Strategic Impact Storytelling

translating complex information
into resonant narratives

 
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Service Summary

I provide a 'Whole-Brain' approach to consulting that I call Illuminated Reportage. Most organizations are forced to choose between a technical report that is rigorous but soul-less, or creative storytelling that is beautiful but lacks strategic weight.

I bridge that gap. I synthesize 20 years of program stewardship and policy analysis with 30 years of documentary photography. My lens is focused on the intersection of Systems, Dignity, and Narrative. Whether I’m navigating to support the delicate transition of a nearly $1M program to Indigenous-led governance or documenting climate resilience in a remote island context, my goal is to ensure that the stories of communities, innovators and change agents are captured with the utmost authenticity, cultural sensitivity, safety, and technical precision.

click here: my Practice

 

Share my hobby exploring food & memory at the “Wistful Bite” blog.

Schedule Appointment

Home-based on the northwest pacific coast in the traditional unceded W̱SÁNEĆ territories near Victoria, but willing and able to travel as needed. Do reach out & connect, I would love to help tell your story!

Systems - Dignity - Narrative

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Whole Brain Approach

My practice is built on a Whole-Brain methodology—a synthesis of technical rigor and creative intuition. I provide a unified lens that allows me to see projects from the inside out, ensuring the administrative gears turn with precision while the essential human narrative remains visible.

01. Systems: The Structural Foundation (The Left Brain)

I begin by analyzing the architecture of the work. Drawing on a Master’s in International Development and experience in public service and non-profit worlds (from the international to local), I navigate the socio-economic and political forces at play. I don't simply report findings; I synthesize complex systemic ideologies into clear, actionable, and evidence-based insights.

02. Dignity: The Respectful Witness (The Heart)

At the heart of every project is the human element. My approach is grounded in intuitive reciprocal relationship building, drawing on a cross-culturally respectful method of building trust. Whether in high-level diplomacy or remote community settings, I serve as a witness to stories, ensuring every narrative is captured with authenticity, cultural sensitivity, safety, and dignity.

03. Narrative: The Visual Translation (The Right Brain)

This is where complexity becomes resonance. As a classically trained image-maker, I translate lived experience and qualitative data into palatable, high-impact visual stories. Using an interdisciplinary lens, I transform "reporting" into compelling documentary photography and digital archives that connect with funders and the public through emotional and situational integrity.

A Reciprocal Journey

My work balances professional precision with a dedicated artistic practice. By honoring my own creative cadence—exploring analog mediums and experimental printing—I ensure that my consulting work remains innovative, visually sophisticated, and deeply informed.

I am a curious collaborator committed to social equity. My mission is to ensure that as we build better systems and dismantle the ones that no longer serve us, we never lose sight of the beauty, ingenuity, and humanity of the people within them.

Testimonials

“I was fortunate to work alongside Lara, who while wearing multiple hats, brought our social cohesion project to new heights with her incredible media savvy. This program which reached immigrant and refugee youth across Canada, was hinged on using social and multi-media as platforms for learning and empowerment… She is a creative powerhouse…”

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"Lara has an expansive knowledge with regard to photography, design, layout and photo editing. Lara's photographs [for us] have been featured in such publications as Essential Vancouver, Where Magazine, Preview, American Indian Art, and the Vancouver Sun…”

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“Working effectively in foreign contexts requires sincerity, an open mind, and a lot of confidence…This ability demonstrates Lara’s skills for working in cross-cultural, even stressful environments while maintaining rapport, composure and grace.”

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“ It was a pleasure to see the obvious interest of Ms. Hill in the many facets of Tajik society, something that she sought to record on film and managed to do, in my opinion, with uncommon brio.”

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“…Caught between her curiosity and her work ethic, Ms. Hill is in the enviable position of being ever refreshed by her progress through life, through ideas, and through the world.”

Click here for full testimonials

Developing a Lessons Learned project analysis, on field mission for the UN Development Program in Laamu Atoll, Maldives.

Click here to learn a bit more about my story and credentials.