Author: Xeko Previ

SayPro Feedback and Learning: Fostering Growth for Future Initiatives

Overview: The feedback session after the Cultural Cooking Video Competition will not only provide participants with constructive insights but also encourage learning and skill development. By focusing on both strengths and areas for improvement, SayPro aims to support participants in enhancing their content creation skills for future initiatives.

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Learning Focus:

1. Content Creation Skills:
   • Participants will learn how to refine their storytelling techniques, enhance video production quality, and improve their ability to communicate cultural significance effectively.
   • The feedback will provide actionable advice on how to elevate the visual, narrative, and technical aspects of future video content.
2. Collaboration and Communication:
   • Participants will gain insight into how teamwork and cross-team collaboration can enhance the planning and execution of video projects, making the content more engaging and culturally rich.
   • Emphasis will be placed on the importance of clear communication when explaining a recipe or telling a cultural story, ensuring the audience understands and connects with the content.
3. Continuous Improvement:
   • SayPro will encourage a mindset of continuous growth, where employees are motivated to learn from feedback and apply improvements in future challenges and projects.
   • This feedback-driven approach will help employees hone their creative skills, which will be valuable in future content creation tasks within SayPro.

By fostering an environment of learning and development, the feedback session will empower participants to enhance their content creation abilities, preparing them for future SayPro initiatives and beyond.

SayPro Feedback and Learning: Post-Competition

Overview: After the Cultural Cooking Video Competition, SayPro will offer constructive feedback to participants. This feedback will focus on both strengths and areas for improvement, helping participants reflect on their work and enhance their skills for future events.

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Feedback Structure:

1. Strengths:
   • Positive aspects of the video will be highlighted, such as creativity in presentation, strong storytelling, or effective use of SayPro branding.
   • Specific praise will be given to the areas that stood out and contributed to the overall success of the video.
2. Areas for Improvement:
   • Constructive suggestions will be offered to help participants improve their video quality, presentation, or storytelling in future competitions.
   • Recommendations may include tips on video lighting, camera angles, sound quality, or how to better convey cultural significance in the narrative.
3. General Insights:
   • Participants will also receive general feedback on how they can improve their cooking presentation or cultural explanation, even if the overall video was strong.
   • Any trends or common challenges observed in multiple videos will be shared as part of a learning opportunity for the group.

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Learning Opportunities:

• After receiving feedback, participants are encouraged to reflect on the suggestions and apply them to future video projects.
• SayPro will host a learning session or offer resources that focus on areas like storytelling techniques, video production skills, or cultural representation in media.

By providing targeted feedback, SayPro aims to help participants grow, learn from their experiences, and continuously improve their skills in future events.

SayPro Judging Evaluation Form: Cultural Cooking Video Competition

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Participant Name: ___________________________

Dish Name: ___________________________

Judging Panel: ___________________________

Date of Evaluation: ___________________________

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1. Creativity (25 points)

• Innovative Presentation: How unique and creative is the way the dish is presented in the video?
  Score (1-10): _______
• Cultural Insights: Does the video include unique or unexpected cultural elements or facts?
  Score (1-10): _______
• Creative Use of Supporting Elements: How well are background music, visuals, and text used to enhance the video?
  Score (1-5): _______

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2. Quality of Presentation (25 points)

• Video and Audio Quality: Is the video well-lit, clear, and of high resolution? Is the audio clear and easy to hear?
  Score (1-10): _______
• Clarity of Instructions: Are the instructions clear and easy to follow? Are they presented in a logical order?
  Score (1-10): _______
• Adherence to SayPro Branding: How well does the video incorporate SayPro branding (logo, colors, fonts, etc.)?
  Score (1-5): _______

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3. Storytelling (25 points)

• Engaging Narrative: Does the participant share a compelling story behind the dish? Is the story interesting and relevant to the audience?
  Score (1-10): _______
• Cultural Significance: How well does the participant explain the cultural or historical importance of the dish?
  Score (1-10): _______
• Personal Connection: How well does the participant connect the dish to their personal experience or heritage?
  Score (1-5): _______

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4. Cultural Significance of the Dish (25 points)

• Cultural Representation: How well does the dish reflect the culture it represents? Is the cultural context explained clearly?
  Score (1-10): _______
• Meaningful Context: Does the dish hold cultural value, and is its significance communicated effectively?
  Score (1-10): _______
• Connection to Participant: Does the participant make a meaningful connection between the dish and their personal life or heritage?
  Score (1-5): _______

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5. Overall Impression (Bonus Points)

• Engagement and Overall Appeal: How engaging and enjoyable was the overall video experience? Did the video leave a positive impression on you?
  Score (1-5): _______

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Total Score:

Creativity: _______
Quality of Presentation: _______
Storytelling: _______
Cultural Significance: _______
Bonus Points: _______

Final Total Score (out of 100): _______

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Comments and Feedback:

[Use this space to provide any additional comments or feedback for the participant.]

