SPEAK!
Empowering communities through storytelling, creativity, and action to break the silence on gender-based violence.
Be an upstander, not a bystander.
Break the chain of silence.
The SPEAK awareness-raising campaign, part of the larger EQUAL – Together We Stand for Gender Equality project, focuses on combating GBV and transforming societal norms. By aligning with universal values such as human rights and democracy, the SPEAK campaign aims to inform, engage, and inspire communities to take a stand.
At the heart of the SPEAK campaign lies the animated short film SPEAK! Released on November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the film serves as a powerful narrative tool to address GBV and challenge the culture of silence that sustains it. Through vivid animation and compelling storytelling, SPEAK! highlights the role of bystanders—individuals who witness acts of oppression but often remain silent—in breaking the cycle of violence.
Rather than focusing on overt violence, the film highlights subtler forms of oppression—small gestures, societal pressures, and unchecked norms that sustain harm. By encouraging viewers to reflect on their own roles, the film inspires action and demonstrates the transformative power of speaking up. As a cornerstone of the campaign, SPEAK! combines emotional resonance with a call to action, making it a key tool for sparking conversation and fostering empathy.
Alongside the film, we launched an international open call for creators—visual artists, photographers, and digital storytellers—to contribute their voices to the campaign. This initiative seeks to amplify the message of equality, empowerment, and zero tolerance for GBV. Participants are encouraged to submit original works that explore the campaign’s core theme: DON'T SPEAK! This way, our project is actively networking with artists, like Aristotelis Rigas, Zeta Douka, Lambros Fisfis, and Yiorgos Hatzipavlou, and other NGOs, including Women on Top and GenderSAFE, to amplify our impact and create a united front against GBV. This partnership strengthens our collective voice, ensuring that the messages of empowerment, bystander intervention, and gender equality reach diverse audiences and drive meaningful change across communities. Our open call was even highlighted in an article in Marie Claire Greece.
Among the notable entries submitted to the campaign, Medidrops made a powerful contribution with a short film that resonated deeply with the campaign's ethos. Centered on the empowering messages "There Is Definitely Beauty in Facing Your Fears!" the film is a striking exploration of courage and resilience. Through its minimalist yet evocative style, the film focuses on the emotional journey of individuals confronting their deepest fears, transforming moments of vulnerability into revelations of strength. The choice of visual elements—soft lighting, poignant close-ups, and rhythmic pacing—creates an atmosphere that is both intimate and universally relatable. By highlighting the internal battles many face in breaking free from fear, the film aligns seamlessly with the campaign’s mission to combat GBV and encourage empowerment. Medidrops’ submission stands out as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of self-discovery and the courage it takes to overcome societal and personal barriers.
The remarkable response from both renowned figures and emerging artists showcased the profound ability of art to drive meaningful change, laying the foundation for a campaign whose impact will extend far beyond the 16 days.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every artist, creator, and storyteller who participated in this journey. Their diverse perspectives and creative expressions stand as a testament to the collective strength of our voices against GBV. From experienced professionals to rising talents, each contribution has been instrumental in amplifying this vital message.
When we SPEAK, we empower. When we empower, we transform.
Partners
Athens Network of Collaborating Experts (ANCE) NGO
TROUT
Duration
10 months (ongoing)
Location
Athens, Greece
Deliverables
Design, develop, manage, and execute the SPEAK Awareness-Raising Campaign
Design, develop, execute, and oversee the physical, digital, and audiovisual communication campaigns
Conceptualisation, script writing, and development of animated short film on GBV
Implementation, coordination, and project curation
Follow the thread: Explore connected journeys.
-
![]()
Project EQUAL
Amplifying female voices for social change.
-
![]()
Black Boxes Online
Mobilizing community efforts. Internationally.
-
![]()
Medidrops
Advocacy-driven creative storytelling.
-
![]()
Logo Lady Studio
Empowering female narratives. Fighting gender-based violence.
-
![]()
GBV S.O.S.
Turning silence into strength and safety.
