Steps for the Future Facilitator's Guide

Steps for the Future is a collection of films that aims to educate and encourage discussion on the topic of HIV/AIDS. This Guide supports the fillms and helps educators to maximise value from the films in their education, mobilisation and advocacy initiatives. The Steps for the Future collection of films is available on VHS in a number of different language versions for both Southern African audiences as well as internationally.

The Steps Facilitator's Guide aims to challenge the conventional usage of film by HIV/AIDS educators and introduces a methodology that encourages participatory discussion. The facilitation process is intended to equip audiences with information and skills that will empower them to make important decisions and take responsibility for their lives.

The Guide provides tips on:

• Selecting an appropriate film from the collection for specific target audiences
  A foldout in the guide allows the user to swiftly identify the film, its length, appropriateness in terms of age and target audience and the key issues addressed by each of the films.
• Organising and setting-up a screening
  This section provides information on all the technical requirements for the screening of films. Tips ranging from the nature of the equipment required to how the equipment should be assembled and connected is provided.
• Facilitating the screening as to generate optimum discussion
  Focus is placed on the role of the facilitator during screenings. The section also briefly makes reference to the management of audiences and the evaluation of discussions post screenings. Bearing in mind that facilitation is a skill enhanced through practice, users are encouraged to apply these skills in community work and adapt them to suit their unique environments.

Additional information on the areas of advocacy, transmission, prevention, disclosure, treatment, nutrition, gender and sexuality is provided in the form of appendices. These serve as a resource for further reading but should not preclude the user from seeking more information. The guide also provides a list and addresses for regional HIV/AIDS organisations and support groups throughout Southern Africa. These organisations are a vital resource to communities in need of assistance and advice.