INTRODUCING EQUALS
Equals brings together the consultancy work of Gareth Benest, a communications consultant and participatory media practitioner working with people and organisations to develop stories with communities, not about them. I work with people and organisations to explore complex issues and communicate in ways that are accurate, engaging and deeply human.
My work is grounded in more than 25 years of participatory practice, facilitation, creative production and strategic communications. Based in the UK, I work with communities, activists and civil society organisations around the world, supporting communications that are collaborative, ethical and rooted in lived experience. Here’s some more about me.
To discuss a project or explore working together, please get in touch. You can also read what previous clients have said about working with me on the testimonials page.
“Gareth’s drive, dedication, diligence and exceptional professionalism significantly contributed to the success and impact of our programme.”
“Our issues were only ever whispered among ourselves, between widows. We have never spoken about our problems openly…let alone discuss them with the Chief! Now our issues are being shared and we have sensed change in the air.”
participatory practice
As a participatory video practitioner I have worked with marginalised communities around the world to explore their issues and tell their stories, from their perspective and in their words. I have written three guidebooks on various aspects of participatory practice and its capacity to harness local knowledge, promote community-devised solutions, shift power dynamics, and mobilise disengaged citizens.
“Reliable, driven, on-time, on-spec and creative - that’s Gareth Benest, and so much more. If you want someone who shines with integrity, doesn’t settle for less and can move mountains, you’ve got your man.”
“Gareth Benest is one of those people who are always a pleasure to work with. He makes sure that projects are executed with high level of professionalism”
writing & editing
My consultancy services include writing and editing content for publications, articles, reports, websites, promotional materials and presentations. Follow the links below to access various examples of my writing (including three books on participatory practice) and numerous publications I have edited in recent years.
film
Working across a range of campaigns, advocacy and awareness-raising initiatives, I provide a range of filmmaking services as video editor, producer, camera operator, script-writer and director. Recent productions include a short video on state capture and an animation on land corruption across Africa.
design
I regularly undertake graphic design projects for clients, ranging from designing publications and reports through to promotional materials, exhibition stands and poster presentations. Follow the link below for some recent examples of my design work for various international development agencies.