ZAHUI Marc Désiré, born on March 6, 1997, in Abidjan (Côte d'Ivoire), is a computer scientist by training, who developed an early passion for visual and plastic arts. His journey with photography began in 2017 when his sister invited him to visit an exhibition by her friend, Ivorian photographer Ly Lagazelle. It was at this moment that he began to perceive photography differently. Through self-training and participation in masterclasses, his photographic universe, characterised by Afrofuturistic and minimalist aesthetics, explores conceptual and portrait photography through contrasts of colours and black-and-white, always aiming to convey a message to society.
The Bad Loving
Love remains the most authentic feeling that can exist in this world. Whether shared within a community or between two individuals, it remains beautiful. Love can also be painful when misunderstood. When used to manipulate or with malice, love can quickly turn into a source of hatred and contempt towards others. The love between two human beings can be beautiful but can also become toxic. Imagine what a world without love would be like?
KOUAME Kossua Bini Mariette is an ivorian artist. She is passionate and versatile, interested in different forms of Art : Photography, Music, Writing, Audiovisual Production. Kossua's primary objective is to encourage questioning and introspection; she also wants to participate in the democratization of art. Since 2022, she has managed “Nich”, a media 100% focused on art with the aim of promoting artists from all disciplines. She is also the winner of the 2024 BJKD art prize for young artist of the year.
Renaissance
Renaissance is about turning the back to bad things and facing the light, the sun. It’s about feeding yourself, watering yourself again, to let go of the dead leaves and be born again.
A Visual Artist with Documentary photography at the centre of her practice Maroussia is fuelled by a fascination for social divisions, human complexities and inequalities. Her work focuses on archiving and presenting an alternative vision of humanity, seeking out, moving, at times unsettling, perspective-shifting images of life and the living. Discovering through her journey and photographs new dimensions of the physical and human world: the peculiar, the funny, the lovely and the terrifying.
Cocoa Dreams
Born from the desire to immortalise the dreams, the history and the faces of the young anonymous men from the cocoa community of Armanikro; mirrors of a continent at the crossroads and reflections of hopes and will. This project aims to explore, through their dreams, their desires and their frustrations, the life and constraints of these young men which are linked to their community, their environment and the opportunities that exist for them.
I am an Angolan documentary and street photographer committed to authentically capturing and narrating the diverse stories that unfold across Africa. In a field where African women photographers are highly underrepresented, my lens serves as a medium to unveil the raw beauty, resilience, and vibrant cultures that define the African experience. Rooted in a deep appreciation for storytelling, my work transcends the surface to reveal the authentic narratives of the people and places I encounter. Driven by a desire to challenge stereotypes and amplify voices often unheard, my photographic approach is grounded in respect, empathy, and a commitment to ethical storytelling. Through my lens, I aim to foster a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted narratives that exist within the vast and diverse.
Landscapes of Africa
My collection presents a vivid portrayal of Angola through five captivating photographs. Each image transports viewers to different corners of the country, from the busiest beach in Luanda, to the serene Namibe desert in the southernmost part of the country. This collection of images is my personal record of adventure, it’s an expression of gratitude and a celebration of beauty found within the heart of Angola. In sharing this visual journey, I extend an ode to the very land that birthed me, allowing me to create moments of beauty within it. It’s my hope that through these images, others can catch a glimpse of the profound beauty and rich experiences that unfold when we connect with the world right around us.
Born in 1990 in Saint-Louis, Senegal, Massow Ka, also known as El Junio, is a self-taught photographer and documentary filmmaker. His work explores ecological, social, cultural, and memorial issues related to national policy. Using photography and documentary film, he captures stories reflecting local and universal problems, marked by attention to detail and natural light. Exhibiting since 2016, he has participated in various international biennales and festivals. In 2023, his series "Gare Yi'' was presented at the Museum of Photography in Saint-Louis. In 2024, his project "Or Blanc" will be showcased at the Africa Foto Fair in Abidjan. His award-winning documentary "Yaram'' highlights the challenges of climate migrants.
White Gold of Gandiol
(Video Installation)
This series of photographs documents the work of women salt collectors in Gandiol over three years. It explores the relationship between humans and the environment, highlighting the long-exploited salt marshes. Through aerial images captured by drones, the beauty and scale of their work are revealed while respecting their privacy. The project invites reflection on the impact of human activity on these natural landscapes and the working conditions of the women, while paying tribute to a community in harmony with its environment.
Matthew’s work blends reality and fiction, it is not a clear account of events but rather a story that you might recount to your friend: full of emotion, exaggerations, and embellishments and all the more beautiful for it. He spent the first 18 years of his life living in Afghanistan, Kenya, India, and Thailand, so it is no wonder that his themes often reflect the topical animals and vegetation that he was surrounded by during his formative years.
The Life of Birds
This series is influenced by both 19th-century natural history illustrations and old master painters; including the rules of composition from Rubens, chiaroscuro from Caravaggio, and the feeling of lush vegetation from Rousseau. The viewer interprets the birds' arrangement and expressions while projecting their own emotions, personality, or life experiences onto the scene that unfolds before them. Each image is meticulously and manually constructed using multiple elements that are individually photographed and carefully composed.
