THE 14TH ANNUAL SHORTY AWARDS

The Shorty Awards honor the best of social media and digital. View this season's finalists!

One Step Away

Entered in Documentary

Objective

The producers and director of the short documentary, "One Step Away," aimed to highlight the transformative power of art and the profound impact of hope in the face of adversity. By chronicling Sabrina Spanta's journey and her collaboration with SCAD's President and Founder, Paula Wallace, the film seeks to shed light on the plight of women under the Taliban regime and the urgent need for their protection. It aims to motivate viewers to support efforts that safeguard women's rights and freedoms globally, while also showcasing the strength and resilience of individuals like Sabrina who overcome immense challenges. Additionally, the film emphasizes how art can be a powerful tool for change and a source of hope and empowerment. Through this film, the creators hope to inspire a future where women are safe from persecution and can thrive in a world that values their contributions and rights.

Strategy

Bringing "One Step Away" to life was a deeply personal and transformative journey. The project began with a clear vision: to tell Sabrina Spanta's incredible story and highlight the power of art and hope in overcoming adversity. SCAD’s plan of action involved several key steps, starting with extensive research and interviews to fully understand Sabrina's experiences and the broader context of women's rights under the Taliban regime. Execution involved meticulous planning and collaboration. The Visual Media team worked closely with SCAD's Founder and President Paula Wallace, who played a pivotal role in Sabrina's story, ensuring that every detail was accurately portrayed. Filming included in-depth interviews to capture the essence of Sabrina's journey, and employed a mix of narrative storytelling and documentary techniques to create a compelling and authentic narrative. Key features of the project included powerful visual storytelling, a strong emotional core, and a focus on the transformative impact of art. The team aimed to create a film that not only informs but also inspires action and empathy. Throughout the process, there were a few challenges. One of the most significant was ensuring the safety and privacy of those involved, particularly given the sensitive nature of the story. SCAD also encountered logistical hurdles, such as coordinating personal footage and maintaining accuracy in the story. However, these challenges were overcome through careful planning, a dedicated team, and a shared commitment to the project's mission. Ultimately, "One Step Away" is a testament to the resilience and strength of individuals like Sabrina and the power of storytelling to drive change and inspire hope.

Results

The film achieved its core objectives of raising awareness, inspiring action, and celebrating resilience. The powerful storytelling and emotional depth resonated with audiences, sparking conversations about women's rights. The film's reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with viewers expressing a deep connection to Sabrina's story and a renewed commitment to supporting women globally. Additionally, the involvement of President Wallace and the institution’s community underscored the importance of educational institutions in fostering change and supporting their students and alumni. Moreover, the challenges that were faced and overcame, such as ensuring the safety of participants and managing complex logistics, demonstrated the Visual Media Team's dedication and resourcefulness. These efforts not only brought Sabrina's story to life but also highlighted the broader issues of persecution and the need for global solidarity. Ultimately, "One Step Away" succeeded in its mission to inspire hope and action, making it a meaningful and impactful project for everyone involved.

Media

Video for One Step Away

Entrant Company / Organization Name

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)

Link

Entry Credits