A Different View of Community Storytelling

Viewers see the stories that are told in front of a camera, but for a special group of women their story is behind the camera.

Six workforce development interns from the Women’s Community Correctional Center (WCCC) took part in supporting ʻŌlelo Community Media’s recent broadcast of the Honolulu City Lights, doing everything from grip to utility work. Their new skills came as part of ʻŌlelo’s intensive media production training program held at WCCC, and covering the event was not only a milestone, but a chance to be part of something public, positive, and widely shared.

Their work reminds us that storytelling can be a powerful tool for confidence, learning, and renewal. And it shows how partnership, training, and opportunity can illuminate the community in ways that go far beyond the holiday lights.

A Partnership Rebuilt After the Pandemic

ʻŌlelo’s relationship with WCCC began years before COVID-19, but like many community programs, it went on hiatus during and after the pandemic. The partnership was revived in the fall of 2024 with a new commitment to expanding workforce development opportunities for women at the facility.

That first returning cohort of six women trained in audiovisual storytelling, basic camera and audio production, and editing. The women immediately put their new skills to work, covering an event in their own facility and joining the ʻŌlelo crew for the 2024 Kāne‘ohe Christmas Parade. They continued working on productions throughout the year, gaining hands-on experience alongside ʻŌlelo’s staff.

Training the Second Cohort

The current group, also six women, marks the second cohort since the relaunch. Over five days, the women learned audiovisual storytelling, single-camera production, and multicamera production. These skills prepare them for the fast-paced environment of live event coverage.

For many, the 2025 Honolulu City Lights became their first major assignment, giving them an opportunity to apply their training while contributing to a beloved community tradition.

Building Skills, Confidence, and New Pathways

The goal of the WCCC – ʻŌlelo partnership is simple but meaningful: create opportunities that benefit both organizations while supporting the women’s growth and futures. Through training and real production experience, participants gain tangible, industry-relevant skills they can use during their time at WCCC and after release.

These skills open pathways to possible careers in media and technical production as they reintegrate into the community.