It all began in 2014 when I volunteered with The Humanity Exchange in Douala, Cameroon to introduce photography to underprivileged children at a youth center. Teaching, especially in a foreign language, was definitely challenging; however, what I lacked in teaching ability, I made up for in artistic creativity as I cataloged my adventures on camera.
My experience in Cameroon exposed me to a new world of photography and inspired me to explore other forms of photography, so much so that soon after my return to the U.S., I was eager to return to Cameroon – this time playing to my strengths and skill as a photographer. In 2015, I teamed up with Love Volunteers to create a photographic library of their projects and beneficiaries in Ghana, Senegal, Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, and Cameroon. As a collection of expressive and compelling images, the library complemented stories from former volunteers to be used in Love Volunteers’ promotional materials. They were so thrilled with my work that they have asked me to come back.
A brief moment inside a man's home in Dakar, Senegal. Love Volunteer project 2015.
I'm super excited to announce that in November this year, I'll be visiting Love Volunteers’ many projects in Peru, Argentina, Ecuador, and Honduras to document the work their volunteers are doing and create captivating portraits of the individuals and families who benefit from their programs. I'm so grateful to have the opportunity to share my skills with others and to be a part of something so wonderful.
A boy outside his home in Rwanda. Love Volunteer project 2015.
A woman sits on her couch in a refugee camp in Kenya. Love Volunteer project 2015.
As a volunteer, I’ll be responsible for my living expenses in each country for the next five weeks. The cost alone would be enough to give anyone pause about undertaking this adventure, so it goes without saying that this trip could not have been possible without the dozens of clients who scheduled shoots with me this year. To all my friends and clients, thank you for your continued support over the years from my initial trip to Cameroon in 2014 to my subsequent return trips.
I look forward to sharing my experiences with you!
A child and volunteer in Kenya. Love Volunteer Project 2015.