Videographer

Introduction and Background

The Platform was established by Mada in 2005, and is a space that provides flexible and tailored support to grassroot groups and initiatives. Over the past years, Mada has been deeply committed to promoting Food Sovereignty in Lebanon, and therefore many of the supported groups work on alternative food models.

Under the project "Producers, Consumers and Civil Society for Greater Food Sovereignty in Lebanon" project, which began with CAFOD funding in 2022 and is now in its fourth phase, Mada works with small-scale farmers to support them to transition to agroecology, agri-food grassroot groups to support them individually and collectively, and works on the linkages between the farmers and the groups.

This consultancy aims to document the journey and impact of these integrated efforts, particularly highlighting the evolution of the Mada Platform, and the transformative changes for both farmers and the groups involved.

Objective of the Consultancy

To develop a compelling video that chronicles the story of The Platform and more specifically the "Producers, Consumers and Civil Society for Greater Food Sovereignty in Lebanon" project across its various phases, with a strong focus on the role of The Platform, the history of interventions, and the impact on both farmers and collaborating groups. The video will serve as a key communication and advocacy tool to promote learnings, successes, challenges, and the broader concepts of agroecology and food sovereignty.

Scope of Work

The Videographer will be responsible for the following:

• Pre-production:
  • Familiarize themselves with Mada Association, The Platform, and the "Producers, Consumers and Civil Society for Greater Food Sovereignty in Lebanon" project, including its past phases and ongoing activities.
  • Work closely with Mada's team to develop a detailed video concept, script, and shot list that captures the essence of the project's journey, highlighting key milestones, challenges, and successes for both farmers and civil society groups.
  • Identify key interviewees, including Mada staff, partners, groups, and farmers.
  • Plan logistics for filming, including travel to various project locations (Akkar, Chouf, Beirut, Bekaa).
• Production (Filming):
  • Capture high-quality video footage and still photographs at various project sites, in Beirut (where the groups are located) and at the agroecological farmers (mostly Akkar).
  • Conduct interviews with selected individuals, ensuring compelling narratives are captured.
  • Capture b-roll footage illustrating the project's activities, such as: planting, harvesting, food preparation, food distributions, market interactions, and training sessions.
  • Ensure all necessary consent forms are obtained from interviewees and individuals featured in the video.
• Post-production (Editing):
  • Edit the raw footage into a compelling video, incorporating interviews, b-roll, graphics, and appropriate music/sound design.
  • Produce two versions of the video:
    • A long version (5-6 minutes) for events and interested actors.
    • Short videos (e.g., 30 seconds each) suitable for social media platforms.
  • Incorporate Mada's branding and ensure consistent messaging throughout the video.
  • Include subtitles (Arabic and English) for all spoken content.
  • Integrate relevant statistical data, research findings (e.g., on farm gate and market values of agroecological products), and key achievements into the video.

Deliverables

The videographer will deliver the following:

• A script, to be sent to Mada for review/validation.
• A final, edited long version of the project video in high definition, with Arabic and English subtitles.
• Three shorter versions of the video tailored for social media, with Arabic and English subtitles.
• All raw video footage and interview transcripts.
• A selection of high-resolution photographs taken during filming.

Target Audience for the Video

The video will target a diverse range of stakeholders with different purposes:

• Farmers and Producers: To promote agroecology, shorter distribution cycles, collaboration, and alternative consumer relationships.
• Academics, Technicians, Researchers: To promote agroecology as a science.
• NGOs and Groups: To promote agroecology as a social movement and encourage participation in the transition to agroecology across the production cycle.
• Consumers: To trigger change in consumption patterns and increase awareness.
• Authorities, Government, Donors: To influence their strategies and priorities, especially regarding Food Sovereignty versus Food Security.

Key Themes and Content to be Covered

The video should tell the story of the project, focusing on:

• The Platform's role: How it has supported grassroot groups/initiatives and its ongoing mission to foster collaboration and community development.
• The "Producers, Consumers and Civil Society for Greater Food Sovereignty in Lebanon" project's evolution: From its inception in 2022 to the current Phase IV, highlighting the progression and growth.
• The context in Lebanon: Briefly touching upon the multiple crises (economic, political, social, environmental) and their impact on food security and livelihoods.
• Agroecology and Food Sovereignty as a solution: Explaining Mada's commitment to agroecology and its benefits for farmers, consumers, and the environment.
• Impact on farmers:
  • The shift to agroecological practices, increased production, and reduced costs.
  • Improved access to fair markets and increased income.
  • Development of collective action (e.g., collective transportation, common pricing systems, etc.)
  • Demonstration plots and their role in capacity building and outreach.
• Impact on grassroot groups:
  • Their response to crises and their role in providing food assistance and promoting alternative food models.
  • Capacity strengthening and increased self-reliance through Mada's support (organizational development, technical support, networking, strategic planning, financial and administrative structuring).
  • Development of innovative models and income-generating activities.
• Linkages and collaborations: Highlighting the strengthened interactions among actors and Mada's role in facilitating these relationships.
• Testimonials and personal stories: Featuring powerful narratives from participants and partners that illustrate the human impact of the project.
• Future outlook: Briefly touching upon Mada's ongoing commitment to Food Sovereignty, research, and influencing wider narratives in Lebanon.

Qualifications of the Videographer

• Proven experience in documentary filmmaking, particularly in the development sector.
• Strong portfolio showcasing high-quality video production, including storytelling, interviews, and b-roll.
• Experience working in Lebanon and familiarity with the local context, including cultural sensitivities.
• Proficiency in video editing software and equipment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Fluency in Arabic and English