Curtis Slimar
2023 IVLP Impact Award Project: Empowering Women Living with Epilepsy in ZambiaZambia
Curtis Slimar is an experienced and dedicated broadcast professional and media consultant. With more than 10 years of broadcasting experience, he excels in radio production, presentation, live television broadcasting and journalism. As a skilled problem-solver, Mr. Slimar managed a 24/7 broadcasting operation, overseeing a network of local radio transmitters throughout Zambia. His expertise in human resources, team management and technical support has contributed to his professional success. Alongside his broadcasting skills, he is also a trained Public Relations expert with strong communication and relationship-building abilities.
IVLP Impact Award Project: Empowering Women Living with Epilepsy in Zambia
This project empowered women in Zambia with epilepsy, enabling the participants to become self-sufficient and improve their quality of life. Ten women with epilepsy participated in a series of 48 training workshops led by a tutor who has a tailoring business. Participants were provided with basic skills in tailoring. Each week the workshops focused on different aspects of becoming a tailor, including garment-making and entrepreneurship.
A series of radio and television programs and social media posts raised awareness about epilepsy and helped to de-stigmatize the condition. The programs also addressed the social and economic issues faced by epileptic women and provided practical tips for managing the condition.
"We have [had] the chance to acquire a skill that can improve our living standards, regardless of our circumstances." - Project Participant
IVLP Exchange Experience
Curtis participated in the IVLP Project Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists - 21st Century Approaches to Print and Radio Journalism, organized by the U.S. Department of State and the Institute of International Education, in partnership with WorldBoston, Global Ties Kalamazoo, World Partnerships Inc, International Institute of Wisconsin, and Georgia Council for International Visitors.
Curtis' exchange experience led to the development of his IVLP Impact Award Project: "I personally enjoyed my virtual tour of Boston by our hosts Charles Lewis and Doug Struck. Verifying pictures, and other stories we see on social media has really made a positive impact on my work. I also learned a whole lot from the team that advised on how we can commercialize news content. The list is endless."
U.S. Communities Visited
Washington, DC; St. Petersburg, FL; Atlanta, GA; Boston, MA; Kalamazoo, MI; Madison, WI; Milwaukee, WI