http://www.parisaazadi.com

My name is Parisa, and I’m a freelance photojournalist currently based in Vancouver. I specialize in reportage and travel photography, documenting cultures, relief efforts and development work of NGO’s worldwide. To view my most recent work, please go to my website at www.parisaazadi.com

In June 2010, I will travel to Uganda to photograph the work of Amagezi Gemaanyi Youth Association (AGYA). AGYA operates a community centre committed to creating a sustainable learning environment where youth can develop leadership skills and express themselves creatively.  AGYA also provides girls with mentors, educational facilities and resources that will allow them to be successful female leaders in their communities.

My goal is to create honest and straight-forward images that tell the stories of the youth in AGYA. I will work closely with the community for 6 months, documenting their day to day lives, their customs, cultures and difficulties. In this age of mass media, there is little room left for investigative photojournalism and consumers are often bombarded with images of Africa intended to shock. My objective is to delve deeper and to tell stories that are multi-layered and multi-faceted. It is important for me to gain their trust and tell their stories from their point of view.

In order for this project to get under way, I need to raise $3000, which will cover travel expenses and equipment. The equipment I currently have will not withstand the conditons I will be in. With your help of your generous donation I will be able to complete a series that will go on exhibit in venues throughout Canada and U.S. It is my hope that this visual documentation will offer a fresh voice, by giving insight into a different side of communities living in Uganda’s urban slums. I want to  encourage global media outlets to publish complete bodies of work and to tell new stories or tell old stories from new angles.

To make this project successful, I need your support to ensure I have the best equipment possible. If you are interested in supporting my project, please click on the PayPal link to make a secure donation. You can make a donation in any amount. No donation is too small to contribute to this project. If you have any questions about my project or about donating, I am available by telephone at (604) 836-4667 or e-mail parisaphotography@gmail.com

Thank you in advance for your consideration and support.

-Parisa