This Fellowship Programme Empowers Content Creators To Raise Awareness About Online Safety
The three-month fellowship includes grant support totalling RM80,000.
By Gowri Chitra — 12 Aug 2024, 01:08 PM
Introducing Creators IRL (In Real Life) — a fellowship programme for content creators aimed at addressing online safety and scams
Last week, on 8 August, marked the launch of this pioneering programme, a joint collaboration between social change impact agency Ratio:Cause, the Ministry of Communications, Meta Platforms, Inc. and CelcomDigi.
As the flagship initiative of the expansive Online Safety and Anti-Scam Programme, Creators IRL is designed to build a dynamic community of content creators dedicated to tackling online harms.
The launch event brought together more than 30 of Malaysia's influential content creators, alongside key industry stakeholders, marking the beginning of a concerted effort to equip content creators with the knowledge, tools, and experience to combat online threats and promote digital safety.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching officiating the launch of the Creators IRL fellowship programme.
Image via Ratio:Cause (Provided to SAYS)The launch event offered a sneak peek into Creators IRL, giving creators a taste of what they can expect if they join the fellowship programme
Mediha Mahmood (CEO, Content Forum), Jennifer Chien (Regional Lead, Policy Programs, Meta APAC), Philip Ling (Head of Sustainability, CelcomDigi), and Onysha Boak (Programme Officer, Ratio:Cause) during a panel discussion on online safety.
Image via Ratio:Cause (Provided to SAYS)It featured a dynamic panel discussion with esteemed experts from Meta, CelcomDigi, and the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum). The panel delved into critical issues surrounding online scams and child online safety, providing valuable insights and strategies to protect online users.
Following the panel, attendees participated in a hands-on content creation workshop led by REV Media Group, which offered practical guidance on creating impactful content addressing serious online safety issues while effectively engaging audiences.
Nandini Balakrishnan, SAYS Video Lead with REV Media Group, leading a sharing session on impactful content creation.
Image via Ratio:Cause (Provided to SAYS)This served as a preview of what creators can expect from joining Creators IRL, a transformative three-month fellowship for 10 selected content creators.
Participants will have the opportunity to take a deep dive into cutting-edge content creation techniques that emphasise behavioural strategies and online safety from top industry experts.
They will gain real-world insights through visits to key organisations and institutions involved in the digital sphere. They will also be able to network with government officials, corporate leaders, and fellow content creators to build invaluable relationships and partnerships.
Content creator Nabil Ashman sharing a key opinion on online safety.
Image via Ratio:Cause (Provided to SAYS)Additionally, the programme includes grant support totalling RM80,000, providing the selected 10 creators with the financial resources to produce and create impactful content that drives change on online safety issues.
This comprehensive fellowship will empower content creators to harness their creativity and craft content that is not only engaging, but also profoundly impactful in promoting online safety.
"It's essential for content creators not only to be aware of an issue but also to feel empowered to take meaningful action," said New Su Shern, Executive Director of Ratio:Cause
"Authenticity is key, especially with the brands they choose to promote. When content creators genuinely believe in a brand, their content is authentic and resonates with their audience. Our goal is to engage content creators in a way that goes beyond merely sharing information; we aim to foster behavioural change and empowerment," she added.
Representatives from Meta, CelcomDigi, and the Content Forum who attended the launch event also shared their thoughts.
Mediha Mahmood (CEO, Content Forum), Onysha Boak (Programme Officer, Ratio:Cause), YB Teo Nie Ching (Deputy Minister of Communications), Philip Ling (Head of Sustainability, CelcomDigi), Daniel Lim (Head of Public Policy, Meta), and New Su Shern (Executive Director, Ratio:Cause), at the Creators IRL launch event.
Image via Ratio:Cause (Provided to SAYS)"Meta is committed to creating a safe and positive online environment. The Creators IRL programme represents a significant step forward in empowering content creators to not only understand the issues of online safety but to take active, meaningful steps to address them. We are excited to see the transformative impact this programme will have on our digital community," said Daniel Lim, Head of Public Policy at Meta Malaysia.
"As a company that serves over 20 million customers, we have a responsibility to protect the safety and security of our customers while fostering a more secure digital environment for all Malaysians.
"We believe that large-scale action through partnerships like this is key to tackling this pressing social epidemic and continue to advocate a whole-of-society approach to combat various online threats and scams more effectively," shared Philip Ling, Head of Sustainability at CelcomDigi.
"The Content Forum firmly believes that collaboration and a multi-stakeholder approach are paramount to ensuring a safe and thriving content environment. We are strong advocates for open dialogues on critical issues as they not only foster understanding and innovation but also serve as powerful catalysts for meaningful change," opined Mediha Mahmood, CEO of the Content Forum.
Content creators who are passionate about making a difference in the digital world are encouraged to seize this chance to become a part of something transformative through the Creators IRL programme
Content creators and programme partners at the Creators IRL launch event.
Image via Ratio:Cause (Provided to SAYS)Apply now and be a driving force for positive change in the digital community!