Mohamed Aly Diabaté is an Ivorian filmmaker and photojournalist with a master's degree in communication and audiovisual production. He spent five years working on humanitarian projects with the United Nations Migration Agency, focusing on stories of individuals driving social, educational, and cultural change in West and East Africa. Diabaté tackles critical themes such as clandestine migration, the rights and dignity of women and children, and the promotion of sports in Africa. In addition to his creative work, he is actively involved in educational initiatives. Through photography and filmmaking, he educates and raises awareness among youth about crucial issues in contemporary society, contributing to positive and sustainable change.
Explore the passion for football in Africa through a captivating series of photographs taken during CAN 2023 in Ivory Coast. Each image bears witness to the intensity and palpable emotion felt in stadiums, where football transcends the simple game to become a true cultural phenomenon. The beaming faces and celebratory gestures illustrate a deep national unity and community connection around this beloved sport. These shots capture not only the action on the pitch, but also the essence of the passion shared by millions of fans across the continent. Through this exhibition, discover how football in Africa goes beyond entertainment to become a vibrant expression of pride, tradition and collective identity.
Mohamed Mahdy (b. 1996, Egypt) is a visual storyteller from Alexandria, Egypt, focusing on hidden communities and cultural issues. Collaborating with his subjects, he creates impactful, collective narratives. He graduated from Pharos University in Alexandria with a degree in Arts and Design. Mahdy has been recognized by The New York Times, The Guardian, and Magnum Foundation. He has exhibited worldwide, including at the Hamburger Bahnhof in Berlin and Photoville in New York. Recent accolades include the World Press Photo 2023 award for his web documentary, "Here the doors don’t know me," and the photography prize from La Fondation des Treilles.
Here, The Doors Don't Know Me
In the neighbourhood of Al Max, a once-picturesque fishing community in Alexandria, Egypt, residents face the devastating news of their imminent displacement. Labelled "Little Venice" for its canal-side charm, their homes, and livelihoods are threatened by a government demolition plan. Years of uncertainty and a state-led media campaign have fueled resistance, but the demolitions continue. "Here, the doors don't know me" inspired by the fishers' plight, embarks on a project to capture their stories, collaborate with the community, and preserve their memories through photographs and heartfelt letters. As the sea-faring community loses their homes, their shared narratives become a testament to their resilience and unity.
Ivorian photographer Nadi Jessica was born in Issia and grew up in Abidjan. A graduate in visual communication, she discovered photography in 2017 thanks to a close acquaintance. Introverted by nature, photography became her means of communication with the world. She explores various types of photography such as documentary, conceptual, humanitarian, and self-portraiture to convey powerful messages and tell the stories of the people she meets.
“Tépényé (my place)"
"Tépényé (my place)" explores the quest of African women to find their place in society. Despite their education and potential, they face stereotypes and cultural barriers that limit their development. This series highlights their diversity, strength, and resilience, as well as the daily pressures and obstacles due to gender norms. "Tépényé" invites critical reflection on gender roles and power inequalities. Through evocative images, it challenges stereotypes, portraying African women as strong, intelligent individuals capable of leading their lives.
Neec is a visual artist exploring photography, performance, and art his work blends documentary with crafted compositions, capturing Nigerian life and cultural customs. driven by a desire to spark conversations, Neec aims to evoke emotions and encourage reflection. In 2018, he founded @aguleristories, an online platform sharing narratives of the Igbo community. recognized by his peers, he was shortlisted for the 2022 vantage point Sharjah photography prize and the art-x Lagos award. In 2023 and 2024, he was shortlisted for the cap prize and selected for the prestigious prince Claus mentorship programme. Nonso is a member of 1884 photo, a collective documenting African stories.
Heads of state
From the streets of the ghetto to state capitols and parliaments, "heads of state" presents portraits of leaders devoid of conscience, symbolising the emptiness of leadership. This series combines photography and AI to critique Nigeria’s and Africa’s political landscape. My collaborator, adorned in military gear and lavish accessories, represents the influence and affluence of power. beheading these figures signifies their lack of intellect and ethics. Animal heads replace human ones, highlighting their dehumanising actions. this work invites viewers to confront harsh truths about leadership, advocating for accountability and a shift toward genuine
Jean-Louis N’cho, a photographer from Côte d’Ivoire living in France, began his journey in 2016 to express his emotions. He showcases Africa's beauty and diverse cultures, using mobile phones for their accessibility. He believes creativity, not equipment, is crucial. His creativity earned him the Galaxy Grant from Prazzle in 2024. His work was exhibited at the AFRICAN FOTO FAIR and featured on Photovogue.com. His Instagram images are popular, reposted by major African art accounts, amplifying his impact.
THE ABIDJANAISE
During my journey to reconnect with my roots, I captured enchanting moments in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. Abidjan, a dynamic metropolis, blends various ethnicities and is rich in culinary, artistic, and musical diversity. Côte d'Ivoire hosts sixty ethnic groups, each with unique cultures, languages, and striking masks rich in spiritual and artistic significance. These masks, central to rituals and traditions, represent ancestral spirits and deities. My photographs highlight these masks within the daily life of Abidjan, showcasing the city's cultural tapestry.
