Farmers Invited to Share Stories in New Research Initiative

A new research initiative aims to engage farmers in addressing the challenges they encounter in their profession. Led by researcher Bethan John, the project focuses on issues such as food security, economic uncertainty, community resilience, and the ecological and climate emergency. To facilitate this dialogue, a series of free workshops on storytelling and filmmaking will be held to capture the real-life experiences of farmers.

John, who grew up in a rural farming community near Carmarthen and currently resides in North Pembrokeshire, emphasizes the wealth of knowledge that exists within rural communities. “There is so much expertise within the rural communities where I live,” she stated. “One of the aims of this project is to capture and value this knowledge while exploring a diversity of views and experiences.”

Workshops Designed for Engagement

The workshops will take place at Bancyfelin Village Hall on October 1, 2023, from 17:30 to 20:30, and at Crymych Market Hall on October 2, 2023, also from 17:30 to 20:30. These sessions will be conducted bilingually and are intended for small groups, ensuring personalized attention and interaction.

Participants will engage in various activities designed to foster idea generation and discussions. Importantly, no prior experience in filmmaking or storytelling is required, as comprehensive training will be provided throughout the workshops. John believes in the transformative power of storytelling, noting, “There’s a wealth of academic research that demonstrates the importance of storytelling and creative expression as a way of reflecting on and engaging with complex issues that can help solve real-world problems.”

Opportunities for Community Involvement

Farmers and individuals from farming backgrounds are encouraged to participate and share their insights. John is keen to hear from those interested in being part of this valuable project. She highlighted that additional workshops may be organized if the initial dates are not suitable for all interested parties.

This initiative is a collaborative effort involving several organizations, with funding aimed at supporting the voices of farmers and enhancing community engagement. Interested individuals can reach out to Bethan John for more information on how to get involved.

By sharing their stories, farmers will not only contribute to vital research but also help raise awareness of the issues that affect their communities.