Local documentary maker to spread word on disability

USQ graduate and documentary film maker Claire Campbell

Ipswich documentary maker Claire Campbell has a message for the world – don’t judge someone before you know their story.

The USQ graduate has set up her own production company, I Am You Productions to create documentaries that open up the lives of people living with a disability and challenge us all to offer them true equality.

'I want to make documentaries that provide a window into the lives of people who are living with a disability, mental illness or other debilitating circumstance such as homelessness and shows how they are perceived by the community,' Claire said.

'I am currently in pre-production, working with the Spina Bifida Association. I will be following several people with Spina Bifida through their daily lives and interviewing them about how their disability is only a small part of who they are and what they have to contribute to the world.

'Already it is clear they have all had some similar experiences, such as people only seeing their disability, not the person behind it.'

Claire feels her own experience of living with a disability has helped her connect with the people in her documentary and to innately understand the challenges they face.

'I have had so many experiences where people treat me one way over the phone, and then they meet me face to face, see the wheelchair and their whole behaviour toward me changes.

'It is frustrating when you have to consistently deal with same issue over and over and prove yourself in a way people without a disability don’t have to.'

Claire, who graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Media (BAM) from USQ Springfield in May, said she created her production company with the goal of creating equality through the media.

'I believe media is the most powerful tool we have to spread a message and I want to make sure the right information gets out there about disability. I hope to have the first documentary finished in July and will be trying to find a home for it on free to air television in Australia.'

BAM Lecturer Ashley Jones said Claire is an inspiration to other media students and people living with a disability.

'Claire is not only taking the initiative to create a body of work in her chosen field, but she is giving back to the community in a positive way at the same time.

'I am looking forward to viewing her first documentary later this year and am sure she will create many more and get her message out into the wider community.'

Contact Details:
Media Contact: Jo-Ann Sparrow, USQ Media, +61 7 3470 4119 or 0438 309 096