OC George is a multidisciplinary artist, writer, and creative director. His work spans new media, drawing, and conceptual art. George’s work explores meaning as well as the sociocultural and political layers in Nigeria through the lenses of memory and identity. He shifts through mediums and spaces relaying dreamscapes and disjointed forms that mirror the human condition while simultaneously questioning it. In 2023, his conceptual project “Gently Open The World” was broadcast on Oroko Radio, Ghana, and a second edition on Refuge Worldwide, Berlin in 2024. OC George’s work has been featured in exhibitions and publications within and outside Africa.
BORROWED HISTORIES
By absorbing and recontextualizing various narratives “Borrowed Histories” looks at the complexities of the public space and how our individual private spaces bleed into it and into one another. Drawing from organic conversations and interactions with random strangers, I reimagine excerpts of the lives they have lived, inserting myself as an ephemeral spectator in these limited extracts of their histories. Candid photographs are digitally edited into collages in an attempt to create virtual repositories of memory - bending the boundaries of documentary and fictional storytelling, the collages delve into themes of state failure, class, and gender equality among others.
Oluyomi Akinnagbe uses documentary photography and other available mediums to unravel human stories and interpret them to defy the existential norms created by society. Born in Lagos, Nigeria. Oluyomis’ passion for impacting his community alludes to the role of assistant creative director at Kuta Arts Foundation. His work has been exhibited at the 13th edition of the Lagos Photo Festival by the African Artist Foundation. He also participated in the Lagos Photojournalism Festival workshop by the Institut Francais de Lagos.
HEATWAVES: A THREAT TO HUMAN LIVES
Severe heat waves in the Sudan-Sahelian region of northern Nigeria cause physical, ecological, and socio-economic impacts, including food shortages, health issues, and water scarcity. Five out of eleven states in the Sudan-Sahelian that fall within the desert-prone zone area in the northern part of Nigeria experience increasing dryness every year. It was recorded that these states have the highest heatwaves (higher temperatures with very low humidity). As a result, farmers are forced to adapt their daily activities, facing challenges such as walking long distances to get water, drinking unsafe water, and digging the ground to access water for plants. The lack of rain also affects the availability of fresh plants for animals to feed on.
Ruby began his foray into photography searching for a way to translate his experiences and channel his creative visions. Continuously experimenting with different techniques and visual presentations while honing his craft. He finds expression of his thoughts and subconscious through conceptual, aesthetic and vibrant photography where he explores themes of self expression, identity, the human journey, and personal relationships. With photography as a tool for transformative storytelling and positive change. He strives to use images to tell visually stimulating stories that broadens perspectives, challenges the status quo and creates room for healthier narratives.
First Three: A Visit From Time
Exploring the concept of what our African utopia means, contrasting past and future, the past to confront traumas from the past and allow self to heal and the future open oneself to endless possibilities that wait in front of growth- all of which hinges on our ability to lead communal lives. Here we will visually represent what fashion was, is and will be, while touching bases with our identity in existence to time in different multiverses. Where Future meets past self in recognition of the evolution of tech and fashion in Africa The visual story represents the best performing students in class being first, second and third position. A concept popularly known to Nigerian schools where these students are awarded and noticed for academic excellence. Here these students come in contact with their alternate selves through group photos and activities that eventually lead to a new awareness. One body, different timelines in a parallel universe.
Samar Baiomy is an Egyptian visual storyteller and lecturer at the Faculty of Art & Design at BUE in Cairo. She holds a PHD in Fine Arts and completed her master's degree in Video Art at ESAAIX, France. Her artistic practice focuses on documenting collective memories of places through mediums like storytelling photography, video art, installation, and virtual reality. Notable examples include her explorations of the El Max area and Mina Al-Basal factories.
Samar's projects have gained international recognition, with exhibitions across Egypt, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. She has received awards such as the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Photography Award and the Sheikh Saud Al-Thani Award for Illustrated Stories. Her solo exhibitions "Memory of a Place" and "The Dust of Time" have been showcased at prestigious venues like the French Institute in Alexandria and the Goethe Institute in Cairo.
Memory of El-Mex
When we miss people, we may go to the places that brought us together to retrieve a shared memory, but how can we remember the place when we lose it?
The project to preserve the memory of El-Mex in Alexandria is a heartfelt attempt to document the rich history and vibrant community of this place before it fades away. Spanning from 2017 to 2022, the project aims to capture the oral histories, personal narratives, and shared experiences of El-Mex's residents, recognizing that places hold a profound and intimate connection to the people who inhabit them. By archiving these memories, the project seeks to create a bridge between the past and the present, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for El-Mex's enduring significance within the community. This endeavour is a testament to the power of place to shape our lives and the importance of preserving the essence of a cherished location before it is lost.
Sara Younes, a visual storyteller, challenges the concept of limitations through her work. Holding a BA in Mass Media, she is a freelancer in Egypt and exhibits regionally. Her accolades include the 2021 Egyptian Journalists' Encouragement Award and a 2022 grant from the Arab Documentary Photography Program for her project about the parkour community in Alexandria. Shortlisted as one of three finalists for the 2024 Premi Mediterrani Albert Camus Incipiens, Sara is also part of the African Photojournalism Database. Her work is published in the 'Portrait of Humanity' book.
