A Visionary Conversation: International NGOs on Cellphilming in Interventions and Advocacy

This chapter examines the application of cellphilming as a Participatory Visual Methodology by local and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to address inequalities and social issues. Additionally, it raises questions regarding the successes and unique challenges associated with cellphilming, explores the prospects of this approach in development or humanitarian contexts, and examines how its shift from research to intervention and advocacy can deepen our understanding of its potential. The foundation of this chapter is a conversation that took place at the virtual Re-Visioning Cellphilming symposium, hosted by the Participatory Cultures Lab at McGill University in June 2022. As the conversation progressed, the panelists from Code Canada, Oxfam Canada, and Plan Canada delved into several crucial themes: (1) The disruptive potential of cellphilming in challenging and subverting conventional frameworks; (2) Ethical dilemmas, power dynamics, and navigating humanitarian settings with a focus on minimizing harm; and (3) Harnessing cellphilming as a response to combat tokenism and manipulation in visual work. By engaging with these critical issues, this chapter illuminates the transformative nature of cellphilming and its capacity to reshape narratives. The insights and discussions presented aim to enhance our understanding of cellphilming as a participatory research tool, while also empowering marginalized voices and addressing social issues.