Background 

To commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Campus Bio Medico, an institution encompassing a university and a hospital in Rome, the organisation set out to create a unique project that would celebrate its legacy, mission and future. The project, aimed to recognise its growth from 30 to 3000 students, reflects its ‘Science for People’ mission and supports the hospital’s transition into an IRCCS (a research and care institution). As the university and hospital separated in 2022 leadership aimed to reinforce collaboration and a shared sense of belonging while preserving core values.

Approach 

Campus Bio Medico chose to document its journey and culture through a collaborative documentary film Campus Stories. Unlike traditional productions this film was self-realised, involving no professional actors or crew. Instead the project was designed to reflect the authentic voices of the institution’s employees and students.

Nineteen staff and students were cast to reflect a diverse mix of age, gender and roles. A dozen students from various faculties (medicine, engineering, nutrition) conducted interviews to foster genuine connections. Under the direction of Andrea Pellizzer the interviews captured authentic stories of the people behind the institution’s life

“Campus Stories brought together 300 employees in a heartfelt documentary that celebrated shared values and garnered international acclaim”

Rather than following a set storyboard the filmmakers chose a storytelling approach. This decision allowed the cast to freely share their experiences, aspirations and challenges, creating a deeply personal and moving narrative. The overarching themes of passion for service and love for the world emerged organically from these stories, which were then woven together to create a powerful film.

The documentary was first presented internally as a Christmas gift to employees and was later launched through a social media campaign and roadshow across Italy. The film was also submitted to international film festivals.

Outcome

More than 300 colleagues were involved in the casting and production, representing a broad section of the employee base and fostering a strong sense of collaboration and belonging. The film resonated deeply with staff, many of whom were moved by the authentic human stories of their colleagues. The first screening evoked heartfelt responses, with employees recognising themselves and their shared values in the narratives.

The film garnered over 10,000 views across social media, internal screenings and film festivals. The roadshow brought the film to donors, alumni, patients and local communities, further strengthening ties with the institution’s stakeholders. Its stories have been used in training, new employee inductions, leadership workshops and values-based focus groups. These stories helped refresh the Purpose Charter by showcasing how core values are lived daily.

The film’s impact is further evidenced by the recognition it received on the global stage, garnering two Best Documentary awards in Asia and Europe and nominations in Hollywood and Northern Europe. This helped to elevate the institution’s visibility and cultural significance.