At a Peter Pan Moment
Danny was eight when he moved to Alexandria from Lebanon with his family. He felt a huge weight on his shoulders until he discovered Parkour, and he learned how to fly. Now fifteen, through parkour and the community of street athletes he became friends with, he discovered the city and himself in a new way. The project follows Danny's journey with the parkour community in Alexandria and through the parkour lens rethinks the definition of limitations and the concepts of overcoming obstacles.
Sarah Palmer is a photographer based in Toronto, Canada. Her work lives between the realms of journalism and fine art, questioning the conventional limits of each world. She explores pop culture and current events with a focus on the subcultures that these gatherings draw in. She is deeply interested in how we navigate ourselves in the world, with recent work exploring the climate crisis and the impact we have on each other and the environment.
Wish You Were Here
Wish You Were Here explores vacation culture amidst the climate crisis, and how it plays, often unconsciously, into what’s known as last-chance tourism. Last-chance tourism is a trend whereby travellers visit destinations that are being irreparably changed by the climate crisis and may eventually vanish altogether. In exploring this topic, Palmer examines the absurdity that capitalist and colonialist structures (like tourism) imbue into our natural environments.
These images are shot on film, with multiple exposures created in-camera (not in photoshop). The cognitive dissonance between the constructed realities of leisure time and the climate crisis is intentional in Palmer’s visual style that creates juxtaposed, dream-like, hauntological records that evoke nostalgia, and longing, while the accompanying captions and deeper context present the dark truth being observed.
Seun Adeniyi is a freelance documentary photographer from Nigeria focusing on social impact storytelling. With a sociolinguistic background, he captures cultural and humanitarian narratives, exploring social, political, and cultural values. Seun's work highlights societal issues and has been featured on platforms like Getty Images, LagosPhotoFestival, and KAFART. He has worked with AFP and Greenville LNG and is a member of the African Photojournalism Database. His certifications include Thomson Foundation, Canon Miraisha, and Storymi Academy. Seun's transformative photography has been exhibited globally, including at France Médias Monde in Paris.
Harmony in Diversity Showcasing the Beauty of Global Cultures
Reflecting on my experiences at cultural festivals, their uniqueness becomes clear. These festivals beautifully showcase global cultures, blending beauty, colour, and fashion to express each culture's language and heritage. Every detail tells a captivating story, revealing the rich and vibrant identity of each culture. By appreciating this diversity, we gain a deeper understanding of humanity and the beauty in our differences. These celebrations remind us of the intricate connections between people and traditions, highlighting how each culture adds to the collective human experience and enriches our world.
Shirin Abedi grew up in Hannover, Germany. She was born in Iran in 1996 and migrated with her family at the age of seven. Living between both worlds and grappling with the ever-present sensation of not quite fitting in, her lifelong struggles became the essence of her work: emancipation, pain, shame, and love. Her biggest fascination is life itself, subtlety, everyday heroes, and their battles. Guided by curiosity and care, Shirin is currently working on her personal long term-projects about the social change in Iran, the long term effects of school bullying in Germany, and western hypocrisy and museums. Shirin Abedi is the 2023 recipient of the Inge Morath Award of the Magnum Foundation.
May I Have This Dance?
What did I want from life apart from dance? I was like an empty mass, and since I discovered and understood dance, I have found an identity for myself.” - Reyhaneh, a dancer from Tehran, Iran.
The National Ballet Company was founded in Tehran in 1958. Until the revolution, it produced over 50 performances. According to Islamic law, immorality and fornication are the result of sensual dance, which is why all dance institutions were dissolved in 1979 and dance was banned from the Iranian public. Nevertheless, Iranians continue to dance. This story is about the social change in Iran.
Freelance photographer based in Madrid. She combines editorial work with her personal projects that delve into the indissoluble relationship bet-ween collective history and individual memory, showing the light and shadows that events and the pas- sage of time leave on people, places, things and words. Since 2000 she has regularly published in national and international magazines. In the international arena his photos have appeared in media such as: Monocle, Libération, La Repubblica, Die Zeit, The European, Tages Anzeiger, Timeout, Stern, Point de Vue, Financial Times, NY Times, Life & Style (MX), De Luxe (NL), GQ Taiwan, GQ Italia, GQ Mexico, Vogue NL, Courrier JP, Revista Sábado PT, Esquire Singapore, Esquire Malasia o Marie Claire Australia. She also collaborates regularly with Spanish magazines. Since 2008, she is a regular contributor at the maga-zine Vanity Fair and El País Semanal, where she has published more than 150 reports and more than 20 covers. Sofía has exhibited her work in Spain, Mexico, Belgium and Madagascar. Her main books include Ellos y nosotros (Blume. 2006) – a portrait of the younger generation that fought in the Spanish Civil War – and Who deserves to die? (PHREE. 2018) – a plea against the death penalty. Since 2022 she has been part of the women’s photography platform comoserfotografa.com She has been part of the PhotoEspaña Festival in PHE08, PHE18, PHE21 and PHE23. She also works as a tea-cher in several art schools and universities as well as for the Prado Museum Foundation. In addition to private collections, she has worked in the Photography Collection of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando. In 2023 she was awarded the 14th Piedad Isla National Prize.
