Ebby Magazine


 

STORIES FOR THE NEXT GENERATION



BY REILLY PARKHILL, BRAND STORYTELLING
“Not the Science Type” from 3M, directed by Julio Palacio, is a docuseries featuring four female scientists as they rise to prominence in fields ranging from biology to engineering, to science and technology-based applications and innovations, challenging stereotypes and confronting gender, racial, and age discrimination along the way. While they each took a different road to achieve scientific success, they share the experience of feeling like an outcast or "not the type" in traditionally homogenous scientific fields.
 


“IF YOU INSPIRE A GIRL AND SHOW HER THE DIFFERENT WAYS THAT SHE CAN DO WHAT SHE LOVES, YOU OPEN HER EYES. THEN THEY LOOK AT YOU AND THINK, IF SHE CAN DO THAT, I CAN DO THAT. AND MY MESSAGE TO THEM IS, YES YOU CAN.”

 
 
 
 
 

When you think back to your childhood, do you remember what you wanted to be when you grew up? Did you dream that one day you would be a pop star or become the first woman president? If you just laughed a little, I imagine you are not alone. Stories play an essential role in paving the way for future generations, especially women. There is a good chance that we never experienced a woman playing the role of president in the stories we heard as kids. If we don’t see ourselves reflected in stories, how can we aspire to do more or be more?

Stories have the power to spark movements and empower generations, and brands are taking a leading role in telling these stories. Through full-length feature films, shorts, and episodic programs, brands are connecting their company values with the values of their customers.

In its recently released documentary, “Not the Science Type,” 3M showcases the stories of four female scientists as they rise to prominence in fields ranging from biology to engineering to science and technology while challenging stereotypes and confronting gender, racial, and age discrimination.

“The purpose of this film is to help shape conversations on science diversity, engagement, and advocacy,” said Robert Brittain, Director of Communications at 3M. “We hope it serves as an inspiring catalyst for students who might not otherwise be exposed to positive STEM role models in their everyday lives.”

“Not the Science Type” is recognized as one of the “best in brand-funded filmmaking” by Brand Storytelling, an organization devoted to celebrating innovative storytelling that reflects a brand’s values, empathy, and purpose. 3M joins 21 companies screening films at Brand Storytelling 2022* in Park City, Utah, a sanctioned event of Sundance Film Festival.

Also screening in the film showcase is “Mira Rai: The Girl Who Runs on Happiness” from Red Bull Media House as part of its “The Way of the Wildcard” series. Stepping beyond the epic action sports content the brand is famous for, Red Bull searched for personal stories of success from unexpected places. Now a world-class trail runner, the film explores personal challenges and stigma in Nepal as Mira Rai breaks the barrier to becoming a world-renowned athlete.

"Mira's story is about more than just her overcoming the odds to achieve success. It's about how she does it — with a smile on her face,” said Simon Bell, Managing Director at JustSo. “Her happiness drives her forward. And by tapping into this, she not only wins races, but she's making a positive change for women in Nepal."

The Red Bull Media House series set out to enable incredible athletes while challenging the audience’s perception of what is possible, ultimately inspiring them to dream bigger and achieve more with their time and talent.

These stories are full of inspiring characters who overcome stereotypes to pave the way for future generations. Brands are championing educational and moving stories to connect in a more meaningful way with their customers. Brand-funded films and the stories they tell will continue to inspire all of us to do and be more.

*Brand Storytelling 2022 will take place in Park City, Utah from January 19-22. View the list of Official Selection films and learn more about virtual attendance at brandstorytelling.tv/events