It's not easy to find compassion for self and others especially if you have faced challenges in your past. Part of the solution comes from guides who can help you to navigate your experiences. The programs that I designed under the umbrella of "Design to be Kind" enabled our clients to have self-compassion and empathy in various situations. Using 360 cameras and VR devices, I encouraged children/young adults to use their imagination to create films that could highlight empowering stories and circumstances.
Game Mechanic: Role Playing
How this worked: Children were asked to bring to life several scenarios that I created for them. What if Tizzy found money in the library? How would Tizzy and Curtis react? What would be the best course of action to bring justice to the situation? What would Curtis do if Tizzy began bullying him by ordering him to steal the money instead? What other scenarios could take place?
Children developed their own script and props while working with a 360 camera. As the pandemic worsened, the course was held over VR. Role-playing was the key to this project's success.
Recipient of Creative Spark Grants 2018 and 2021 for emerging media
Testimonials:
"Sanjit very much enjoyed the play themes. He learned how to use empathy more powerfully and is more aware of how he treats his baby brother" - (Sanjit's mother)
"Tian Lee is very shy. We are proud of how she directed her play" - Xio Lee