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Judge’s Name: ___________________________

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This form provides a structured way for the judging panel to assess each entry in terms of creativity, quality, cultural significance, and overall presentation. The final score will reflect a comprehensive evaluation based on these key aspects.

SayPro Video Guidelines Template

To help participants create engaging and high-quality content for the Cultural Cooking Video Competition, please follow this template for video production. These guidelines will ensure that your video is visually appealing, easy to follow, and aligns with SayPro’s standards.

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1. Video Length

• Target Length: 5-10 minutes
• Make sure the video is long enough to cover the cooking process and cultural story, but concise enough to keep the viewer’s attention.

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2. Video Structure

• Intro:
  • Briefly introduce yourself and the dish you’ll be preparing.
  • Mention the cultural significance of the dish.
  • Display the SayPro logo at the beginning to align with the branding guidelines.
• Cooking Process:
  • Show each step of the recipe clearly.
  • Use captions or on-screen text to reinforce key instructions (such as ingredient names and cooking times).
  • Focus on step-by-step clarity to help viewers replicate the dish.
• Cultural Storytelling:
  • Share the cultural context and personal significance of the dish.
  • Be engaging and sincere while telling the story behind the recipe.
• Outro:
  • Thank the viewers for watching.
  • Remind them of the competition details and encourage engagement.
  • End with the SayPro logo and any other branding elements.

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3. Lighting Tips

• Natural Light: Whenever possible, use natural light. Place your cooking setup near windows or well-lit areas to ensure good visibility.
• Artificial Lighting: If you’re filming indoors or at night, use soft, diffused lighting (such as ring lights or softbox lights) to avoid harsh shadows.
• Avoid Backlighting: Make sure the light source is in front of you, not behind you, to prevent the camera from compensating for the brightness and leaving you in the shadows.

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4. Camera Angles

• Main Shot: Focus the camera on you while explaining the cooking steps or telling your story. Ensure the shot is clear and stable.
• Overhead Shots: For cooking steps, use overhead shots to show the preparation of ingredients and cooking processes clearly.
• Close-Up Shots: Use close-up shots for key moments (like adding spices, stirring, or showcasing textures).
• Multiple Angles: If possible, switch between camera angles to maintain visual interest, showing both the dish preparation and your expressions during storytelling.

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5. Audio Instructions

• Clear Voiceover: Make sure your voice is clear and audible throughout the video. Use a microphone or ensure you are close enough to the camera for good sound quality.
• Background Music:
  • Use light, non-distracting background music to enhance the mood of the video.
  • Ensure the music volume is low enough that it doesn’t overpower your voice.
• No Background Noise: Try to minimize background noise (e.g., chatter, traffic, etc.) during filming. Choose a quiet location for shooting, or use noise-canceling microphones if available.

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6. Editing Tips

• Smooth Transitions: Use simple transitions (like cuts or fades) between scenes to keep the video fluid.
• Text Overlays: Include text overlays for important instructions (e.g., ingredient names, cooking times).
• Pacing: Keep the video well-paced, balancing the cooking process with the storytelling aspect. Don’t linger too long on any one step.
• Branding: Include SayPro’s logo and color scheme consistently throughout the video, including during transitions, text overlays, and in the intro/outro.

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7. Additional Tips for Engagement

• Be Enthusiastic: Engage with the audience through your facial expressions and energy. Passion for the dish and its cultural context will resonate with viewers.
• Clarity and Simplicity: Keep the instructions clear and simple. Avoid jargon or overly complex cooking terms that might confuse the audience.
• Personal Touch: Share your personal connection to the dish. Be authentic and connect with the audience on a personal level.

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Final Check: Before submitting, ensure your video:

• Follows SayPro branding guidelines.
• Has clear audio, stable camera shots, and good lighting.
• Clearly conveys the cultural significance of the dish and includes all necessary instructions.

We look forward to seeing your creative, engaging videos!

SayPro Recipe Submission Template

To ensure a smooth and organized submission process, please use the following template for submitting your recipe along with your video entry for the Cultural Cooking Video Competition.

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Dish Name:

• [Insert the name of your dish here]

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Ingredients:

• [List all ingredients used in the recipe. Include specific measurements, if applicable.]

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Instructions:

1. [Step 1: Describe the first step of the cooking process.]
2. [Step 2: Continue outlining the steps in the order they should be completed.]
3. [Step 3: Keep explaining each step clearly and concisely.]

