We really appreciate the work that you do on behalf of refugees, and we are grateful for your partnership.

Hi, I am a student at Otis College of Art and Design and I took a course called Movies that Matter which is an integrated learning class that collaborates with FilmAid International. I took the course because I enjoy watching movies and thought it would be an interesting class. I have never heard of FilmAid International before this class and wasn't very aware of the conditions around the world. What this organization does is not only show movies for their entertainment, but also show films that are educational and hold classes where they can teach refugees to make movies and express themselves. Through film, they have reached out not only to refugees but also to people around the world. I am glad that I have been aware of FilmAid and plan to keep up with this organization and inform others as well.

Like all the previous students who posted, I too am taking the IL class "Movies that Matter" at Otis College of Art and Design. Through this class, my eyes have been opened to the amazing work that you do all over the world. It has reminded me that no matter where we're from, what language we speak, or what we look like, art is art. It is something that anyone can digest and interpret in their own ways. Watching you bring so much emotion to people just by showing a movie makes me think about my art and how I can use it to bring about change amongst the people around me. Sometime we get so caught up in creating work for our own good, we forget that the people that view our work also have a reaction to it. Thank you for reminding me how influential we can be with our work and thank you for inspiring me to continue producing art that matters.

i am also a student at Otis College of Art and Design who is also enrolled in Movies that Matter class. Learning about FilmAid was an eye opening experience for me. Now I am aware of what's happening in the world at this time and I felt more responsible as a designer to give more influence, and effect on other people who are not aware about other parts of the world. By watching video clips from FilmAid and refugees, it also made me glad about the things I've had and things I have is more than enough. FilmAid and Movies that Matter class at my school taught me that an Art is a such a strong tool to connect people, and also transform one's life.

Se Yeon Kim

i am taking course, Movies that Matter at Otis College of Art and Design. Watching several films in the class, I surprised that how film effects to the people and have a powerful impact. Also through this class we integrate with Film Aid International, I learn our design ability can be also powerful tool to help the people such as refugees. I learn that as a designer we also have a responsibility about the problems. Film Aid International, organization gives me a courage and challenge to help other and to have a right mind set.

In collaboration with Movies That Matter, FilmAid International has taught me the humanitarian approach to filmmaking. Regardless of socio-economic background, the importance of film inspires those in need. By exposing students to classic as well as contemporary films, FilmAid enriches our sense of human dignity and inspires us through the medium of film. The art of cinema shines a spotlight and brings new perspectives to its viewers. Viewing some of the refugees film projects, I was inspired by the impact film-making had on their lives. Particularly, the influence of Facebook and animation on the refugees was noteworthy. As a result of FilmAid's contribution to the advancement of the craft, the amount of crime in the communities was deterred and an audience was captivated.

I'm a student at Otis College of Art and Design enrolled in "Movies that Matter." The course helped me understand the importance of art and media. FilmAid has also shown me how a simple story/film that people see everyday can help others move forward and inspire them. No matter how art is portrayed, it will always inspire and impact someone somewhere around the world. It's also encouraging to see the refugees enjoy making their own art, and helping their community with films for entertainment and awareness. I've also learned that art will always make a change/difference, regardless of the form it takes.

thanks for sharing this!

Storytelling through film can inspire and educate, as much as entertain. The art of film presents issues and perspectives that can change how we think -- how we think of domestic and global issues, and how we, as film-viewers and artists, fit into the picture. We're learning through FilmAid International, in our Movies that Matter class, that films have an amazing potential to expand ours and others' imagination, our understanding of the world and of each other.
We're very fortunate to have access to a wide variety of films and, especially here on YouTube™, an endless array of video material. Why not have a few of these film choices be one that can open your eyes to new perspectives? I think it's a good chance to enrich our own lives by being aware of issues others face daily, because change starts with awareness.
-C.L.

I am a student taking the Movies that Matters IL. I think that this organization is very important because it teaches the children of Africa, how to use the medium of film to spread a message. It lets other people around the world, view first hand what the people in the camps must go through, and what the conditions are like. On the lighter side of things, it also gives the children the creativity to make movies about what they want to, and a chance to share it with the rest of the world. Which also takes their minds off of the troubles that they must face daily.