Their Eyes, Their Story
In Nepal, the caste system still has a strong place in society. Unfortunately, that means that some have been marked as supposed “untouchables.” Regardless of their financial situation, they are seen as dirty or plagued by their karmic history by members of their community. This puts the young individuals in this Dyola or, low caste, in a predicament in which they are unable to progress in their lives. That is why there are community centers in Nepal that help children in this harsh social position have some form of education along with a safe place to help them avoid negative or dangerous situations at home and on the streets.
One of these amazing charitable centers is called The Happy Kids’ Center in Bhaktapur, Nepal. I have the pleasure of working with one of the main coordinators of this center. Her name is Nicole Heker and she has asked me to teach a photography class at her community center in Nepal. Not only would this be a great class for the kids but it will be an amazing way for them to document their own lives through art and expression.
There are times that individuals from outside of these communities pass through and attempt to tell their story, however, coming from a good place in their hearts, aren't able to truly capture the full extent of their situation. This will be an opportunity for the kids to tell their own story. This project will give the kids the ability to document what they want to share with the world along with the platform and support to do so. This class will equip the children with the tools and skills necessary to enjoy photography. Most importantly though, for the first time in their lives, they will have control and authorship over how they are being represented to the international community.
This is a list of what the donations will be used for...
3 or more Fujifilm X100 series cameras - 2,500 USD
1 TB External Hard Drive - 120 USD
6 Memory Cards for the cameras - 180 USD
3 Extra Batteries for the cameras - 240 USD
3 or more UV Filters to protect the lenses - 60+ USD
Remaining 400 USD will go toward any other element that will be added as the project continues, such as Adobe lightroom/photoshop, tripods, and disposable cameras and possible fujifilm instax instant film for the younger children to experience photography.
*All additional donations will help provide the center with the means to have extra cameras and other photography gear, and would also go into additional computers/laptops for the center to allow the children to use.
-------All photos used on this campaign page were taken by the children at this center prior using volunteers' cameras and provided by Nicole Heker-----