(Continue the list as necessary)

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Cultural Context:

• Background: [Provide a brief history or story behind the dish. Is it a family recipe? A regional specialty?]
• Cultural Significance: [Explain the cultural importance of the dish. What does it represent in your culture? Are there any special occasions or traditions associated with it?]
• Personal Connection: [Share why this dish is personally meaningful to you. Does it hold memories of family, community, or other significant experiences?]

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Please make sure to submit your recipe alongside your video entry through the SayPro website by the competition deadline. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to the SayPro Advice Desk Officer (SCDR).

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This template will help ensure your recipe is presented clearly and provides all the necessary information for the judges to evaluate your entry thoroughly.

SayPro Judging Criteria: Branding Creativity

Overview:

In addition to evaluating creativity, quality, and cultural significance, SayPro’s panel of judges will award additional points for videos that incorporate SayPro branding in creative and thoughtful ways. This encourages participants to not only adhere to SayPro’s guidelines but also to enhance their videos with the brand’s identity while maintaining a personal and engaging touch.

Incorporating SayPro Branding Creatively:

1. Logo Usage:
   • Creative Placement: Instead of simply adding the SayPro logo in a static position, consider incorporating it into the video in a creative way—perhaps through transitions, subtle animations, or as part of a themed opening/closing sequence.
   • Strategic Visibility: Ensure that the logo is visible but not intrusive. It should complement the video’s content without overshadowing the focus on the dish and cultural narrative.
2. Color Scheme and Fonts:
   • Color Palette: Use SayPro’s official colors in text, backgrounds, or any visual elements that frame the video. Integrating these colors in a way that enhances the aesthetics of the dish or video flow adds to the creative effort.
   • Typography: Use SayPro’s approved fonts for any on-screen text or captions. Try different creative approaches, like using text animations, to make the video stand out while staying true to the brand guidelines.
3. Transitions and Graphics:
   • Brand-Aligned Visuals: Incorporate branded graphics, borders, or transitions that use SayPro’s visual style. These elements can be used to smooth transitions between scenes or emphasize key moments in the video.
   • Engagement: Creativity in these visual elements should add to the viewer’s experience, making the video not just a cooking tutorial but also a fun, brand-aligned journey.
4. Brand Messaging:
   • Taglines or Catchphrases: You can creatively include SayPro’s tagline or other brand messages within the video’s storytelling or as part of your cultural narrative. For example, incorporating SayPro’s motto in the intro or outro can give the video a cohesive and professional feel.
   • Subtle Integration: Integrating brand messaging should feel natural within the context of the video. Whether through visual elements or subtle audio cues, it’s important to maintain balance and avoid overuse.

Judging Criteria:

• Creativity in Branding: How well does the participant integrate SayPro’s branding elements (logo, colors, fonts, etc.) into the video? Is it done in a way that enhances the video while maintaining the focus on the cooking process and cultural narrative?
• Consistency with SayPro’s Identity: Does the branding align with SayPro’s professional yet engaging tone? The judges will look for how seamlessly branding is woven into the video without distracting from the core content.

By creatively incorporating SayPro branding into the video, participants have the opportunity to earn additional points while showcasing their ability to balance creativity with professionalism. We can’t wait to see how you bring the SayPro brand to life in your unique cultural cooking videos!

SayPro Judging Criteria: Cultural Cooking Video Competition

Overview:

SayPro’s panel of judges will evaluate the Cultural Cooking Video Competition entries based on a set of criteria that reflects both the quality of the video presentation and the depth of cultural insight. The judging process is designed to reward creativity, clarity, and the meaningful storytelling that accompanies each dish.

Judging Criteria:

