Mission Statement
SalaamGarage is a citizen journalist organization that partners with International NGOs and local non-profits. Participants (amateur and professional photographers, writers, videographers, etc.) connect with international NGOs, create and share independent media projects that raise awareness and cause positive change in their online and offline social communities.
We are the media now. Join us.
Description
SalaamGarage provides a unique framework for cross cultural exchange through travel that builds awareness of social and human rights issues as they are addressed by our partner NGOs. This program links Non-Governmental Organizations with international travelers who seek a deeper understanding of the places they travel. Travelers experience local empowerment efforts first-hand and with the support of SalaamGarage share their stories globally through various media forms.
Founder and internationally renowned documentary photographer Amanda Koster, and a growing team, works collaboratively to create intimate, authentic project opportunities that explain the NGOs' missions. She asks each NGO to develop ideas to be used as a launch pad of inspiration for our travelers to tell stories of the meaningful work that changes lives. Through photography, video, writing or any combination, participants creatively interpret and commit to sharing these unique individual stories through any variety of disseminating mediums; from traditional gallery exhibitions and films, to social media outlets such as Blogs, Flickr, Myspace, YouTube, and FaceBook (and what is to come!).
Travelers benefit from the established relationships of the NGOs, as the NGOs are sensitive to the intricacies of the societies in which they work. Their experience provides valuable historic background and a comprehensive societal context from which to draw creative inspiration from a depth of understanding. SalaamGarage producers work with the NGOs in advance of trip projects to smooth all logistics making room for creative vision.
SalaamGarage, in agreement with our hosts, limits the number of trip participants so as to lessen our impact on the local communities. Selected travelers will share our desire to travel with limited local impact and take to heart the profound responsibility to accurately share their privileged discoveries to the global community.
Trip participants are responsible for funding their own participation. 10% of profits go to participating NGO.
And finally we suggest that each participant form and commit to a call to action for their audience and community. This way your experience can expand its impact.
We are the media now. Join us.
