Be My Guest
Minnesota PBS (formerly Twin Cities PBS) | 2021
Be My Guest is a multi-course engagement project that uses food, storytelling, and short-form media to create conversations between Muslim and non-Muslim communities across Minnesota.
I planned and produced the project’s four events, which were originally designed as in-person community gatherings before the Pandemic required a quick shift to virtual format. I helped rework the event experience for an online audience while maintaining the original goals of the project.
I also developed and produced two of the four short-form videos featured at the events.
PROJECT OBJECTIVES
• Create media and host interactive conversation that drives learning about Islam and Minnesota Muslims
• Host virtual community meals bringing Muslim and non-Muslim participants to the table together to foster empathy and solidarity
• Evaluate, chronicle, and analyze where participants are starting, what stories they share, what they learn, and how they commit to act in solidarity after this event
PROJECT GOALS
The goal was for everyone who watched a video or attended an event to leave…
1. Having learned something new about religion/faith.
2. Feeling more connected to community than when they arrived.
3. Having one actionable step they can take past the event.
by the numbers
267K video views
4 virtual events
732 attendees
be my guest participants shared:
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"I am full! I came to the table with a little to give and received so much! My heart is more open to learning from others different than me."
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“I learned more about others and was inspired and want to connect EVEN more than I already do!”
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“I have absolutely loved and appreciated all of the Be My Guest events. They are so thoughtfully designed and passionately led. The questions are thought-provoking and the conversations are inspiring. I truly come away feeling like I have built community and have more tools in my toolbox for continuing that important work.”
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"It was an invaluable experience to learn from others and grow with others. I've learned a lot from a few people, or from a classroom (a lot from a classroom- A LOT), but this was different and enriching."
event themes
09.30.2021
How do religious practices shape our communities?
10.12.2021
11.04.2021
How can food bridge difference and discord?
How can art illustrate stories of faith?
11.16.2021
How can religious practices support environmental Justice?
