Hard to believe terrible weather was the trigger for filming Women of Yolanda!
Please tell us about Women of Yolanda:
On November 8, 2013 the strongest recorded cyclone to ever make landfall, Typhoon Yolanda, hit The Philippines and caused catastrophic damage to numerous parts of the country. In its path was a small island called Bantayan, the setting for this documentary, where a group of incredible women live and work. With no income coming from their husbands' fishing trade due to the destruction of the boats these women had to find a way to survive and support their families.Through a community project called ‘Bantayan Crafts’ they were able to make money by creating handmade accessories to sell. This documentary, 'Women of Yolanda', explores the amazing stories of these women and their journey of survival.
How did you get to be involved in this project?
I lived in The Philippines when I was about 11 years old and ever since I knew I wanted to make films I had a strong desire to go back there and do a project. When the typhoon hit in 2013 I felt helpless that I couldn’t help in any way as I was no longer living there so when it came to deciding on a project for my final year at University, I knew what topic to choose. During a research trip to The Philippines in 2015 I found the story I had been looking for , a community project called ‘Bantayan Crafts', where a group of women make hand-made accessories to sell to earn money to rebuild after the typhoon. This story of female and economic empowerment really captured my interest and I suddenly had an intense drive to share their incredible journey with as many people as I could.
What was it like heading out to the Philippines to shoot this?
Since I had already lived in the Philippines when I was younger and had done a research trip prior to shooting, I felt comfortable and confident when it came to actually filming it. I knew exactly what to expect in terms of temperature, people, working conditions and locations so therefore felt very prepared and in control throughout the whole production. Going all the way to The Philippines was challenging but very rewarding as it proved that I could be adaptable and work in different environments. Having my project set in The Philippines really enhanced and benefitted the overall film as I was able to capture vibrant, beautiful shots wherever I went, therefore presenting the audience with a visually stimulating experience.
What did the experience teach you?
This experience was very humbling as I spent time with the women and was invited into their homes to meet their families. It amazed me how the women have so little yet are so grateful and always smiling. This not only taught me a great deal of life lessons but also influenced my film making as although it may be a struggle sometimes I must never forget the joy and passion I have for the art. Being with the women also validated my reasons for making documentaries as it is so important to tell these stories and bring attention to the people that need it most.
What was your most memorable moment?
My most memorable moment was walking to and from the women’s houses as myself and my sound recordist, Charley, were guided round the community to conduct the interviews. After we left each house we gained a guide as everyone was so excited that we were there they wanted to be a part of the journey . We then came to the last house for the final interview and were welcomed with lots of food and drinks which was wonderful. I remember this moment the most as although these women have hardly anything and struggle to support their families, they continue to be kind and giving. It’s heart-warming to know that there are these kind of people in the world.
What are you hoping to move on to next?
I am currently undertaking an internship at Aardman Animations in Bristol and hope to continue with film studio work . However, when the time is right I hope to use my passion for travelling and film making to highlight the importance and impact of female and economic empowerment.
What do you think?
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