Dissident Project Unveils Media Fellowship to Empower Voices of Freedom
Empowering Immigrants to Share Their Stories on a Global Scale
The Dissident Project, a platform dedicated to highlighting the experiences of immigrants who have escaped oppressive regimes, is expanding its reach with the launch of the Dissident Project Media Fellowship. This initiative aims to bring their powerful messages beyond classrooms and into the digital space, social media, and mainstream media outlets.
Since its inception in 2022, the project—supported by Young Voices—has organized over 140 live talks, reaching 25,000 high school students across the United States. Now, with the media fellowship, the project will engage an even larger audience through strategic digital content and media storytelling.
Meet the Media Fellows: Alvin Hailin & Gabriela Blanco
Two remarkable individuals, Alvin Hailin from China and Gabriela Blanco from Cuba, will lead this initiative, sharing firsthand accounts of life under authoritarian rule.
Alvin Hailin – Shedding Light on China’s Restrictions
Born in Beijing, Alvin Hailin and his family were denied a Beijing “Hukou”, a restrictive household registration system that limits movement and access to essential services. His outspoken views against the Chinese Communist Party resulted in repeated threats. Seeking freedom, Alvin relocated to the United States, where he now speaks about censorship, surveillance, and political oppression in China.
Gabriela Blanco – A Voice for Cuba’s Freedom
Raised in Havana, Cuba, Gabriela Blanco witnessed the consequences of decades-long communist rule. Her family’s business was seized by the government, and she was separated from her father for over 10 years due to the country’s restrictive policies. In 2019, she reunited with her family in the U.S. and has since become a passionate advocate for democracy, human rights, and economic freedom.
Spreading the Message Through Digital Media
Both Alvin and Gabriela have undergone extensive training in digital storytelling, content creation, and strategic social media engagement. Through this fellowship, they will use social media platforms, video content, and media collaborations to raise awareness about the dangers of authoritarianism, political censorship, and economic oppression.
The Dissident Project is committed to educating and inspiring a new generation about the importance of democracy and individual freedoms. This fellowship will expand the reach of their stories, ensuring that more people understand the harsh realities faced by those who have lived under repressive regimes.
