Through her just-released, 12-part, short documentary series, WOMXN, filmmaker Geneva Peschka spotlights twelve different women whose voices are lesser heard, and often unheard, giving them a platform to be seen and celebrated. Capturing intimate conversations with each, framed by personal experiences and perspectives, WOMXN explores the larger context of “what it’s like and what it means to be a womxn”.

Therese, Yaly, Kristen, Moana, Audrea, Super French, Vinniece, Ushshi, DeVanie, Nancy, Elyse and Shay are the women we meet in the series. Told in 12 parts, WOMXN amplifies each of their individual voices, rendering a powerful and diverse chorus (watch their stories below).

In speaking of the project, one of her latest, Geneva told WYSK, “I wanted to create a series that celebrates diverse voices, especially those from marginalized communities.” She added, “But WOMXN is also a broader homage to the everyday woman, the extraordinary being that she is.”

WOMXN, which started 3 years ago, was shot by an all-women production crew working with little to no budget. In making it a reality, Geneva credits the women around her as her inspiration, calling special attention to one… “especially my mom, who is my hero.”

WOMXN WORKSHOP

To expand on her project’s impact, Geneva released WOMXN with this mini-workshop. It’s centered on helping audiences make connections and build community, whether the series is viewed among friends or with larger groups.

Instructions (to be facilitated in pairs):

  • Introduce yourself (first and last name) and your preferred pronouns.
  • Question 1 – How do you feel after you’ve watched the WOMXN Series?
  • Question 2 – What WOMXN did you feel the most connection to and why?
  • Question 3 – Can you share the moment or a time when you realized your power and greatness?
  • Question 4 – What would you say to your younger self or to your child about being who you are and coming into your greatness / power?

Best Practices:

  • Create Space for Your Conversation Partner. Share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with sharing.
  • Keep an Open Mind. Be open to listening to your partner’s story, no matter what comes up. Check your bias and use this as a learning opportunity.
  • Be Fully Present. It’s easy to get distracted by technology and alike in one-on-one conversations. Be fully present and exercise the best of your listening skills to help the other person feel fully seen and heard.
  • Practice Consent. Assume that your partner’s story is to be kept confidential unless they expressly give consent for you to share.
  • Give Gratitude. Make sure to thank your conversation partner for sharing their story with you. Let them know what you’ve learned or what about their story inspired you.