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UCL Department of Risk and Disaster Reduction

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Neil George

Neil George

Supervisor: Dr Sonja Ayeb-Karlsson, Dr Estella Carpi and Prof Stephen Hart (UCL SELCS)
Funding: Self-funded
Email: neil.george.24@ucl.ac.uk

Exploring Narratives of Displacement- A Cinematic Inquiry into the Refugee Experience

This research explores the potential of multi-modal storytelling to foster empathy and understanding toward displaced individuals by integrating documentary filmmaking and immersive technology. Using a four-phase methodology, the study examines refugee experiences from various regions through films and documentaries, a complementary virtual reality (VR) experience, an exhibition featuring refugee voices, and a meta-analysis of audience impact.

This interdisciplinary approach combines traditional documentary techniques with immersive media to enhance emotional engagement and comprehension of refugee narratives. The accompanying thesis critically examines this methodology within the contexts of refugee studies, digital storytelling, and immersive media, assessing its theoretical and practical contributions. By bridging academic inquiry with real-world impact, the research aims to advance discussions on narrative research, forced migration studies, and digital humanities while informing future storytelling strategies and humanitarian interventions.

Publications

Qualifications

  • MA Broadcast Futures, City, University of London (2010)

Accomplishments

Multi award-winning film director on feature and short documentaries, including;

  • Dodomu, 2023
  • Writing to Reach You, 2021
  • Crossroads, 2019
  • After the Sewol, 2017
  • While They Watched, 2015

Teaching experience

  • Taught film and documentary production at Dong-Ah Institute of Media and Arts, South Korea between 2011-2021
  • Taught film and documentary production and media studies at Higher College of Technology, Dubai between 2021-2024