National University of Lesotho Workshop "I am Africa. This is my story..."

SA Media Alliance Crosbey Mwanza drove me from Johannisburgh to Maseru Lesotho to meet with the communication students in National University of Lesotho. There were five workshop with numerious video from the students.

Crosbey team helped in the videos and the students did their own videos.

Each day was highly sightful the same way as in Lusaka High School however many of the students were already working, married and with children. The theme of raizing yourself from hard times and people that support you along the way were always there. Our experience was always very encouraging to watch the students mutual respect and support in the classes.

On the technical side it was best that we record in the shade so students eyes would open in front of the camera and away from background noise, like traffic. The excitement from students finishing one take would often spill into the soundtrack of another. Keeping people separate is also good strategy.

What was wonderful to watch is the teamwork of encouraging the bashful to try. We explain that nobody was forced to be recorded. For the very shy we recorded a number of quick clips just so they could see themselves on the camera and then deleted the clips on the spot. honoring each students feelings set up a field of trust that let the others speak freely.

Our fondest thanks to Crosbey staff e Atang Likotsi and Puleng Ralitsoele. Trainees are Khantse Monare and Lethole Kepanyane.

Also our thanks to Dr. H M Lephoto Director Institute of Extra Mural Studies National University of Lesotho for the hospitality and great conversations about Africa's youth, academics and their future.