In an increasingly polarised world, The Discourse, led by the dynamic William Chen, is on a vibrant mission to reconnect individuals through human-to-human exchanges that transcend identity lines. As the Lens Director of this student-led organisation, Chen focuses on storytelling through interviews, letter exchanges and an engaging monthly book club. Inspired by his experiences in five cities, he founded The Discourse to elevate marginalised voices, recognising the power of stories to bridge divides. With over 100 published interview articles and more than 100,000 views on social media platforms like WeChat and Instagram, The Discourse is making a significant impact.
The power of storytelling: a personal journey
Chen’s inspiration for The Discourse stems from his rich background. Growing up in Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Seattle and Vancouver, he experienced unique lessons that shaped his perspective. A memorable encounter with Mr Keshab, a security guard at school who shared his love for Harry Potter, ignited Chen’s passion for storytelling. This unexpected dialogue captivated students and illustrated how stories can transform perceptions, allowing us to see others beyond their roles.
Other impactful moments emerged from interviews with a grandmother selling flowers on a footbridge and a conversation with a domestic helper. Through their stories, Chen illuminated the struggles and beauty of everyday lives often overlooked by society. These instances reflect his vision for a world where stories serve as bridges, connecting diverse cultures and perspectives. He expresses this ethos by stating, “I want to find the things in common, not focus on the differences.”
Innovative leadership through technology
As the Lens Director managing a global organisation of over 200 members, Chen faces the challenge of retaining participants while fostering growth. To address this, he employs clear communication strategies and leverages platforms like WhatsApp, WeChat, Zoom and Tencent Meeting to keep everyone connected and engaged.
A vital aspect of Chen’s management strategy is the coordinator system. Each coordinator oversees a small group of 10 to 15 members, providing personalised support and encouragement. They regularly check in to discuss progress and tackle challenges, helping maintain motivation and fostering a sense of community. “I think having the coordinators was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” Chen states, highlighting their essential role in sustaining the organisation.
A centralised resource system further supports their success, including a question bank, detailed instructions and templates for tasks like outreach and interviews. “This structure simplifies arranging interviews and clarifies the division of labour,” Chen explains. Clearly defined roles for interviewers, editors and translators enable smoother workflows.
Commitment to growth and learning
Chen believes in growing alongside his team, which is why he offers regular training and workshops. These sessions focus on essential skills such as interviewing and editing, providing members with opportunities to learn from experienced professionals and each other. For instance, a former investigative journalist from The New York Times recently led a workshop, inspiring the team and enriching their skill sets.
Monthly gatherings allow participants to voice feedback and suggest new initiatives, like the Inkbridges letter exchange programme and the Book Club. This responsive approach nurtures trust and helps the organisation adapt, ensuring it meets the needs and interests of its members.
Expanding horizons: the future of The Discourse
Chen’s vision for The Discourse extends beyond interviews and online interactions. With the recent launch of Inkbridges and the Book Club, he aims to energise connections among participants and encourage the sharing of diverse perspectives. “The Book Club opens a space for discussions that lead to understanding and empathy,” he notes.
“You connect students from schools across vastly different backgrounds,” Chen emphasises. The letter exchange project not only promotes empathy but also builds friendships, weaving together interconnected stories that celebrate humanity. With around ten flourishing chapters – including schools in the US and China – Chen is eager to expand these initiatives, creating even more opportunities for meaningful engagement.
Call to action: join the movement
For students seeking global connections, The Discourse offers invaluable opportunities to learn, grow and engage. By participating, students can sharpen their storytelling skills, immerse themselves in cultural exchanges and broaden their understanding of international issues. This is not just a chance to contribute to a project; it’s an invitation to be part of a larger narrative, where every voice matters and every story counts.
Chen’s journey with The Discourse illustrates that nurturing human connections is both possible and essential in today’s world. The stories shared through this platform remind us that, despite our differences, the human experience unites us in profound ways.
As The Discourse continues to evolve, it invites you to join in the mission of reconnecting communities through shared narratives. This is not merely an opportunity to take part in a project; it’s an invitation to be part of a larger story, one where every voice matters and every story counts.