FAIRGROUND ATTRACTIONS, 2024
Summer fairs serve as the chosen setting to capture a portrait of teenagers in Spain. It’s a vision of an age when everything is waiting to be discovered and experienced. Teenagers go partying without adult supervision for the first time. And there they find a new family: their friends. Everything is thrilling; —living without oversight, gathering, sneaking sips, gazing, drinking, smoking, and kissing. And then there is the night that fills everything, despite the bright attempts of bulbs and neon lights trying to delay it. The light fades, and the adventure grows. Teenagers step into the darkness they’ve always been protected from. It’s a portrait of those fleeting hours that mark the beginning of life.
Soumyabrata Roy is a documentary photographer and videographer based in Tehatta, India. He holds a Diploma in Photography from Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira, Belur Math (University of Calcutta), where he won a silver medal and a diploma with a grade of ‘A’. He is a Freelance Photojournalist at NurPhoto Agency and a member of Diversify Photo. His work has been exhibited internationally and published in prestigious magazines such as TIME Magazine, The New York Times, Rolling Stone, BBC, The Guardian, Forbes, Washington Post, Vox, People Magazine, The Sun, Nature, Thomson Reuters Foundation News, CNN, Gates Foundation, VICE, The Wall Street Journal, Aljazeera.
"Shiver Gajan"
"Shiver Gajan" or "Hajra Puja" is a special folk festival celebrated in West Bengal, India, bidding goodbye to the passing year and praying for prosperous rains and better harvest in the coming year. It is associated with the worship of Lord Shiva and involves various rituals. Monks in some places perform extreme acts such as walking on sharp weapons, lying on a nail bed, or jumping into the Jalangi River without safety at dark midnight. On the last day of Gajan, different villages perform life-centred plays to convey important messages about life or recreate past situations attacked by fierce animals
Sujata Setia, Indian-born British photographer completed her master's in International Relations from King’s College London in 2009.Sujata has a background in journalism that informs her research-based, socially engaged practice.She combines traditional artistic interventions and photography to call attention to the boundaries of cultural imperialism, where the subaltern histories remain exiled.
A Thousand Cuts
Globally, less than 10% of DA crimes get reported. Rest thrive under the veil of stigma. Which not only perpetuates trans-generational trauma but also affects matters of policy formulation and resource allocation for support. This series created in collaboration with Shewise, UK and survivors of abuse, brings these narratives into public discourse. The continuous act of chipping at the soul of the abused, is expressed by making cuts on the portrait with a knife. The paper used to print the portrait is a thin A4 sheet, depicting the fragility of her existence.
Born in Zimbabwe and based in South Africa, a commercial and fine art photographer whose contemporary style is representative of the global movement hailed as ‘new African photography’. He’s driven by creating a more diverse picture and inspired by the stories and faces of the African metropolis. His striking visuals, often shot from new and unexpected angles make his subjects heroes. There’s a richness of tone in his work and He is a humble student of the medium through shooting in various genres of photography while carving out a style of his own.
If Covid was a Colour
Instead of seeing Covid-19 as a blanket of dread and grief, It is used as the invisible backdrop. When it is on the surface, the pandemic is given bold imagery. He utilises its symbolism beyond the clinical, and transforms the symbols into icons that represent this moment in a whimsical way. The series explores the physical and conceptual nature of the black body, and its relationship to photographic agency with inventive explorations of belonging and vulnerability. The arch of the body may suggest movement and the composure may signify confidence, while the mosaic of masks or gloves draping the body enhances the sense of performance and sculpture.
Taiwo Aina is a freelance visual storyteller who specializes in documenting real-life experiences. She is based in Lagos, Nigeria and her work often focuses on societal issues that affect people's daily lives, with particular interest in women, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. Her work has been published in various publications, including New York Times, CNN, Guardian UK, Anabelle Magazine, the Africa Report, and Reuters.
Game of Confidence
Game of Confidence is a visual project that explores female boxing. This project highlights the lives of 6 female boxers and the importance of boxing to them.Exploring themes like gender equality, women empowerment, Taiwo’s goal is to showcase the beauty and importance of this sport, how it's impacting the individual lives of a girl child, document personal experiences relating to everyday activity, and show the struggles of what it takes to be a professional boxer in a big city like Lagos.
Raised in the vibrant township of Soweto, South Africa, Thulani Kubeka is a beacon of creative ingenuity and artistic flair. Recognized for his exceptional photography, he has left a significant mark on the visual arts scene. In 2022, he was honoured as an emerging creative at Design Indaba, highlighting his innovative approach. His work, characterised by meticulous attention to detail, has been featured in exhibitions across South Africa and internationally. Thulani's photographs transcend language, resonating deeply with viewers and pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling.
"Kolorblind: A Monochromatic Narrative of Punk Expression in Soweto"
In my photographic series, "Kolorblind," I delve into the vibrant world of a Soweto punk band, exploring the stark contrast between the societal lens and the intricate tapestry of their lives. These individuals challenge conformity through punk music and distinctive style, yet encounter prejudice for their unorthodox expression. Through black and white photography, I illuminate their nuanced existence, urging viewers to question surface judgments and appreciate their diverse experiences. "Kolorblind" captures moments of resilience, defiance, and camaraderie, showcasing the transformative power of music, identity, and culture to transcend barriers and foster understanding.
