ideator and futurist
Urvashi's life’s journey has been focused on SBCC and how it can work towards bringing in social change. She has been at the forefront of creating ground-breaking BCC for building awareness and ensuring equitable justice for the girl child and women. She created, produced, and directed a PSA on ‘the right age of marriage for the girl child’ and defined masculinity in a new way through that film. She also helmed the nationally renowned ‘Paheli ki Saheli’ campaign on menstruation for UNICEF. Many campaigns were designed under her of which the Right to Education, Census 2011, and National Population Register comes straight to mind. Her professional life has been spent majorly on projects impacting people while working for organizations like Marie Stopes Foundation, JWT’s Social Practice and DDB Mudra Group. She has been awarded for work done under her guidance by Effies for the Red Ribbon Express and Paheli ki Saheli (both projects done for UNICEF). She has won awards at the AME Asia, New York Festival and Abby’s for both these projects and a Zinc -ORS campaign for WJCF. She has been awarded the Laadli award for a project on the age of marriage for girls. Besides founding Storytellers, she has created a girl gang that shares her zeal to change the world for the better for women. Her acumen for building SBCC campaigns was demonstrated in the areas of addressing stigma that TB sufferers are subjected to for ABT Associates, USAID, and Government of India. The BCC campaign so designed was instrumental in the production of 7PSAs in video format for national broadcast. As COVID-19 struck she admirably helmed her team that worked in documenting the vaccination campaign that was implemented by the Government of Madhya Pradesh. She has undertaken many projects in the realm of documentation of best practices. Projects like, designing and developing content for annual reports for Plan International, designing annual report and website for Lotus petal foundation, COVID Vaccination campaign documentation for JSI and the Government of India in 18 states, and Malnutrition and Anemia management in Madhya Pradesh for WJCF. She has also worked on projects like Male Engagement on Nutrition and Contraception for PCI Global, a multi-media campaign on vaccine hesitancy during COVID for the Government of Punjab and the Fortification of Rice project for Nutrition International. Having guided the documentation for UNICEF child protection work for COVID Orphans, she is now doing the same in early childhood development or ECD for UNICEF as well as steering projects on TB for the Union. When she finds time, she visits colleges around the country lecturing students who listen with rapt attention her experiences in practicing the various tenets of BCC.
Thinker and Mentor
Soumitra has more than three decades of experience in agencies like D’Cunha, iB&w, Madison, Havas Group, Contract and DDB Mudra Group. As President DDB Remedy he worked in diverse areas of development communications ranging from education to contraception to girl child rights to immunization to sanitation. In 2015 along with Urvashi he founded ‘Storytellers’. He is passionate about everything that involves storytelling and is an ardent believer of SBCC and its ability of providing interesting solutions to mitigate social issues. At DDB, he was one of the most ardent supporters of BCC as an important tool for developing communication strategies for brands and issues. He was recognized as an expert with the tool that DDB had created in applying BCC strategies for building brands and promoting awareness and behaviour change in issue-led communication. As a co-founder of Storytellers, he continued on this journey of gathering knowledge and practice on the various SBCC models and also began to gain confidence in related sciences like human-centered design and neurosciences from a behavioural economics lens. He has worked with the team on many ground-breaking projects that are now considered as milestones in the development communication landscape. He is a great believer in needs-assessment and prototype pre-testing studies and is also a step ahead in diving to the depths of any project to understand the real challenges that audiences may face. He enjoys the process of unearthing insights immensely and ensures rigour and discipline in research amongst his team members. His vision with Storytellers is to provide expertise related to SBCC, human-centered design, and neuroscience/behavioural economics-based tools and use them to create storytelling as its primary product. He has worked with his team at Storytellers while they collaborated with IDFC Institute and government of Punjab in the area of vaccine awareness for Covid-19, Clinton Health Access Initiative in the area of sexual and reproductive health, PCI in the area of men’s involvement in nutrition and family planning, and Aga Khan Foundation in the area of enabling childhood education.
