Blend Ability: The Short Film That’s Changing Perspectives on Inclusive Hiring
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Storytelling has the power to change perspectives, shift narratives, and create real impact. At VGM Visual Storytelling, we believe that the most powerful way to showcase an organization’s mission is not through scripted ads or polished corporate messaging, but through authentic, documentary-style storytelling—where real people share their real experiences.
Blend Ability is the perfect example of how this approach can transform the way people think about inclusion in the workforce.
This project began as a submission for the Art of Documentary’s One Day Documentary Competition, a challenge designed to push filmmakers to create meaningful stories in just a short amount of time. But from the moment we started filming, it was clear that this story was bigger than a single short film. The impact of Not Your Average Joe—a coffee shop committed to hiring people of all abilities—was profound, and the stories we captured were raw, moving, and deeply human.
Through an unscripted, observational approach, we were able to go beyond the surface and capture the real emotions, struggles, and triumphs of both employees and employers. We didn’t just film a business—we filmed a community.
The response was overwhelming. Blend Ability won Best Emerging Filmmaker and the Audience Award, voted on by nearly 300 filmmakers worldwide. From there, the film gained momentum, winning five international awards, earning two finalist recognitions, and receiving an official nomination for Best Social Impact Documentary.
But beyond the accolades, Blend Ability resonated with people because it told a story that is often overlooked: the untapped potential of individuals with disabilities in the workforce and the businesses that are thriving because they embrace inclusion.
Why This Story Matters More Than Ever
Today, businesses and organizations are looking for more meaningful ways to connect with their audiences. Traditional marketing doesn’t have the same impact it once did—people are drawn to authenticity, real experiences, and emotionally compelling narratives. This is where documentary storytelling stands out.
Instead of telling people why something matters, a documentary-style approach shows them. It invites audiences to witness firsthand the impact an organization is making, creating an emotional connection that no scripted video could achieve.
With Blend Ability, this approach was critical in showcasing the heart of Not Your Average Joe. Rather than a corporate overview or a rehearsed testimonial, the film brings viewers directly into the lives of the employees—showing their excitement, their challenges, and the confidence that comes from having a job that values them.
It’s a human-first approach to storytelling that makes the audience feel something, and that’s what creates lasting change.
Expanding Into a Full Series (Coming in 2025)
Today, businesses and organizations are looking for more meaningful ways to connect with their audiences. Traditional marketing doesn’t have the same impact it once did—people are drawn to authenticity, real experiences, and emotionally compelling narratives. This is where documentary storytelling stands out.
Instead of telling people why something matters, a documentary-style approach shows them. It invites audiences to witness firsthand the impact an organization is making, creating an emotional connection that no scripted video could achieve.
With Blend Ability, this approach was critical in showcasing the heart of Not Your Average Joe. Rather than a corporate overview or a rehearsed testimonial, the film brings viewers directly into the lives of the employees—showing their excitement, their challenges, and the confidence that comes from having a job that values them.
It’s a human-first approach to storytelling that makes the audience feel something, and that’s what creates lasting change.