1. Creativity:
   • Innovative Presentation: Judges will look for videos that creatively showcase the dish. This includes how the cooking process is presented (e.g., angles, timing, editing) and how participants make their videos engaging and visually appealing.
   • Unique Cultural Insights: Creativity also extends to the narrative aspect, with the judges looking for participants to share unique or unexpected stories about the dish or cultural practices.
   • Creative Use of Supporting Elements: Participants are encouraged to use background music, interesting facts, and other creative elements that enhance the video while aligning with SayPro’s branding guidelines.
2. Quality of Presentation:
   • Video and Audio Quality: The judges will evaluate the technical quality of the video. This includes factors like lighting, focus, sound clarity, and overall video resolution.
   • Clarity of Instructions: The video should be easy to follow, with clear step-by-step instructions. Judges will assess how well participants explain the cooking process and ensure the audience can replicate the dish if desired.
   • Adherence to SayPro’s Branding: The consistency of SayPro’s branding in the video, including logo use, colors, fonts, and overall design, will also be considered in the quality evaluation.
3. Storytelling:
   • Engaging Narrative: Judges will look for a strong, compelling story that not only explains the preparation of the dish but also highlights its cultural relevance and personal significance. How well does the participant connect with the audience through their narrative?
   • Cultural Significance: A critical aspect of the storytelling is how well participants explain the cultural or historical importance of the dish. Judges will assess how clearly the participant communicates the dish’s connection to their culture and heritage.
   • Personal Connection: The judges will also evaluate how participants share their personal relationship with the dish, whether it’s a family tradition, a regional specialty, or a meaningful memory.
4. Cultural Significance of the Dish:
   • Cultural Representation: Judges will consider how well the dish represents the culture from which it originates. Does the video provide insight into the cultural or regional significance of the ingredients, preparation, or traditions associated with the dish?
   • Meaningful Context: The dish should be more than just a recipe; it should have a story that resonates with the participant and reflects a genuine connection to their culture, family, or heritage.

Additional Information:

• Participants should ensure that their video aligns with SayPro’s branding guidelines and incorporates creative, high-quality presentation that enhances both the instructional and narrative aspects of the video.
• The judging panel will consider all aspects of the video, from technical quality to emotional and cultural depth, making this a holistic review of the content.

We look forward to celebrating the diverse cultural stories and culinary traditions through this exciting competition!

SayPro Collaboration and Support: Cross-Team Engagement

Overview:

SayPro encourages cross-team collaboration when it comes to planning dishes for the Cultural Cooking Video Competition. While each participant will submit their final video individually, working together to brainstorm, plan, and share ideas helps foster cross-team communication and promotes cultural exchange. This approach enables employees to learn from each other, contribute to a diverse range of cultural perspectives, and build stronger teamwork within SayPro.

Collaboration Guidelines:

1. Team-Based Planning:
   • Teams are encouraged to come together to discuss and plan the dishes that will be featured in the competition. This collaborative process can include sharing recipes, exploring cultural influences, or offering suggestions on how to improve the dish.
   • The planning phase can also involve deciding on key cultural elements to highlight in the story behind the dish, ensuring a rich and well-rounded cultural narrative.
2. Benefits of Collaboration:
   • Cultural Exchange: By collaborating across teams, participants can gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, cooking techniques, and traditions that they may not have been familiar with before.
   • Idea Sharing: Collaborating on the planning stage helps participants refine their ideas and broaden their perspectives, leading to more creative and well-thought-out video content.
   • Strengthening Communication: Working together across teams promotes effective communication skills, helping teams learn how to share ideas, delegate tasks, and support each other through the video creation process.
3. Final Video Submission:
   • While the final video must be submitted by a single participant, the planning process can involve multiple team members. This creates an opportunity for the individual submitting the video to integrate input and ideas from colleagues into their final presentation.
4. Judging Criteria:
   • Cultural and Creative Depth: The judging panel will look for videos that reflect rich cultural insights and creativity, which can be enhanced by the planning and collaboration process.
   • Team Engagement: Though the video is individual, judges will appreciate the influence of cross-team collaboration as reflected in the participant’s video presentation and cultural narrative.
5. Support Available:
   • SayPro supports team-based planning and encourages participants to share resources, ideas, and knowledge during the collaboration process. If there are any challenges or need for guidance, participants can reach out to the SayPro Advice Desk Officer (SCDR) for assistance.

Key Takeaways:

• Cross-team collaboration is encouraged during the planning phase of the video competition, even though each video will be submitted by one individual.
• Cultural exchange and idea sharing enhance creativity and help participants connect with diverse cultures.
• Teams can support each other in brainstorming and preparing dishes while fostering a sense of community within SayPro.

We look forward to seeing how your collaboration and cultural exchange inspire your final submissions!

SayPro Collaboration and Support Guidelines

Overview:

SayPro encourages collaboration among participants in the Cultural Cooking Video Competition, allowing employees to team up with colleagues to share their ideas, insights, and expertise. However, to maintain organization and ensure clear accountability, each video entry should be submitted under one participant’s name. This ensures that the submission process remains streamlined and that each entry is appropriately recognized.

