Sep 12, 2020
The series SWR Heimat, for which I work as a writer and director, was awarded the prestigious Bremen Television Prize! I have written and directed 12 episodes of the series so far.
Every year, the Bremen Television Award honors programs from German-language television—from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The series "SWR Heimat" won this year's award for Best Digital Project. Here is a brief statement from SWR about the award: The series gives a voice to a wide variety of people, allowing them to tell their personal stories, express their opinions, and connect with one another. Told through original sound clips, quotes, photo stories, statements, or conversations, they awaken understanding and appreciation for the world of others: for the garbage collector who has to clean up the mess after Carnival, for someone whose passion is greening his hometown of Mainz. It also addresses breastfeeding in public, volunteer work, the fight against everyday racism, and, last but not least, the emotions of people who care for relatives every day, have lost a child, or are starting a new life after a serious illness. Clichés are dispelled, and answers to taboo questions and prejudices are intended to contribute to better understanding among each other. This also makes "SWR Heimat" a project of participation and solidarity among the people of the southwest.
The jury's statement on the award:
"Heimat – that actually sounds old-fashioned and dusty. But SWR's Instagram project 'Heimat' is simply cool. It captures the stories of people from the region and knows no taboos. What moves the community is implemented and discussed. Interaction is a top priority, and the shared sense of life is strengthened. A compelling project that fully utilizes the platform's potential and doesn't shy away from challenging discussions," said laudatory speaker Clare Devlin.