The gender transformative approach of storytelling is an innovative and revolutionary concept that is reshaping the the narrative world. Storytelling has always been a powerful tool for people to express their opinions and views to shape society, communicate values and influence behaviours. However, traditional beliefs often encourage harmful gender stereotypes and limit the potential of man and a woman. The world is advancing and it is time to change this belief and it begins with the adoption of gender transformative approach to storytelling.
The gender transformative approach to storytelling involves challenging and dismantling traditional gender roles, stereotypes and power imbalance through narrative and representation. This approach aims to confront and redefine gender norms, empowering individuals regardless of gender identity and promoting equality and inclusivity. Imagine a world where women are not portrayed as damsel in distress but as strong, smart and resilient leaders, scientist and warriors, imagine a place where men are freed from the shackles of toxic masculinity where crying depicts them as weak and embrace vulnerability, empathy and emotional intelligence. This approach creates stories that inspires, motivates and drives cultural shift towards a more just and equitable society. It enables us to address pressing issues like gender- based violence, discrimination and inequality. Stories become tools understanding, empathy and highlighting the various challenges that people face as a result of gender identity.
The media is a major tool that plays a great role in aiding the gender transformative approach to storytelling. The media has taken the responsibility of breaking the barrier of gender norms in various ways such as: showcasing a wide range of gender role and stories, providing a platform for marginalizing voices to share their experiences, promoting positive role models that defy traditional gender norms, offfering education and raise awareness about gender issues through news reports, commentaries, talk shows and educational programs, creating more accurate and inclusive information, collaborating with organizations and activists. In a report provided by the International Labour Organization about 47 percent of the women contribute immensely to the labour force and for men about 72 percent. We see women like Maryam Lawan the founder of Blue Sapphire Hub now taking the lead in the technology world a major fuel that powers every sector of the economy and men like Anthony Mmesoma Madu a ballet dancer l, despite numerous challenges, limited resources and societal stereotypes still allowed there passion to shine through. There is need for the media to bring these persons and more like them to limelight, tell their stories and break the bondage of gender stereotypes.
In Nigeria, there are various examples of news reporting that have adopted the gender transformative approach by challenging gender roles, encouraging equality and sharing women’s experiences some of which are: BBC Pidgin a news service that reports news and stories in the Nigerian pidgin and English language. They have made great effort to include gender- sensitive reporting, ensuring that women’s perspectives and experiences are represented in their reportage. They also have featured stories on women’s achievements, challenges and their contributions to the society. There is the Channels Television “Rubbin’ minds” a talk show on Channels TV that discusses current affairs and social issues. They also address issues like gender-based violence,women right and gender equality through interviews. Also Premium Times'” Investigative journalism”. Premium Times’ an online news platform uses their site has published various Investigative reports that addresses gender- based issues and discrimination against men and women. The Guardian Nigeria a prominent newspaper organization has published articles and opinion pieces that challenge gender stereotypes and advocate for gender equality. Sahara reporters are not also left out. It’s an online news platform that has made several reports on gender-related issues and provide a space for victimsto share their stories. Apart from reporting about the gender transformative approach there is need for the media to allow equal participation of both genders in the news room carrying oumedia related activities that way women will be able to tell better the story of women and vice versa.
In conclusion, by adopting a gender transformative approach in storytelling, narratives have the potential to change, challenge stereotypes and transform societal norms. It is necessary to always remember that people are seeking authentic and relatable stories that challenge gender roles and offer new and insightful perspectives.
Embracing this new approach will promote a more inclusive and equal society for everyone regardless of gender identity, cater for audiences demand and be a catalyst for change and progress.
– Olorunleke Juliana Oluwatosin
300 Level Mass Communication Department,
Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba,
Kogi State.