Behavior Addict & Change Expert
Kalyani Rajan has over 20 years’ experience as a social and behaviour change communication specialist having worked on numerous issues in India and the SAARC countries (Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka). She has worked in the broad areas of health, water and sanitation, education and protection using behavioural insights and human-centered design approaches to solve challenging humanitarian and development problems/challenges. In her illustrious career, she has led several public health emergency and disease outbreak interventions in India including Polio, H5N1, Zika Virus, HIV, and AIDS in 360-degree communication formats. She has had deep involvement with an extensive range of issues which cover reproductive, maternal, and child health, immunization and preventive healthcare, family planning, adolescent health, NCDs, health sector reforms, water, sanitation and hygiene, gender equity, protection against violence on women and children, education, water conservation, environment protection, etc. Prestigious project partners include UNICEF, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, FHI360, UN Women, John Hopkins University Centre for Communication Programmes, Water & Sanitation Programme, etc. At Storytellers she brings her specialist tag in strategic planning and design with deep knowledge of research practices and behavioral insights that gives an in-depth understanding of stakeholders and audiences in their environment leading to effective communication. she ensures with the aid of proven strategic planning processes including scientific behaviour change models, human-centered design approaches, and theories of stimulus-response to motivate in favour of behaviour and attitudinal change. She is a close partner and collaborator with the creative team at Storytellers collaborating with them from development of the brief and giving direction to the approach and guidance along with the process of development and judgement of creatives in terms of achieving the objectives of the program.
Lead SBCC toolkit creation
Viky Arya is not only a renowned founder of Thompson Social, but also poet at heart. She specializes in designing social and development communication. With expertise in art direction, copywriting, and visual literacy, she creates breakthrough BCC packages. She possesses a keen eye to visualize ideas and designs at macro and micro level canvas. Vicky has worked with various development organizations on projects related to child survival and safe motherhood, HIV/AIDS, and gender equity. At Storytellers, Vicky provides workable BCC ideas for partners like UNICEF, PSI, JSI IPL and USAID.
RELATIONSHIP ANCHOR | VISIONARY PROJECT LEADER
Meet Chandamita Barman, the visionary project leader at Storytellers who stands at the helm of the team. With over 15 years of experience in the realm of communication projects, Chandamita's journey has been one of transformation and impact. Her expertise not only spans across diverse brand categories but also delves into critical areas like contraception awareness and promotion, where she has spearheaded initiatives by PSI and WJCF. Chandamita's leadership prowess shines through her role as a captain, where she orchestrates teams to create behavior change communication (BCC) that resonates with end-consumers and patients. Her ingenuity extends to crafting communication aids that empower providers to offer tailored solutions to their patients, and even developing cutting-edge digital solutions that seamlessly bridge the physical and virtual worlds. With a proven track record of success, Chandamita has earned the admiration of clients like UNICEF, PCI, JSI, ABT Associates, Aga Khan Foundation, Nutrition International, WJCF, and The Union, among other esteemed organizations. As the 'Chief Relationship Anchor' at Storytellers, she exemplifies the essence of a relationship builder par excellence. Her ability to foster connections and anchor the team ensures that projects are executed flawlessly, aligning timelines and quality with the mutual vision of clients and Storytellers. Chandamita's leadership goes beyond project management. She embodies the spirit of a true visionary, navigating challenges with grace and turning them into opportunities for growth. Her commitment to achieving transformative results through meaningful communication has solidified her reputation as a Relationship Anchor who not only strengthens the bonds between Storytellers and clients but also paves the way for impactful narratives that shape the world.
