Ethical Storytelling and Photography Fellowship 2023

Overview

Embrace the power of visuals and videos in storytelling! The Azadi Kenya-Ethical Storytelling project aims to create an ethical and accessible archive for survivors of trafficking, utilizing the power of visuals and videos in storytelling. Through a fellowship program, survivor leaders are being trained in photography, videography, and ethical storytelling techniques. The project also incorporates art therapy as a means to promote healing and recovery from trauma. By adopting a survivor-led storytelling approach, the project seeks to address the misrepresentation of survivor experiences and the lack of representation and inclusion in policy processes.

The project’s goals encompass promoting ethical storytelling, focusing on mental health and well- being, providing capacity development for survivor leaders, and raising awareness through policy and advocacy efforts. The archive will serve as a resource accessible to society at large, aiming to educate and inspire change within the anti-trafficking space. An essential aspect of the project lies in survivor leadership and advocacy, with a survivor leader spearheading the initiative. The project recognizes the unique authenticity of each survivor’s story and highlights the importance of their voices in shaping understanding and responses to trafficking: No one can tell your story with the same authenticity as you.

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Reciprocated

In “Reciprocated,” I present a poignant portrayal of the complex and heartbreaking reality surrounding human trafficking and modern slavery.

This powerful piece delves into the paradoxical nature of the issue, shedding light on the harsh truth that, despite awareness, there are individuals who willingly choose re-trafficking due to the overwhelming force of economic hardships.

Through a captivating interplay of colors, textures, and symbolism, I aim to convey the multifaceted aspects of this deeply troubling phenomenon. The fragmented mosaic represents the shattered lives and fragmented identities of those caught in the web of exploitation. Within this mosaic, one can discern the intricate patterns of resilience, vulnerability, and the struggle for survival.

The juxtaposition of contrasting elements reflects the dichotomy faced by victims as they grapple with the prospect of re-trafficking. The artwork provokes contemplation about the underlying reasons that drive this choice, bringing attention to the complex interplay of poverty, desperation, and societal pressures.

Unseen

“Unseen” is a compelling and courageous project that sheds light on the unspoken and haunting stories of sexual assault experienced by boys during their childhood and teenage years, often concealed beneath the veil of religion. In this thought-provoking exploration, the artist delves into the complex emotions and varied reactions survivors face throughout their lives, all while enduring the trauma alone, without adequate support.

The project confronts the societal norms and stereotypes associated with masculinity, urging us to reflect on how we instill social attitudes in boys while overlooking the imperative to protect them from abuse. The silence surrounding these atrocities is rooted in shame, and even the most vocal shy away from discussing the issue, perpetuating the cycle of secrecy.

Through a series of evocative images, “Unseen” embraces a singular poetic narrative, deriving its essence from the artist’s perspective and the palpable atmosphere that surrounds us. Each photograph serves as a window into the emotional landscapes of survivors and the struggles they face in breaking free from the chains of silence and stigma.

The project stands as a poignant call to action, compelling society to address this critical issue, support survivors, and collectively create a safe environment for every child. “Unseen” beckons us to acknowledge the existence of these painful stories and to offer compassion, understanding, and unwavering solidarity to those who have lived in the shadows for far too long.

What are we

We’ve been called a variety of things throughout our lives. Some of them good, others not so much. Even me and you, on an average day, you might be shocked at how many times we label things. Besides naming the objects around us or the day of the week, we create labels based on snap judgments about the people we encounter and ourselves.
In this ethical storytelling project, I engage in conversations with each participant, reflecting on what we feel defined as. This piece is a documentation of our conversations and seeks to redirect agency to each participant themselves and not others/society.

This project shows how labels mask a person’s humanity; a word masks the