Empowering Voices: Inside the AWAS Digital Media Training Workshops led by AMAM

In July 2026, the HOC Centre in Ħal Far hosted a comprehensive digital media training program for AWAS (Agency for the Welfare of Asylum Seekers) participants, consisting of three sessions held on July 3rd, July 10th and July 17th, 2026. Led by a team of volunteers from African Media Association Malta (AMAM) - trainer Adam AKINLOLU, and coordinator Oluwatobiloba DADA - the program was designed to build practical, holistic skills in media literacy, storytelling and digital content creation. The training is an organic initiative of AMAM, designed to support residents of refugee centres by equipping them with basic life skills that will help them integrate into the wider Maltese community. 

Picture of Session 2: Mobile Videography. African Media Association Malta. All rights reserved. 

Session 1: Mobile Photography Workshop (July 3rd, 2026)

The training initiative launched on July 3rd with a session dedicated to Mobile Photography. The primary objective was to strengthen storytelling and self-presentation skills through fundamental camera techniques. The program grounded attendees in core compositional techniques, including the rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, and symmetry, which they applied by photographing objects around the classroom. Participants also analyzed how different lighting conditions drastically alter portrait photography. Attendees were finally introduced to photo editing software such as Snapseed and Lightroom Mobile.

Session 2: Mobile Videography Workshop (July 10th, 2026)

On July 10th, the program transitioned to Mobile Videography. This workshop emphasized creating steady, professional-looking footage and applying basic editing skills. Attendees practiced capturing wide shots, medium shots, close-ups, and b-roll footage. To ensure professional-looking footage, the facilitator highlighted stabilization techniques, allowing participants to film and compare videos filmed handheld against those recorded using tripods. Participants engaged in a hands-on tutorial using CapCut, where they successfully added voice-overs to their short videos. The session concluded with a vital discussion on the importance of verifying information before sharing it online to prevent the spread of misinformation. 

Session 3: Social Media Training and Content Creation Workshop (July 17th, 2026)

The third workshop on July 17th focuses on Social Media Strategy and Content Creation. The program culminated in a practical application of previously learned skills through a candle business case study. Participants learned how to market products by taking appealing promotional photographs and creating short video reels to attract potential customers. Furthermore, the facilitator demonstrated how to craft clear and persuasive captions, and publish stories and posts across platforms like Instagram and TikTok, an exercise that sparked enthusiastic participation and engagement from the group.

The activities took place in the MOAS media center based inside the HOC Residential area, and they were attended by approximately 50 participants. 

Ultimately, the training program empowered attendees with both technical capabilities and digital responsibility, emphasizing the importance of verifying online information to prevent the spread of misinformation.

More sessions will follow with more training topics developed.