It’s just Not the Generation You Were Expecting
Since February 2024, a remarkable project has been underway at Brightwater
Redcliffe: a group of residents have come together to create their own film.
Capturing life in their home in a project that was about much more than just making a
video. Inspired by the UN’s Decade of Healthy Ageing initiative, which aims to
enhance quality of life for older people globally, Brightwater Redcliffe's residents
embraced their new roles as storytellers, scriptwriters, and filmmakers.
The Decade of Healthy Ageing project by the UN began as a platform to ensure that
older voices had a place and an impact in their communities. To do this, the initiative
even trained older adults to be filmmakers in their local communities, underscoring a
powerful message: “add life to years, wherever people live.” This mission resonated
at Brightwater Redcliffe, where residents were encouraged to tell their own stories
through film, guided by our videographer, Ed Hobbs, and his team.
From Script to Screen: A Purpose-Driven Journey
The residents worked closely with Brightwater Redcliffe staff and Ed’s video team,
taking charge of each stage in the filmmaking process. They planned, storyboarded,
scripted, filmed, and produced a video that reflected life at the aged care home
Brightwater Redcliffe through their own eyes. The goal? To showcase their
experiences and connections, inviting audiences into their world in a way only they
could.
For some residents, this project was a return to previous interests, while for most, it
was an entirely new adventure. Many rediscovered passions and developed fresh
skills. Working together toward a common goal, they collaborated, shared laughs,
and strengthened bonds, ultimately crafting a video that became a point of pride for
the whole community.
Community Connection and Inclusion
As much as this project was about making a film, it was also a pilot initiative for
Brightwater to explore new ways of including residents in marketing and
communications projects. By creating opportunities for clients and residents to
directly share their stories, Brightwater highlights its commitment to client-centred
storytelling and community building.
The Redcliffe Resident Video Project wasn’t just an exercise in skill-building; it was
about fostering a sense of purpose and connection. Residents contributed to something meaningful, strengthening community ties and building a legacy that
would inspire others.
Premiering a New Perspective
The final video was premiered at a launch party, a joyful event where residents
celebrated their hard work and creativity. Their film offers viewers an authentic
glimpse into the lives, friendships, and community at Brightwater Redcliffe, told by
the people who live it each day.
Through projects like these, we see that the filmmakers of tomorrow are already
here—each resident with a story, a vision, and a willingness to share their unique
view on life. This project not only underscored the power of storytelling in community
building but also demonstrated that age is no barrier to creativity and connection.
