Inspired by a trip to Barcelona, Digital Arts & Media BDP Student Will Moore-Jones created Silent Echos, a short film about the unspoken struggles of loneliness.
"The foundation I gained will be invaluable on my journey since it has broadened my understanding of health disparities, barriers to healthcare, disease prevention, health systems and policies, and evidence-based medicine.”
How would you describe this creative project and how did you come up with the idea?
As I wandered through the vibrant streets of Barcelona, a transformative journey unfolded before me. The short film that had once existed only in my mind began to take shape, inspired by the city's pulsating energy and the introspective moments I encountered during my study abroad experience.
In the midst of this foreign land, I found myself diving deep into my own thoughts, grappling with the profound question of what genuinely brings me happiness. The answer, I discovered, was not always clear-cut or easy to come by.
Through the creation of Silent Echos, I sought to give voice to the unspoken struggles that so many of us face – the whispers of loneliness that can sometimes feel overwhelming. This short film became my way of reaching out to others, offering a reassuring message that it's perfectly normal and valid to experience these complex emotions.
But the story doesn't end there. Silent Echos serves as a reminder that the only way to navigate through these challenging moments is by embracing the journey itself. By acknowledging and confronting our inner struggles, we can emerge stronger, more self-aware, and better equipped to find the happiness we seek.
What was the most rewarding aspect of your Connecting Experience?
It was an incredible honor to have my film chosen by IES Abroad as a finalist and to be flown to Chicago for the premiere! The lights and red carpet were amazing, but the real reward was connecting with the audience afterwards. Hearing people open up about their own struggles with loneliness and how deeply the film resonated with them-- that's what it's all about for me as a filmmaker. An unforgettable experience I'll always cherish!
In what ways has this Connecting Experience shaped your plans for the future?
Thanks to the BDP program's incredible support, I'm now pursuing my passion for digital media by making YouTube videos and launching a creative career in digital marketing! The program gave me the chance to explore so many different aspects of filmmaking, and that diverse experience has been invaluable. I'm so grateful for the opportunities and guidance the program provided as I charted my own unique path in the industry.