For 30 years, the Overseas Briefing Center (OBC) has provided detailed information about all embassies and consulates around the world. Some of those resources include audiovisuals that portray what it's like to really live and work in a particular country. Over 800 DVDs are available for viewing at the resource center and a large portion of those shows are also accessible on computer desktops worldwide via the Department's internal BNET broadcast service.
In 2007, during the 30th anniversary celebration of the OBC, we organized a video contest to reach viewers outside the Department's internal viewing system. Titled, Clips to Go, the short videos depicted cross-cultural vignettes, "a day in the life of a US diplomat" excerpts, and a glimpse at the sometimes challenging working conditions of American diplomats.
How We Did It
We asked contestants to produce short video clips and post their work on Google Video or YouTube. A panel of judges selected the following winners based on the criteria: solid production value, success in portraying what it's like to live in the place, and creativity and general interest.
Winning entries:
Vienna - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GF8OGNePkoY
Amsterdam - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fHNVtLtGmw
Honorable mentions:
Niamey - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFlG2yviuts
Jerusalem - http://gallery.mac.com/logalbo/100017 ; http://gallery.mac.com/logalbo/100030
The response was fantastic and the 2009 Clips to Go Contest will expand to include public voting for best video. Prizes will be awarded to the top three winners. Look for additional information coming this summer or view the previous entry form for the rules.
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