“Storytelling is even more powerful as it engages diverse groups through the digital sphere”
Katerina Vasileiou
Why storytelling is so important and how SUSTAGRI 4.0 will feature this in our E-Course are two of the questions that Katerina Vasileiou (iAgroCert) answered during this brief conversation.
Hi, Katerina. To start, Why is storytelling so important as a skill that forms part of the E-Course?
Storytelling, as a recent and effective technique in the context of digital marketing, holds a central role within the SUSTAGRI E-Course. In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, where attention spans are fleeting and information overload is the norm, storytelling has emerged as a powerful tool to capture and engage audiences. Its ability to create emotional connections, communicate complex ideas in an effective and memorable way and differentiate brands makes storytelling an invaluable skill for small-scale farmers and agribusiness owners seeking to promote their products and navigate the transition to Agriculture 4.0.
The module within the E-Course dedicated to storytelling equips participants with the necessary knowledge and techniques to leverage this compelling communication approach. By harnessing the potential of storytelling, learners can effectively convey their message, forge cultural connections and drive meaningful impact in the digital marketing realm of the agricultural sector.
How has storytelling transformed in the digital age?
The art of storytelling has developed to be more dynamic, interactive and inclusive in the digital age. Storytelling, originating from the ancient practice of cave paintings, has transformed into a vibrant tapestry that seamlessly blends age-old traditions with cutting-edge innovation. Over the course of history, storytelling has undergone remarkable evolution, embracing the opportunities presented by the digital age and expanding its reach to new horizons. The combination of technology and narrative has created countless opportunities for capturing audiences’ attention, promoting cross-cultural understanding and creating significant change in the agriculture industry and beyond. Today, stories come alive through high-definition videos, captivating images and dynamic digital mediums, engaging the senses, and sparking the imagination of audiences worldwide. These innovative techniques enable storytellers to transport their listeners to virtual realms, where they can explore landscapes, sounds and emotions intricately woven into the fabric of each tale.
What excites you most about this project?
Coming from a rural area of Greece, we understand the needs and challenges of farmers firsthand. Agriculture forms the backbone of our communities, and we have witnessed the importance of sustainable practices for the well-being of our environment and future generations. Through our own experiences, we have also seen the transformative power of sustainable practices in agriculture. Implementing methods that conserve resources, minimise pollution and prioritise the well-being of ecosystems not only safeguards the environment but also enhances the resilience and productivity of farms.
Sustainable agriculture ensures that future generations can inherit a planet capable of providing their needs. Moreover, integrating digital marketing skills into the SUSTAGRI 4.0 project opens new horizons for small-scale farmers. By harnessing the potential of digital platforms and marketing strategies, farmers can effectively communicate their sustainable practices, reach wider markets and build stronger connections with consumers who prioritise ethical and environmentally friendly products. Empowering farmers with these skills not only enhance their livelihoods but also strengthens the overall sustainability of the agricultural sector.
Katerina Vasileiou
EU Project Manager at iAgroCert
