From the Nominator

The film introduces you to Carolyn, an alumna who read about the SOAS Sanctuary Scholarships Appeal and opened her home to Michelle, a scholarship recipient, as a gift in kind. SOAS launched the Sanctuary Scholarships Appeal to improve access to higher education for asylum seekers and refugees during a climate of increasing hostility toward global migration. The scheme supports displaced students who do not have access to public funds and are unable to access higher education. The purpose of the video was to highlight the importance of the Sanctuary Scholarships Appeal and show donors how their gift can shape the trajectory of a student’s life.

From the Judges

We found this film to be intimate, personal, and compelling, with a powerful civil rights undercurrent. The submission also has a nice visual tone and is beautifully shot; it is a high-quality production, on a relatively modest budget. The film has a clear “ask” and a well-defined purpose. Carolyn didn’t make a monetary gift, but instead offered a spare room, so in that sense she is not a traditional donor. We found that to be a creative and persuasive approach to a fundraising film.