Traveling to India with Light The World

When people ask me about my dream job, my answer is: travel around the world and tell the stories of people I meet. Specifically, tell the stories of people you wouldn’t hear about otherwise, and give truly incredible lives and organizations a larger voice in the midst of all the messages thrown at us today.

I've always loved writing, but in the past six months I've been working towards making writing more of my career instead of just a hobby. A few weeks ago, I was invited to attend a workshop called Light The World. It will provide me invaluable hands-on experience in the type of writing and work I've dreamt about doing. I'm sure you have questions, so let's get started. 

What is Light The World?

Light The World is a hands-on 10-day workshop for creative professionals who want to learn more about using their skills in the non-profit world. The workshop is run by two humanitarian photographers, Austin Mann and Esther Havens, who each have years of experience working with organizations to help them tell their stories. This year the workshop takes place in Dehradun, India and we will be working with an organization called JOYN. 

Why go with Light The World?

For someone who is interested in the world of non-profit storytelling and marketing, I can't imagine a better way to learn than to be given an opportunity to do it yourself, while learning from some of the best in the business. This is the opportunity I have with LTW. We'll be working with JOYN to tell stories of life transformation happening through their work that will be used to gain financial support for their organization. I will have the opportunity to stretch my skills in a real-life, real-time, real-client environment while still under the guidance and leadership of experienced professionals. 

What exactly will you be doing in India during the workshop?

There is a team of 12 people going on the workshop, and my role will be the writer. I will work with photographers, videographers, and producers to put words to images and create a integrated campaign that JOYN can use in support of their work and organization. I will be learning the ins and outs of what it's like to travel, to work with a non-profit on the ground while in a different culture, and how to collaborate with photographers to make sure we are telling the stories with dignity and in the most effective way. 

How much does it cost and what is the money used for? 

The trip costs $6,500. This cost includes: 

- An international round-trip flight from Texas to India

- Two domestic flights within India 

- All accommodations and food while in India 

- Visa, passport and vaccinations 

If any of this resonates with you, I would love your support. Please know that your gift is so appreciated. Thanks for reading!