Tianjun Li (b. 1999, China), also known as Timjune, is a Helsinki-based interdisciplinary artist and musician with a primary focus on photography, sound, and performance. Timjune's artistic practice encompasses the interplay of various photographic subjects, sonic elements, and vocal experiments. His works explore alternative narratives of the human-nature relationship within contemporary phenomena. Through reconstructing photography and sound, he re-imagines surreal, fable-like utopias rooted in harsh realities, illuminating parallel trajectories between individuals and the ever-changing natural environment in the Anthropocene era.
La Luna y el Hacedor, 2020
The series was born from a period of quarantine amidst the Covid-19 outbreak. When I revisited the pictures from my trip in New Zealand, China, and Cambodia before the pandemic, with double-exposure and re-composition, I reimagined a dreamlike world that pays tribute to the boundless nature that shape and inspire us, and the limitless imagination of humanity, transcending physical constraints of freedom. The epidemic is symbolised as a fog, evoking a sense of mystery and uncertainty, as I pose the question, "What's in the fog?"
Tim Gassauer (*1997 in Nordhausen) lives and works in Berlin. He is currently studying at the »Ostkreuzschulefür Fotografie« in the graduating class of Göran Gnaudschun. Before that, he studied communication and political science at the »Freie Universität« in Berlin. His bachelor thesis focused on the photographic representation of suffering in the context of constructions of »the other«. In his photographic work, he pursues an approach on the borderline between documentary and artistic photography and increasingly deals with social and political issues. His focus is on forms of social memory, questions of belonging, and the use and design of social spaces. The intensive research for political, social and historical traces takes a central part in his process.
Lüderitz
Lüderitz is German Heimat. Lüderitz was to become a new Heimat for the Germans. Lüderitz left its Heimat behind and took the Heimat of other people. The work »Lüderitz« is set in two places that are around 12,000 kilometres apart and yet share the same name: Lüderitz in northern Saxony-Anhalt and Lüderitz in southwestern Namibia. The former is the origin of the von Lüderitz family, from which the merchant Adolf Lüderitz later emerged. In 1883, he laid the foundation for the consequential colonisation of what is now Namibia by fraudulently acquiring land. The starting point was a place named after him: Lüderitz. From then on, this was to be the new home for German settlers who followed the colonial promises of money and habitat to what was then known as »German South West Africa«. Until 1915, the country was under the violent "protection" of the German Reich and was at the same time the site of rich diamond deposits and the scene of the first genocide in the 20th century.
TOGOLA MOHAMED Is a passionate photographer born in Abobo, Abidjan. He discovered photography in 2022 through the AFRICA FOTO FAIR exhibition. It was through Smartphone photography workshops organised by Aida Muluneh that he learned the basics of photography and has since decided to make it his career. Togola opts for photojournalism, he is more focused on white and black photography through which he has documented the daily lives of the inhabitants of Abobo since 2023. His work is distinguished by skillful use of natural light and careful attention to detail, allowing him to capture authentic and moving images.
Fighter in the ring and in life
The series is part of an ambitious project that I started since my first steps in photography. The project that I named “Another view on Abobo” highlights my commune ABOBO. Here, I recount the courage and resilience of SIDIBE SAMOU, a boxing enthusiast. In 2018 and 2020, he was lightweight champion, vice super lightweight champion in 2021 and 2022 and best boxer in the championship. SAMOU is determined to pursue his dream until he reaches the next level. There are so many fascinating stories that are told to me when I meet people in this town and I decide to tell them through my lens.
Wesaam Al-Badry is an investigative journalist and interdisciplinary artist focusing on identity, migration, and social issues in the U.S., Middle East, and North African diaspora. Born in Nasiriyah, Iraq, he fled to Saudi Arabia as a child during the Gulf War and later relocated to Lincoln, Nebraska. Al-Badry has contributed to CNN and Al-Jazeera America, with work featured in major outlets like The New York Times and Rolling Stone. He has received multiple fellowships and awards, and his art has been exhibited globally, including at the de Young Museum and Cooper Hewitt. He holds a master's in New Media journalism from UC Berkeley and a BFA from the San Francisco Art Institute. Al-Badry is represented by Jenkins Johnson Gallery and others.
Al Kouture
Al Kouture," Wesaam Al-Badry deftly interrogates the intersections of Western consumerism and Muslim cultural identity through a syncretic lens, revealing deep tensions between Occidental and Arab-Muslim consumer aesthetics. His critical inquiry asks whether the niqab, a symbol loaded with cultural and political meaning, could gain acceptance if introduced by elite luxury fashion houses. Al-Badry's work echoes Edward Said’s reflections on the friction between modernization and tradition, highlighting the paradox of a global Muslim fashion industry set to reach $320 billion while navigating its complex relationship with Western capitalism.
Through his transformation of iconic vintage silk scarves from brands like Hermes and Gucci into niqabs, Al-Badry stages a poignant critique of the political economy of fabric. These reimagined niqabs speak to the commodification of identity and the paradoxes of cultural assimilation in an increasingly polarized world. His use of luxury textiles becomes a powerful statement on how fashion, far from neutral, acts as a mediator of cultural perceptions, gender politics, and the often uneasy entanglement of tradition with capitalist desires. Al-Badry’s work thus positions fashion as both an aesthetic and socio-political tool, raising urgent questions about the commodification of cultural symbols and the way global markets shape the way we view women and identity.
