Impact

Unleashing the Power of Documentary Storytelling for Social Transformation

At Docubox, we are deeply rooted in the belief that documentary storytelling serves as a potent catalyst for change. Unlike fleeting news cycles or the transient nature of social media, documentaries offer audiences an immersive journey. They delve deep into the lives of real people, forging a bridge of empathy and understanding. They weave narratives that shed light on abstract ideas, bringing them to life in ways that profoundly alter the viewer’s perspective.

This immersion often prompts action, as audiences become emotionally invested in the stories they witness. The transformative nature of documentaries stems from their unique ability to create culture. As filmmakers, our role extends beyond mere storytelling. We introduce new narratives, amplify unheard voices, and present information that reframes policy discussions. By doing so, we ignite cultural moments that galvanize collective energy, leading to meaningful change. It’s a snowball effect, with one story paving the way for countless others, each echoing the call to action, each resonating with the souls yearning for justice and understanding.

But the magic of storytelling isn’t solely contained within the frames of the documentary. The way a story is presented and promoted is equally crucial. In today’s world, the term ‘impact’ transcends traditional distribution channels like TV or cinemas. It’s about outreach and engagement, about ensuring that the film’s message reverberates far and wide, touching those it seeks to influence. Whether it’s a presentation before policymakers, collaborations with NGOs to rally their base, or integrating the film into educational curriculums, the goal is singular — to spark change.

This philosophy underpins Docubox’s mission. Our endeavors have culminated in the creation of 118 films that have reverberated in prestigious festivals globally, from the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam to Sundance and the Toronto International Film Festival.

Our films transcend boundaries, engendering dialogues across cultures and continents. Our impact is palpable. Take, for instance, the transformative campaigns led by Docubox.

‘Thank You For The Rain’; inspired tree plantations across schools and ran a global impact campaign that led to building of an earth dam that supports over 350 households, in Mutomo, Kitui, Kenya, while In Search by Beryl Magoko spearheaded a drive against female genital mutilation in Kisii, Kenya. Through films like ‘He Named Me Malala’ we’ve kindled discussions on education and gender equality among thousands of students.
Films like Ms. President series have empowered female filmmakers to spotlight women leaders, propelling them to the forefront of leadership narratives. With our The Freedom of Creative Expression Initiative (2018) focused on promoting unrestricted expression within Kenya’s creative sectors, especially in film, visual, and performing arts. This included pushing for new laws, examining current ones, using a Communication and Advocacy Strategy through support of the court case against the film Rafiki by Wanuri Kahiu. Our support for the film stemmed from our belief in artistic freedom.

Our goal is to ensure open debates in Kenya and Africa without being silenced by opposing views. In essence, Docubox is not just about creating films; it’s about crafting movements. Our dedication to harnessing the intrinsic properties of storytelling, combined with our strategic engagement campaigns, solidifies our position as pioneers in the world of documentary filmmaking. We stand as a testament to the boundless potential of films to inspire, advocate, and reshape societies. Join us in this journey to transformation. Discover the power of documentary. Embrace the change. Create Impact!