(BCC CREATIVE THINKER) CRAFTING IMMERSIVE NARRATIVES TO ENRICH LIVES
Meet Kundan Chakrabarty, the mastermind behind captivating and soul-stirring storytelling at Storytellers. Embracing Ralph Waldo Emerson's timeless advice to leave a positive impact on the world, Kundan has chosen the art of storytelling as his tool for transformation. With an insatiable curiosity about human behavior, he explores the depths of social psychology, cognitive biases, and the workings of our very brains to uncover the essence of why we act the way we do. With a remarkable track record spanning 17 illustrious years in the realm of communication writing, Kundan's journey is an odyssey of triumphs. His expertise shines through in the multitude of successful campaigns he has helmed for prestigious organizations like Abt Associates, JSI, AIF, UNICEF, and The Union. Each project carries the distinct imprint of Kundan's creative genius, blending artful storytelling with a profound understanding of human nature. Diving into the heart of every narrative, Kundan weaves compelling stories that touch hearts, spark conversations, and inspire action. His commitment to driving positive change through storytelling has earned him a reputation as an extraordinary copywriter and storyteller. Whether it's advocating for social causes or empowering non-profits, Kundan's words have the power to transform lives and make the world a brighter place.
(MASTER OF NARRATIVE CONNECTIONS) BRINGING PROJECTS TO LIFE THROUGH UNFORGETTABLE TALES
Introducing Sakshi Chopra, the brilliant mind behind the harmonious fusion of culture, ethos, and storytelling at Storytellers. A visionary copywriter and storyteller, Sakshi breathes life into projects by understanding their very essence and capturing it in unforgettable narratives, especially in the beautiful language of Hindi. Her passion for exploring the cultural tapestry of each undertaking sets her apart as a true narrative artist. Armed with a versatile pen and an innate curiosity, Sakshi has crafted stories and orchestrated multimedia campaigns that have left an indelible mark on clients such as UNICEF, PCI, WJCF, IDFC Institute, JSI, Room-to-Read, Aga Khan Foundation, and more. Her proficiency in Hindi copywriting allows her to connect with diverse audiences, transcending linguistic boundaries and resonating deeply with people across the nation. Beyond the realm of storytelling, Sakshi's talents extend to her exceptional work on documentation campaigns, where she showcases her dedication to detail and precision. Her work with esteemed clients like Plan International, Lotus Petal Foundation, and Wockhardt Hospitals CSR is a testament to her ability to capture the heart and soul of any initiative, eloquently expressed in Hindi. Sakshi's unique ability to forge connections through storytelling has earned her the title of "Master of Narrative Connections." With her pen as a magic wand, she transforms abstract ideas into vivid experiences that resonate with the hearts and minds of audiences, both in Hindi and beyond. As the Storytellers' unrivalled relationship anchor, Sakshi's narratives create enduring bonds between organisations and their audiences, leaving an extraordinary legacy in the world of communication and storytelling.
Relationship Anchor
Meet George Mathew, the Relationship Anchor at Storytellers, whose journey from a tech enthusiast to a creative communication virtuoso is nothing short of inspiring. his involvement in web development, working closely with a top-notch design and content team, that sparked his fascination for the creative side of technology. George ventured into the world of creative communication consulting at the start-up Umbel India, he honed his communication skills as a Public Relations Officer, Now, as a pivotal member of the Storytellers team, George's skills as a Project Lead and Relationship Anchor shine brightly. His journey in the realm of creative communication consultancy continues to evolve, and his tech background has proven to be an invaluable asset in navigating this demanding domain. Whether traveling for documentation shoots or engaging with clients like NI, JSIPL, and UNICEF (IMI), George's prowess in client dealing and communication work has garnered him a reputation as a great listener and problem solver. Within the Storytellers' ecosystem, George has made a name for himself as a versatile consultant, deftly navigating the realms of story building and design. With a penchant for creative problem-solving and an innate ability to build strong relationships, he plays a pivotal role in turning client visions into captivating realities. As the Relationship Anchor, George's dedication to crafting compelling narratives and fostering meaningful connections ensures that every project at Storytellers is not just a success but an unforgettable journey of storytelling and transformation.
