The #justB campaign empowers people with lived experience to share their story and use their voice to help increase awareness and advocacy around hepatitis B, combat stigma and discrimination, and encourage more people to get tested, vaccinated, and/or linked to care and treatment. Beginning in 2017, the Hepatitis B Foundation has partnered with StoryCenter to host #justB digital storytelling workshops for over 160 participants from across 22 states in the U.S. and Canada. The #justB campaign includes stories that have been translated and published in 13 languages in addition to English – Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Korean, Arabic, French, Mandingo, Twi, Yoruba, Tagalog, Khmer, Mongolian, and Chuukese.

Over the years since the initial launch of #justB, we have seen just how powerful storytelling is, and how personal stories can be used to promote greater awareness, openness, and discussion around an often stigmatized disease like hepatitis B. We have also learned that the process of storytelling – and participation in storytelling workshops – has a positive and lasting impact on storytellers themselves.

Attending a #justB digital storytelling workshop is a unique and uplifting experience that brings together people directly affected by hepatitis B in a supportive, small group environment (no more than 10 participants), where they can feel free to share openly about their experiences while learning to create short videos or “digital stories” in their own words. During the workshops, participants are guided through a “Story Circle” activity, receive feedback on selecting specific parts of their story to develop their script around, record a voiceover, gather photos and video clips, and combine these materials into short videos around 3-4 minutes long. After the workshops, participants become part of a growing community of more than 160 other storytellers who receive ongoing communications, resources, and opportunities to stay connected and engaged in hepatitis B advocacy and education.

The #justB campaign is open to individuals in North America living with hepatitis B, those affected by the disease, and caregivers who wish to share their experiences. We encourage anyone with a personal story related to hepatitis B to apply and participate.

The stories created during the #justB workshops are used to increase awareness about hepatitis B and are shared through various platforms, including our website, social media, and community events. These stories aim to educate the public, reduce stigma, and encourage individuals to take proactive steps toward testing, vaccination, and treatment.

Yes! The #justB campaign aims to reach diverse communities, and many of the stories have been translated and published in various languages. We encourage storytellers to share their stories in the language they feel most comfortable with, helping us broaden our reach and impact.

After participating in a #justB digital storytelling workshop, storytellers are added to a Google Group and a Facebook Group. These platforms provide a safe space for them to connect with other storytellers, share their experiences, and foster a sense of community. Being part of this storytelling community helps participants feel less alone and offers additional support in their journeys.

Furthermore, storytellers have opportunities to engage in events and initiatives that raise awareness about hepatitis B, such as contributing to our blog, participating in podcasts, and presenting at conferences. These avenues allow storytellers to continue sharing their stories and advocating for increased awareness and action regarding hepatitis B.

No, participation in the #justB workshops is free.

To apply for #justB workshop, visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/justBworkshop

Yes, you have the option to submit your story anonymously if you prefer. We respect your privacy and will work with you to ensure your comfort regarding the information shared.