is a creative director, documentary producer, and strategic consultant who leans on non-extractive storytelling methodology to create works about interrupting cycles of violence and mass incarceration in the U.S., indigeneity, identity, migration, and accelerating environmental justice and sustainability around the globe. He has been invited to present and teach at various conferences worldwide.

The day with Jay includes:

  • 9 am – 12 pm: Non-Extractive Methodologies workshop
  • 1 pm – 4 pm: optional special session with Jay to dive deeper into his process, ask questions, and screen the documentary, Digging In, as an example of non-extractive storytelling

Both sessions are designed for anyone working on a creative project from agencies and business owners to sole-proprietors and freelance workers as well as: creative and marketing professionals, community organizers and researchers, direct service organizations working on behalf of clients, and students from all levels.

These workshops are free with light refreshments but participants are expected to bring what they need to fuel their day. 

To reserve seats by May 1 (walk-in seats will be limited), register through the VtSBDC.

To learn more about Jay Austin visit https://www.jaywaustin.com

This event is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration in partnership with the Community Navigator Pilot Program. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the authors and speakers and do not necessarily reflect the view of the SBA.

Media Contact:
Phyllis Ershowsky
Marketing & Communications Specialist
VtSBDC and Community Navigator Pilot Program
pershowsky@vtsbdc.org
(802) 777-4977