(BCC EXPRESSIONIST) MASTER OF VISUAL AND VIDEO NARRATIVES
Introducing Konica Lishoy, the vibrant BCC Expressionist at Storytellers, who breathes life into every project with her exceptional flair for visual and video communication. A true master of storytelling through images and motion, Konica's creative genius knows no bounds. With a self-starter attitude, Konica fearlessly takes on new challenges, working closely with her team to design awe-inspiring campaigns for prestigious clients such as AIF, UNICEF, Abt Associates, WJCF, and Room-to-Read. Her ability to seamlessly adapt her narratives to various mediums ensures that each story resonates deeply with its intended audience, leaving a lasting impact. At the heart of Konica's brilliance lies her talent for comprehending complex issues and transforming them into compelling visual stories. Her keen eye for detail and profound understanding of her subjects make her a storytelling virtuoso, capable of evoking emotions and driving action through her art. Beyond her prowess in visual and video communication, Konica's excellence extends to her meticulous documentation of campaigns for organizations like WJCF, Plan International, and Lotus Petal Foundation. As a storyteller who values the essence of every initiative, she leaves no stone unturned in preserving and immortalising the stories that truly matter. With her unique set of skills and captivating narratives, Konica stands as the BCC Expressionist, creating a world of emotions and experiences that resonate deeply with audiences. Her work transcends boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of communication and storytelling. Through her art, she weaves a tapestry of unforgettable tales that inspire, enlighten, and shape the world for the better.
BCC DESIGN EXPRESSIONIST
Meet Ankita Mehra, the BCC Design Expressionist at Storytellers, whose passion for creative design has been a driving force from an early age. Her creative journey began in 7th grade when she started designing newsletters for her school, eventually joining the editorial team. Since then, Ankita's fascination with design has only grown, leading her to pursue a Graphic Design Specialisation from CalArts, after completing her B.A. in Political Science from JMC, Delhi University. Ankita's dedication to practical design and innovative expression has earned her an impressive portfolio with diverse experiences. As a key player in Marketing Agencies, she has collaborated with international clients and Indian start-ups, showcasing her versatility in a wide array of creative projects. Ankita's expertise shines through in her work on BCC campaign designs for prominent clients like UNICEF (IMI), JSIPL, IPE, NI, and AIF. Her contribution to COVID-19 vaccination-related initiatives, particularly for IPE Global and JSI IPL, has been instrumental in combatting vaccine hesitancy through compelling visual narratives. Beyond her exceptional design skills, Ankita plays a vital role in the editorial process. As a proofreader and editor, she ensures that every piece of content, from brochures to photo-books, is flawless and impactful. Her meticulous attention to detail guarantees that every message resonates authentically with the audience. Ankita's dedication to excellence extends beyond the design studio. She takes on an active role as a moderator, conducting interviews and assisting with qualitative assessments. Additionally, her willingness to go the extra mile has led her to travel for shoots and participate in pre-tests of campaign creatives as well, ensuring the seamless execution of each project. As an BCC Design Expressionist, Ankita's journey into the design industry is marked by constant growth and a thirst for knowledge. With every step, she pushes the boundaries of her creativity, leaving an indelible mark on each project she touches. Her dedication to crafting compelling narratives and her unwavering commitment to client success make her an invaluable asset to the Storytellers team.
(BCC DESIGN EXPRESSIONIST)
Meet Lavanya, a current student in the product design program at the Symbiosis Institute of Design. Infused with an innate creative spirit, she consistently nurtures ideas and concepts that manifest as vibrant compositions of lines, colors, and forms. This passion drives her academic voyage, where she delves into the intricacies of the design thinking process. Each facet of this process holds immense significance for her — from comprehending user needs to ideation, prototyping, and refinement. Lavanya wholeheartedly immerses herself in honing her skills and insights to master the art of crafting impactful designs. Within her role at Storytellers, she stands as an indispensable contributor, crafting compelling visuals. Her work has been instrumental in numerous campaigns, including notable projects for IMI, JSI, and AIF. While she delves into the intricacies of industrial design during her academic pursuits, Lavanya's endeavors at Storytellers provide a dedicated space for her to cultivate her parallel passion: graphic design. Through these projects, she has honed her proficiency across a spectrum of software tools and design techniques, including composition and balance. Yet, her journey extends beyond technical mastery; it encompasses a profound lesson in the influential power of storytelling to drive behavioral change. This realization has nurtured a sense of responsibility within her as a designer, motivating her to create pieces that prioritize their impact.