Strengthening Digital Storytelling Skills for Coastal Communities in Koh Kong and Preah Sihanouk

On 2 June 2026, Open Development Cambodia (ODC), in collaboration with Mlup Promviheathor Center Organization (MPC) and Cambodia’s Natural Resource Loves Organization (CNRO), organized a training on “Basic Photography and Videography Using Smartphones” for 42 participants, including 13 women, from Community Fisheries, Community Protected Areas, and partner organizations in Koh Kong and Preah Sihanouk provinces. The training was conducted as part of the “Strengthening Civil Society Actions for Economic Governance (SCAEG) 2023–2026” project, funded by the European Union. The training aimed to strengthen participants’ skills in producing digital content using smartphones and improve their ability to share community stories, activities, and local development issues through social media platforms.

The training opened with a welcome speech from the ODC team, followed by an introduction to the workshop objectives and the importance of digital storytelling for community engagement and advocacy. To encourage participation, the ODC team facilitated a “True or False” game featuring statements about photography and videography techniques. The activity helped participants share their existing knowledge, clarify misconceptions, and engage in an interactive learning environment.

Participants were then introduced to the basics of mobile videography, including shot composition, framing, camera angles, lighting, movement, audio quality, and storytelling techniques. Before the lunch break, participants were asked to apply what they had learned by capturing short videos on any topic of their choice. This open exercise allowed them to practice storytelling through video while exploring their surroundings and community life from different perspectives.

In the afternoon session, participants were introduced to CapCut, a mobile video editing application. The trainer demonstrated how to import footage, trim clips, arrange sequences, and add text, music, and transitions. Participants then edited the videos they had recorded in the morning, turning raw footage into short, structured video stories. This exercise allowed them to experience the full process of digital content creation—from filming to editing—using only their smartphones.

To further encourage application of skills, ODC introduced an upcoming Community Video Competition. The competition will provide participants with an opportunity to showcase their creativity by producing short videos on community livelihoods, environmental conservation, and local development issues. Outstanding submissions will be recognized and may be featured on ODC’s communication platforms, helping amplify community voices and perspectives.

Following the workshop, participants continued to actively engage through a Telegram group created by ODC. The platform allows participants to share their edited videos, exchange feedback, and receive guidance from the training team. This ongoing interaction demonstrates strong participant motivation and highlights the practical value of the training. The Telegram group also serves as a channel for sharing updates and information related to the upcoming Community Video Competition.

Through this training and continued engagement activities, ODC remains committed to supporting coastal communities in strengthening their digital communication skills. These efforts contribute to more inclusive participation, stronger community voices, and improved use of digital tools for sharing local experiences across Cambodia’s coastal regions.