UVI recently welcomed its newest volunteer, Zachary Shields, on location in Padang Sumatra. Shortly after his arrival Zach departed with a team for Gunung Sitoli, Nias to commence with filming and interviewing for an on-line documentary of relief efforts in and around UVI and ELM’s area of work. For the next month Zach will be shooting footage and gathering information while traveling throughout Aceh, Nias and other surrounding islands.

Zach is currently pursuing an independent study through the School of New Media at IUPUI in relation to the on-line documentary. In describing the project Zach explains, “The idea is to provide a multimedia window where viewers can utilize an interactive map with video interviews that will be displayed in a storybook format. Providing these stories with an interactive platform is a unique way of presenting the material because of its convenience for the user. Opposing the traditional method of producing a documentary in a linear fashion or on DVD, the documentary will provide easy access, a variety of focused content and easy to use navigation so the user is not forced to view information that will intrude upon their time schedules or interests.”

The on-line documentary will provide viewers with a first hand account of the ongoing struggle of forgotten survivors and methods volunteer organizations use in their efforts to provide life saving support to the victims. The documentary will also include pictures, written stories and audio clips will be used alongside video to enhance the experience and understanding of a disaster that prompted a global response.