Introducing the Big Stories Program
Two years ago, I launched Big Stories Little Films with a simple mission: to help people preserve their life stories on film for future generations.
Since then, I've had the privilege of sitting across from people from all walks of life. Together, we've created legacy films for restauranteurs, business owners, farmers, teachers, parents and Rotarians. I've heard stories of migration, war, hardship, achievement, adventure and, above all, love.
Together, we've created films that allow children, grandchildren and generations yet to come not only to know where they came from, but to hear the voices, see the smiles and understand the people who came before them.
But as I created these films, something surprised me.
The finished film is only part of the story.
It's the act of remembering and connecting that is most powerful.
The memories unlocked when selecting photographs from albums long left unopened. The conversations with family that happen while preparing. The anticipation before the screening. And the joy of sitting together to watch a lifetime unfold on screen.
I realised the process itself can be just as valuable as the finished film.
These films don't just preserve memories. They strengthen wellbeing, connection and a sense of identity.
So it got me thinking about how can more people preserve their stories.
Not every family wants or can afford a professionally produced documentary. Yet every person's story is valuable, and every family deserves the chance to preserve it.
That question has stayed with me ever since and today, I'm excited to finally share what I've been working on.
Introducing the Big Stories Program
Next month, we'll be launching the pilot of the Big Stories Program, a new three-part storytelling experience designed to help older Australians record and preserve their own life stories.
The program has been created to make life storytelling simple, enjoyable and accessible. Participants don't need any filmmaking experience or technical skills whatsoever. Just a willingness to share a story.
Over three sessions, participants will:
Reflect on the stories that have shaped their lives.
Learn how to record those stories on a phone or tablet.
Celebrate them together with family and friends at a special screening event.
Each participant will also receive a complimentary Big Stories Journal to help capture memories and inspire future conversations with loved ones.
Why this matters
For generations, we've preserved family history through photographs, handwritten letters and family trees.
Those are incredibly valuable. But they don't capture a person's laugh. The sparkle in their eyes. The pause before they tell their favourite story. Or the emotion in their voice as they remember someone they loved.
Video allows future generations to experience a person, not just read about them.
I believe that's one of the greatest gifts we can leave behind.
The first pilot begins soon
I'm incredibly grateful to Twilight Aged Care in Hunters Hill for partnering with us to pilot the very first Big Stories Program.
Over the coming weeks, I'll be sharing updates from the program, what we're learning, and the incredible stories that emerge along the way (with participants' permission, of course).
My hope is that this program helps more Australians recognise that their stories matter, and gives them the confidence to preserve them for the people they love.
After all, every life has a story worth remembering.
Members of the media and the aged care sector are warmly invited to attend the screening of the Big Stories Program pilot on Friday 4 September in Sydney. To express your interest in attending, please get in touch.