Yannis Davy Guibinga, a 28-year-old photographer from Libreville, Gabon, based in Montreal, Canada, explores the diverse identities and cultures of Africa and its diaspora. His work documents a new generation of Africans embracing their multifaceted identities amid globalisation and Western cultural influences. Through narrative and refined aesthetics, Guibinga’s photography evokes complex emotional responses. He represents a leading voice in contemporary African photography, with his work showcased internationally, including Art Basel and the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.
TALES FROM SHIRA ISLAND
"TALES FROM SHIRA ISLAND" is a collection by Yannis Davy Guibinga, exploring the fictional Shira Island where mythological figures from diverse African cultures coexist. From Yoruba mythology, fictional mythology and biblical symbolism, the series showcases the photographer’s interest in storytelling and weaves diverse mythologies into a cohesive visual tapestry, celebrating African cultural heritage and merging imagination with tradition.
Born in Addis Ababa in 1974, Aïda graduated with a degree from the Communication Department with a major in Film from Howard University in Washington D.C. Her photography can be found in several publications as well as the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art, the Hood Museum, the The RISD Museum of Art and the Museum of Biblical Art in the United States. She is the 2007 recipient of the European Union Prize in the Rencontres Africaines de la Photographie, in Bamako, Mali, the 2010 winner of the CRAF International Award of Photography in Spilimbergo, Italy, and a 2018 CatchLight Fellow in San Francisco, USA. In 2019, she also became the first black woman to co-curate the Nobel Peace Prize exhibition. The following year she returned as a commissioned artist for the prize. She has been a jury member on several photography competitions, most notably the Sony World Photography Awards 2017 and the World Press Photo Contest 2017. She has also been on various photography panel discussions, such as the African Union cultural summit, Art Basel, and Tedx/Johannesburg. In 2019, she also gave the renowned Sem Presser Lecture at the World Press Photo Festival in Amsterdam. A Canon Ambassador, Aida is the founder of the Addis Foto Fest (AFF), the first international photography festival in East Africa held since 2010. As an educator and cultural entrepreneur, she continues to develop projects with local and international institutions in Ethiopia and Côte d’Ivoire.
CRIMSON ECHO
The Crimson Echo is a reflection on the human toll of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), not only on the physical manifestations of the diseases but the implication they have on the psyche of those impacted. Muluneh embeds multiple layers of narrative into each image to create a powerful interpretation of the impact of NTDs on gender equity, mental health, mobility, and access to resources. Using bright colours and respect for tradition as her vehicle, Muluneh’s work is dismantling renderings of a bleak and impoverished Africa. In essence, utilising art as a tool to ask questions, show the unseen and provoke the onlooker to encounter the depths of our shared human emotions.
Ala Kheir, a Sudanese photographer, was born and raised in Sudan. His photography captures the essence of Khartoum, offering unique perspectives and stories about his surroundings.By combining documentary and artistic elements, Kheir sheds light on the everyday life in his homeland. His work delves into themes like memory, identity, and social issues, showcasing the diverse society of Sudan. Kheir’s photographs have been showcased in various exhibitions, both locally and internationally. Apart from his photography, Ala Kheir is actively engaged in initiatives that support and promote photography in Sudan.
IN THEIR PLACE
Sudan’s environment and population contribute to its high prevalence of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Ongoing conflict and underdevelopment have led to mass migration to Khartoum, the country’s NTD center. These diseases primarily affect the vulnerable in the city’s periphery, where few diagnostic and treatment centers exist, complicating early intervention. Poor living conditions worsen the situation.
Khartoum's outskirts, not recognized as slums, are rapidly expanding. Displaced individuals often settle in unsuitable areas, like former dump yards, creating neighborhoods that facilitate NTD spread.
Visits to Sudan's only leprosy treatment center emphasize the need for early interventions, but poverty remains a key factor in NTD proliferation. Improving living conditions is essential alongside medical solutions.
The Stables, a central industrial area, has become a significant resettlement community, housing families from the South Sudan border for over 20 years. Initially a dump yard, it now faces contamination issues, and many residents lack access to clean water.
John Moussa Kalapo, born in Bamako, Mali, honed his skills at the Center de Formation Photography (CFP) and Market Photo Workshop (MPW) in Johannesburg after receiving the Tierney Family Foundation Awards grant in 2015. Specialising in conceptual and documentary photography, he employs storytelling and photojournalism to spotlight societal issues. Kalapo collaborates with NGOs like Swiss-contact and Water-Aid, and with companies such as Safran-France. He is also pivotal in digitising and preserving the works of notable African photographers like Malick Sidibe. Currently, he focuses on the "Preserving the archives of Malian women's struggles" project, ensuring the historical legacy of Malian women is maintained.
The neglected diseases in Mali
Neglected tropical diseases do not spare Mali, especially in the Kita region, where I have documented several cases of onchocerciasis and elephantiasis in the villages of Sagabary, Boukarybaye-Bohan, and in Kita town. Patients suffering from these diseases and poverty who cannot afford treatment. People who are affected by elephantiasis are characterised by swelling of the limbs, most often the legs. Giving the affected person's lower limbs an elephant-legged appearance, that elephantiasis gets its name.
