Digital Storytelling and Its Influence on Contemporary Cultural Expression

Abstract

In the digital age, storytelling has fundamentally transcended its traditional forms, evolving into Digital Storytelling (DS). This is a multimodal narrative style that combines personal narratives, multimedia, and digital platforms. This manuscript explores the profound connection between Digital Storytelling and contemporary cultural expression, highlighting its role in shaping, preserving, and disseminating cultural identities and narratives in an increasingly interconnected and globalised world. Utilizing theoretical lenses such as Media Ecology Theory and Cultural Identity Theory, the research examines how social media platforms (like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube) foster the development and distribution of cultural content. Case studies illustrate the practical impact of DS in areas like cultural preservation, social advocacy, and the empowerment of marginalized voices. While presenting vast opportunities for creative freedom and cross-cultural dialogue, the manuscript also delves into the ethical challenges and technological barriers that content creators and communities must navigate. Ultimately, DS is argued to be an indispensable tool in modern narrative building, actively contributing to the fluid, dynamic, and ever-evolving nature of contemporary culture.