Why We Produced Free the Slaves’ Untold Story

522 Productions is proud to assist Free the Slaves as the winner of the #untoldstory nonprofit video contest, launched in July 2019. 522 Productions is an award-winning video production company committed to driving social change through the videos we create. As we celebrated our 15-year anniversary, we launched the inaugural #untoldstory video contest for nonprofits, […]
December 8, 2020

522 Productions is proud to assist Free the Slaves as the winner of the #untoldstory nonprofit video contest, launched in July 2019.

522 Productions is an award-winning video production company committed to driving social change through the videos we create.

As we celebrated our 15-year anniversary, we launched the inaugural #untoldstory video contest for nonprofits, where we offered up to $12,000 in video production services as an in-kind contribution to the contest winner.

According to 522 CEO, Alisa Vossen, “Nonprofit organizations have meaningful stories but sometimes struggle to share their messages due to time, budget and other resources.”

The #untoldstory was launched to give back to those who serve the community and make a major impact in the world. Alisa and her team at 522 Productions were honored and inspired by the number of applications and overwhelming support that they received through the nonprofit contest. Each of the organizations that applied share 522’s vision: to drive change for good. “More than ever, we feel invigorated to continue to share the #untoldstory. There are so many people committing their lives to our communities, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to give back.”

Free the Slaves is a nonprofit organization committed to liberating people from modern forms of slavery around the world, as well as changing the social, economic, and political conditions that allow slavery to persist. According to Terry FitzPatrick, Communications  Director at Free the Slaves, the organization has always believed in the power of storytelling to catalyze social change. “When people see the brutality of modern slavery and how it is linked to their own consumer choices, progress becomes possible. But we also know that filmmaking is an art. To be effective, you need creativity. To stay effective, you need a fresh voice. That’s why we’re thrilled that 522 is lending their talent to our cause.”

The Untold Story. Video is a powerful medium to tell your story. In fact, 86 percent of marketing departments use video to increase conversions, drive donations or support for their mission, and optimize their strategic initiatives. It’s undeniable that video has revolutionized the way companies share their mission and build their brand. Especially for nonprofits, video is a powerful way to embrace an organization’s #untoldstory and tell them in a variety of ways.

For Free the Slaves, the challenge is to prove that slavery can be conquered. That’s their untold story, and as they celebrate their 20th year as an organization in 2020, FitzPatrick believes that this video project will help their organization portray their vision for years to come. “We hope this video will build a bridge between enslaved communities that need help and communities with the resources to provide it. Once people realize that they may be complicit, they won’t be complacent.” 

Can you help end the conditions that cause modern slavery?

Related Posts

From Pain to Power: Survivors Network Kenya Launches Bold Strategic Plan to End Human Trafficking

From Pain to Power: Survivors Network Kenya Launches Bold Strategic Plan to End Human Trafficking

In a groundbreaking step for survivor leadership in Kenya, the Survivors Network Kenya (SNK) has launched its first Strategic Plan (2025–2027). Developed through a participatory, survivor-led process with support from Free the Slaves and the UK FCDO, the plan outlines a bold vision to end human trafficking and modern slavery—placing those with lived experience at the center of change.

read more
Field Visit Report: Exploring Institutional Collaboration on Human Trafficking and Forced Labor in Chile

Field Visit Report: Exploring Institutional Collaboration on Human Trafficking and Forced Labor in Chile

Free the Slaves met with national stakeholders in Chile to explore new avenues for collaboration in the fight against human trafficking and forced labor. Through targeted training, a national seminar, and strategic discussions with government officials, this visit laid the groundwork for future partnerships to strengthen institutional capacity and advance anti-slavery efforts across the country.

read more
The Modern Slavery Glossary: Standardizing the Language of Freedom

The Modern Slavery Glossary: Standardizing the Language of Freedom

Effective action against modern slavery requires more than just awareness—it demands precision. Misused or misunderstood terms can weaken policies, misdirect resources, and fail those most affected. The Modern Slavery Glossary, developed by Free the Slaves, is a vital resource designed to standardize the language used in advocacy, policy, and survivor engagement.

read more