In addition, there is onchocerciasis, which affects many people in villages and renders most adults and elderly people blind due to a parasitic disease with skin and eye manifestations, transmitted to humans by the infecting bite of a small fly. So, I notice that neglected tropical diseases are infections that affect low-income populations. They mainly affect the poorest people, who live in remote rural areas, in slums or in conflict zones. In order to stop the neglected tropical diseases and worms Onchocerciasis and Elephantiasis the population asks for the involvement of the authorities and the whole society to make these diseases disappear.
Meseret Argaw, born in 1989 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, holds a degree in Textile Engineering. Her passion for photography began in 2011 when she won a camera in a writing competition. After graduation, she studied photography, videography, filmmaking, and editing at a Master Fine Art and Vocational Training Centre. Meseret has participated in workshops such as the Canon Student Development Programme (2021) and Addis Foto Fest (2020), and has exhibited her work in group shows including "In Quest For" (2015, 2017) and "Against Gravity" at the RAY Festival (2018). Her art explores identity, history, and dreams through everyday cultural materials. She is currently a recipient of the Daniele Tamagni Grant for a year-long program in photojournalism and documentary photography at the Market Photo Workshop in Johannesburg, South Africa
NEGLECT THE “NEGLECT”
This project examines the social, economic, and mental health effects of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) on women in rural communities. Through conceptual photography, it illustrates how NTDs trap women in cycles of poverty. Each image conveys the emotions of women affected by these diseases rather than focusing on specific NTDs. Themes include the struggle to complete even the simplest tasks, feelings of social isolation or exclusion, additional burdens imposed by the diseases, societal pressures, and the shattered dreams they hold onto.
Mustafa Saeed is a Somali artist based in Hargeisa, Somalia. His work combines different mediums including photography, graphics, and sound to explore socio-political issues including war, conflict and environment. He is a contributor to Everyday Africa and the founder of Fankeenna, a youth-led art platform that houses a studio, gallery and workspace for local artists. In 2015 he was chosen for the Arab Documentary Program ADPP, and his work has been exhibited at Addis Foto Fest (Addis Ababa), Lumières d’Afriques (Paris), and UNSEEN Photo Fair (Amsterdam). His work has also been widely published on news and media platforms, including the BBC.
WATER..WATER..LIFE
Intestinal worms, also known as parasitic worms, are among the most prevalent types of intestinal parasites. Cyclical processes continue to hinder the delivery of interventions to those who need them most. The lack of stability prevents aid from reaching the correct individuals, while insufficient access to water and basic necessities complicates disease prevention.
Through this series, I aim to symbolize feelings of neglect and the experience of being imprisoned by neglected tropical diseases (NTDs)
Omoregie Osakpolor is a documentary photographer, filmmaker, and extended reality (XR) creator based in Lagos, Nigeria. His work centers on social change and justice, exploring themes such as displacement, forced eviction, migration, aging, social welfare for the elderly, and security. In 2021, he was a finalist for the ArtX Prize. He contributed as a cinematographer to Inaccessible Cities, an Emmy-nominated website documentary project with AJ Contrast, which won the Gracie Award in 2022.
His multidisciplinary project, We Speak Their Names in Hushed Tones, received the Best Project award at the International Film Festival Amsterdam, IDFA DocLab Pitch Award in 2022. The VR animation documentary had its world premiere at the SXSW Film and TV Festival 2024 in Austin, Texas.
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TO THE EDGE AND OUT
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are infections prevalent in low-income countries with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare. Nigeria faces the highest burdens of onchocerciasis and schistosomiasis, along with significant cases of lymphatic filariasis and trachoma, affecting millions (Pan African Medical Journal). Despite efforts by the Nigerian government and organizations like the END Fund, NTDs remain underreported and underfunded compared to HIV/AIDS and malaria, particularly in rural areas.
This project will document the END Fund's work in Nigeria through photography, focusing on local workers, survivors, and the positive impact on affected communities.
Sarah Waiswa is an award-winning Ugandan-born, Kenya-based documentary and portrait photographer who explores the New African Identity. With a background in sociology and psychology, she transitioned from a corporate career to full-time photography, focusing on contemporary social issues in Africa. Her work has been showcased globally, most recently in the Africa Fashion exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum, and has been featured in outlets like the Washington Post, Bloomberg, and the New York Times. She has collaborated with major brands, including Christian Dior and Chloé.
In 2021, Sarah founded African Women in Photography, a non-profit supporting African women and non-binary photographers. In 2023, she debuted as a curator with Sisi Ni Hao, an exhibition at the Goethe-Institut in Nairobi that highlighted the work of 12 East African women and non-binary photographers.
Living with LF and After LF
This collection shares the journeys of two Kenyans, Eunice Atieno and Franco Mutunga, as they navigate life with lymphatic filariasis (LF). Eunice, a 48-year-old single mother, struggled with misdiagnoses, even undergoing chemotherapy before her LF was confirmed in 2019 through a mass drug administration in her neighborhood. Now unable to continue her previous business, she brews unlicensed alcohol to support her family, hiding her swollen leg in public and hoping for surgery to regain her mobility.
Franco, who contracted LF in 2018, endured years of superstition-fueled confusion before receiving corrective surgery in 2021. Now searching for steady work, Franco and his wife, Felister, are focused on building a future with their young child, grateful to have overcome the greater stresses of his illness.
Living with LF and After LF reflects the resilience of those affected by LF, capturing both their struggles and hopes for a renewed life.