At Breakthrough, we are committed to amplifying voices from marginalized communities, recognizing how structural inequalities, harmful social norms and a lack of authentic and positive media representation go hand in hand. In this political moment, we could not think of a community more worthy of uplifting than girls and gender non-conforming youth of color.

A documentary and photography series will be at the project’s core. We will also support Our Stories participants to build innovative multimedia skills, and partner with local organizations to hold workshops, arts showcases, and other community events.

Our partners represent diverse communities of color, and ground the Our Stories project in the lived experiences, community organizing work, and cultural heritage of these communities. In 2020 - 2022, Breakthrough will host a series of Community Conversations, which will be co-designed and co-facilitated by our partners.

We will also support Our Stories participants to learn more about mediamaking, and access mentorship opportunities so they can continue innovating and storytelling, long after the project ends.

Through our community partnerships, we aim to increase the visibility of grassroots organizations committed to social justice and the arts, helping to ensure their longevity.

We hope this work will not only lead to increased public dialogue about the issues affecting girls’ lives, but also inspire more radically inclusive social policies, and bring additional resources to marginalized communities.

While currently focused on the United States, we are open to expanding Our Stories to other regions, beginning in India, where Breakthrough also works.