- Community
Walking around Hangzhou international School with a camera, the lens becomes much more than glass and metal – it is a bridge between moments, a quiet keeper of the stories unfolding all around.
Every video crafted, every interview done, every story shared becomes a chance to cast light on the singular experiences of those within our HIS community.
Through these narratives, I watch connections take root, diversity bloom in celebration, and the school’s reach across the world deepen.
Around the World: A Global Stage for Confidence
One of my video initiatives in recent years is the Around the World video series. Here, students from diverse cultural backgrounds take center stage to share their knowledge and love for their home countries.
In these interviews, I see pride shimmering in their eyes – pride for their heritage, traditions, and identities. This is more than a showcase; it’s an opportunity for students to exude confidence, to stand tall and say, “This is who I am”.
From Shauna M glowing as she talks about her mom’s homemade Indonesian dessert martabak, to Ayrad C. passing on wisdom about Yennayer – Algeria’s beloved tradition tied to its unique calendar – every student who joined this video project wove in pieces of home: the famous places, vibrant festivals, and cherished foods that shape who they are.
School Promo Videos: Building Positive Impact
When students participate in any of our school promotional videos, they’re seizing an opportunity to advocate for their school. Every email they reply to promptly, every project they attend on time, and every smile they share on screen is a testament to their dedication and pride in HIS. These moments become powerful testimonials, showcasing the positive impact our environment has on their growth.
For instance, a student might share how a teacher’s guidance helped them overcome a challenge, or how a club activity sparked a new passion. Those stories matter. They don’t make the school sound like a list of facts; they make it feel human.
Take the professional campus drone shoot we conducted this October – over 200 students and teachers took part in this very ambitious project, and their enthusiasm made the project truly stand out. In every moment, students became ambassadors, using their voices to highlight what makes our community special.
Grade 9’s Radhika proactively approached me to ask if she could join the staircase scene, eager to contribute. Days before production, Grade 5’s Philip along with Grade 6’s Reyhaan and Afonso, checked in with me repeatedly to confirm the shooting schedule. They even asked to practice their drone-flying skills in advance, all because they wanted to showcase their best, and the best of HIS.
The Upper School Boys’ Volleyball Team went the extra mile too – they repeated serves and blocks over and over, just to help us capture the perfect angle for the camera. And our lead student actors, Grade 9’s Livia and Daniel, embodied the confidence and pride that HIS students are known for, shining brightly on camera.
Parent Interviews: Listening to Our Partners
Interviewing parents is another invaluable opportunity. As stakeholders in their children’s education, parents offer direct insights into what we do well and where we can improve. Their feedback is a compass, guiding us to enhance our programs and services.
A family was lit up talking about our three-way conferences – saying how sitting down with the teacher and student, all together, helps them see exactly where their child needs support, how it makes learning feel more full and connected.
Another parent laughed while recalling a memorable PAFA experience: the Zumba lesson where many of them had their first attempt at the fun dance exercise; or the strenuous PAFA hikes they planned – little things that don’t just get parents talking, but let them build real bonds, and make memories they’ll joke about later.
It’s never just “this helps” – it’s about how these moments make them feel part of the school, too, not just watching on from the outside.
Jade Dragons: Celebrating Connections
The ongoing Jade Dragon video series is where we celebrate students who have been with us for eight years or more. Their stories – filled with memories, friendships, and growth – are records to treasure for years to come.
Whether it’s recalling their first day on campus or sharing how a particular musical experience helped shape their confidence, these narratives offer valuable lessons for both current and future students. They inspire younger students to dream big and remind us all of the lasting connections we build here.
Capturing Moments, Sharing Opportunities
From time to time, usually when filming, I speak across younger students asking me why we need to make these videos: ‘Will you play them on the school TV?’
I always tell them, “These videos will help more people around the world get to know our school, and see just how amazing this place is.”
Working in the school’s Marcom team means I’m in a unique position to capture these moments and share them with a broader audience.
Whether I’m crafting a script, editing footage, or conducting an interview, I’m always mindful of the opportunities each project presents. Every video is a chance to educate, inspire, and connect.
By sharing these moments, we demonstrate the real-world skills our students develop and the values we uphold. It’s a powerful way to bring the school’s mission to life, turning abstract ideals into something tangible that viewers can both see and feel.