In an era of endless news feeds, clickbait and viral headlines, some of the most powerful stories remain unheard — not because they lack voices, but because they lack platforms. This understanding is what drives ConnectHER, an Austin-based nonprofit, founded by Lila Igram in 2011, that empowers women and girls across the globe to share their own narratives through film.
“Every time I saw someone talking about me or people that looked like me, it wasn’t people from my background or community,” recalls Igram, reflecting on her upbringing in Iowa. This observation would later be a pillar of ConnectHER’s mission — authentic representation.
The organization has grown into an ecosystem of five interconnected programs, each reinforcing the others. At its core it is a film festival that showcases the work of young filmmakers ages 14 to 25, focusing on global women’s issues, but what sets ConnectHER apart isn’t just the platform it provides but the change that comes afterwards.
Films that change lives
Take the story of Asma, a young girl from Bangladesh who was featured in a 2016 film submission. The five-minute piece captured Asma’s daily routine of selling tea from morning until night, followed by domestic chores, all while harboring dreams of education. The film’s impact was immediate and far-reaching. Through coordination with the local filmmaker, ConnectHER arranged for Asma to attend school by providing funds to hire someone to replace her at the tea stall. Today, she is in college, and her story has inspired a scholarship program that supports the education of around 100 girls within her community.
“Sometimes you’ll hear people say ‘I’m giving them a voice,’” says Igram. “We never say that because we are not giving anyone a voice — we are providing an opportunity and a platform, because they have very strong voices, believe me.”
Empowering communities through action
This philosophy extends through all of ConnectHER’s initiatives. Their Project Partners program invests in women who are already making changes in their communities. The Fellowship program enables past film festival participants to teach filmmaking and digital technology to peers. Pitch Fest connects their network of over 2,000 filmmakers from 93 countries with organizations like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to create commissioned films. Most recently, ConnectHER Clubs have established a local presence in Austin schools, ensuring the organization maintains roots in its home community.
ConnectHER’s impact is visible in the evolution of the films themselves.
“We’re seeing a trend towards less stories of doom and gloom, and more uplifting optimistic stories, despite increasingly difficult situations,” explains Igram.
From a 9-year-old climate activist in Pakistan to powerful narratives from Gaza, the films are more than a showcase of global issues, but also stories of resilience and hope.
Global impact from local roots
As the organization is and always has been Austin-based, Igram notes that operating a globally-minded organization in an “extremely locally-minded city” presents its challenges, but despite this, she remains committed to their international focus.
“The impact that I’m seeing from the women that we are serving is just phenomenal,” says Igram. “I would not do it any other way.”
ConnectHER’s approach challenges traditional nonprofit models by identifying and supporting local changemakers who already understand the needs of their communities.
The organization’s work offers a broader lesson about cross-cultural understanding.
“If you’re hearing something about a culture or community, find someone from that culture or community and ask them what they think — instead of jumping to conclusions,” explains Igram. “You’ll find diversity and nuance in every community.”
Real stories, real impact
As ConnectHER continues to grow, it remains true to its founding vision of providing a platform for authentic stories, told by those who live them. In doing so, it’s not just changing narratives — it’s changing lives, one girl at a time.
For those interested in supporting ConnectHER’s mission, the organization offers two sustaining programs: the Giving Circle and ConnectHER Gems.
Their annual film festival will be held on April 4 and 5 in the Paramount Theater.
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