Collaboration Guidelines:

1. Team Collaboration:
   • Participants are welcome to work together with colleagues to create their video content. This could include sharing tasks such as recipe preparation, filming, editing, or contributing to the cultural storytelling aspect of the video.
   • Collaborators may help with brainstorming ideas, providing feedback, or supporting the technical aspects, such as lighting and filming. The aim is to enhance the quality of the video through teamwork and diverse perspectives.
2. Submission Requirements:
   • Single Entry per Participant: While collaboration is encouraged, each participant should submit only one entry under their name. This will ensure that the submission process is clear and each video has a designated lead participant.
   • Acknowledging Collaborators: If a participant worked with others, they should acknowledge their collaborators in the video description or credits. This helps give credit to the team effort while ensuring that the official submission remains under one name.
3. Judging Criteria:
   • Collaboration: While each entry is judged individually, we recognize that collaboration can lead to enhanced creativity and skill. Judges will consider how effectively the participant incorporated their team’s ideas while maintaining a cohesive presentation.
   • Ownership: The main participant is expected to take responsibility for the content and ensure that the final video meets all submission guidelines.
4. Support Available:
   • SayPro provides resources and support for participants who wish to collaborate. If needed, participants can reach out to the SayPro Advice Desk Officer (SCDR) for assistance with technical issues, creative advice, or any other queries related to the video submission.

Key Takeaways:

• Collaboration is encouraged, but each video should be submitted under one participant’s name.
• Participants are encouraged to acknowledge collaborators in the video credits.
• SayPro is here to support teams and individuals in creating high-quality submissions.

We look forward to seeing how collaboration brings out the best in your cultural storytelling and cooking videos!

SayPro Video Quality and Presentation Guidelines: Branding Consistency

Overview:

As part of the Cultural Cooking Video Competition, it’s important that all videos submitted adhere to SayPro’s branding guidelines to ensure a consistent and professional presentation across all entries. These guidelines will help maintain the integrity of SayPro’s visual identity while allowing participants to showcase their culinary talents and cultural stories.

Submission Guidelines:

1. Adherence to SayPro Branding:
   • Logo: Ensure that the SayPro logo is included in the video, either as part of the opening or closing screen. The logo should be placed in a way that does not obstruct important content, like the dish being prepared.
   • Font and Text Style: Use SayPro-approved fonts for any on-screen text or captions. This includes titles, ingredient lists, or instructions. If SayPro fonts are unavailable, use clear, legible fonts that complement the brand’s professional look. Maintain consistency in text size, color, and style throughout the video.
   • Color Palette: Use SayPro’s official color palette for any text, borders, or backgrounds in the video. This ensures the video matches the overall look and feel of SayPro’s branding. If using backgrounds or overlays, ensure they align with the brand’s color scheme.
   • Watermark: Consider including a SayPro watermark on the video to reinforce brand identity. This should be subtle but visible in a corner of the video throughout the presentation.
2. Video Format and Quality:
   • Resolution: Ensure the video is in high definition (HD), ideally at 1080p or higher, to maintain a professional appearance.
   • Aspect Ratio: The video should follow a 16:9 aspect ratio for compatibility with most platforms and to maintain consistency with SayPro’s standard video format.
   • Intro/Outro: If possible, include a brief SayPro-branded intro and outro in your video. The intro could feature the SayPro logo, tagline, and event title, while the outro can thank viewers for watching and remind them of the competition details.
3. Visual and Audio Consistency:
   • Lighting and Camera Quality: As mentioned in the video quality guidelines, ensure the video is well-lit and clear, with crisp visuals and good audio. These technical aspects should be consistent across all submissions to maintain the professional appearance of the competition.
   • Background Music and Sound Effects: If you add background music or sound effects, make sure they are appropriate for the SayPro environment and do not overwhelm the instructions or explanations. The music should reflect SayPro’s tone—professional yet engaging.
   • Tone and Language: Maintain a friendly, professional tone throughout the video. While creativity is encouraged, be mindful that the content aligns with SayPro’s mission to inspire learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange.
4. Creativity with Brand Alignment:
   • While creativity is encouraged, ensure that any additional visuals, music, or elements (like transitions, overlays, etc.) do not clash with SayPro’s branding. Keep any creative additions within the framework of the professional and polished image that SayPro aims to project.
5. Judging Criteria:
   • Brand Consistency: How well does the video align with SayPro’s branding guidelines, including logo use, color palette, font style, and overall presentation?
   • Video Quality: How clear and professional is the video in terms of lighting, sound, and camera quality?
   • Clarity of Instructions: Are the steps easy to follow and well-explained, with clear on-screen text and visuals?
   • Creativity: How creatively does the participant incorporate background music, personal stories, or other creative elements while still adhering to SayPro’s branding?

Additional Information: For any clarification on the SayPro branding guidelines or help with your submission, please reach out to the SayPro Advice Desk Officer (SCDR). They can assist with ensuring that your video meets all branding requirements.

We are excited to see how you incorporate SayPro’s visual identity into your creative cooking videos and storytelling!