Inspiring Stories is a new, innovative New Zealand charity kick-starting a nationwide project that support's young Kiwis to harnesses the power of storytelling through filmmaking and creative digital media for a better world.  The Dunedin-based charity connects young filmmakers with young people making a difference in their communities and will facilitate groups to produce a series of inspirational short films across the country.

The Inspiring Stories core team is working in collaboration with Regeneration Trust, a national network of young New Zealanders working to create positive change in their schools, workplaces, and communities.

On 1 March 2011, the teams embarked on a 15-week nationwide road trip, hosting workshops for young New Zealanders in every region. Through two-day intensive workshops, young filmmakers and changemakers will team up with industry professionals who will mentor and guide each individual short film production.

The Road Trip has already visited the Murihiku Young Parents Learning Centre, which Alison Broad (IC Trustee) and others worked hard to see opened earlier this year.  Watch the video at:  http://www.regeneration.org.nz/in_your_region/southland

Supported by the Vodafone NZ Foundation’s 2011 World of Difference Program, the Inspiring Stories project is headed by award-winning filmmaker and Trust CEO, Guy Ryan. Ryan is passionate about the project and its people; “Whether it’s kick-starting the community garden, helping the elderly, or cleaning up the local beach – there’s loads of young Kiwi’s out there making a difference, and loads of great stories to be told!”

Read more at the Inspiring Stories Trust website http://www.inspiringstories.org.nz/tag/regeneration/ and Project Regeneration website http://www.regeneration.org.nz/regeneration-roadtrip