By Meerashree Sundara Raju, Stanford Master’s Student, Environmental Engineering Program

This project focused on translating ongoing research in Makassar, Indonesia – led by Stanford University’s Rosser’s lab and in collaboration with Hasanuddin University (UNHAS), into a compelling, funder-facing narrative. The lab’s research examines how rapid urbanization, waste accumulation, and climate-driven flooding and global temperature raise shape dengue transmission in informal settlements, using drone imagery, AI-enabled mapping, and epidemiologic data to identify high-risk environments. While the initial goal was to develop an animated explainer video, I recognized the importance of retaining a human-centered perspective. I worked to reframe the storytelling approach to integrate both scientific innovation and lived community experiences, highlighting the realities faced by children and families most vulnerable to dengue.

A key learning emerged through the process of translating vision into execution across geographies. From ideating the storyboard to coordinating with in-country teams to capture footage, I experienced firsthand the challenges of communicating creative intent, realizing that what is envisioned is often interpreted differently on the ground. This required adapting the narrative based on available media while preserving the core message. Additionally, I stepped beyond my comfort zone by engaging in video editing for the first time, developing technical skills alongside strategic communication. The final video serves a dual purpose: simplifying complex research for funders and creating an emotional connection to the impact their support can enable. It will be used in funder presentations and disseminated through lab and global health platforms to broaden awareness and support for scalable, community-informed solutions at the intersection of climate and health.