Cameras For Girls Expands to Tanzania
In a world where every photo tells a story, Cameras For Girls is embarking on an exciting journey to expand its horizons and bring the art of photography and storytelling to Tanzania. With the expansion of its programming, and the inaugural workshop set to take place this November, Cameras For Girls is not just teaching photography; it's empowering a new generation of storytellers.
The Girls learning in a Cameras For Girls workshop
Empowering Through The Lens
Cameras For Girls has always been about more than just photography; it's about women's empowerment. By introducing photography to young women, some of whom have never touched a camera before, we're teaching them the technical aspects of photography and how to manipulate their gifted cameras while instilling the confidence to share their unique perspectives with the world. With its rich cultural tapestry, Tanzania provides the perfect canvas for these budding journalists to explore and capture their worlds.
While they might come out of a journalism program, similar to the girls we work with in Uganda, they also face oppression and gender bias in getting their voices to be heard. One of the goals we have at Cameras For Girls is to change that.
Cultural Exchange Through Photography
Tanzania's diverse landscapes and vibrant communities offer a rich backdrop for our workshop. By expanding into Tanzania, Cameras For Girls aims to facilitate a cultural exchange through the lens. Participants will learn the art of photography and have the opportunity to tell their own stories, capturing the essence of Tanzanian life and culture.
Furthermore, by interacting with fellow students from Uganda and other parts of Africa, they will have the opportunity to extend dialogue and understanding between the various cultures that exist.
On our weekly Zoom calls, where the girls learn about photography, storytelling or business skills, it is great to see how they promote each other's creativity by sharing and supporting each other.
Fostering Creativity and Innovation
Creativity knows no boundaries, and Cameras For Girls believes in unlocking the creative potential in every individual. The workshop in Tanzania will encourage participants to think outside the box, experiment with different styles, and find their unique voice through the lens. This emphasis on creativity is not just about photography; it's about fostering innovation and originality.
We have seen this happen over time in our Ugandan workshops. Most of our girls who walk through the door on the first day are not the same when they exit that door a year later. While some may take time to find or muster that creative outlet, others jump in fully. The workshop and the year-long training gently guides these girls through the process of finding their place in the fray.
Cameras For Girls envisions a community where women storytellers, whether it's through the photographic or written medium, support and inspire each other. The expansion into Tanzania marks the beginning of a global network of passionate individuals connected by their love for photography. Through shared experiences and a common vision, we aim to create a community that transcends geographical boundaries.
Addressing Gender Bias In the Journalism Industry
Like many others, the journalism and photography industries have seen gender disparities. Cameras For Girls is committed to addressing this imbalance by providing opportunities for girls to enter the field confidently. The workshop in Tanzania is a step towards breaking stereotypes and encouraging girls to pursue their passions, irrespective of societal expectations.
Following the UN SDG #5, we envision a world where women and girls are given equal opportunities and equal pay and where their contributions to society are respected and honoured.
Conclusion
The excitement is palpable at Cameras For Girls as we prepare to host our first workshop in Tanzania this November. Beyond the technical skills of photography, we are dedicated to empowering young girls and women, fostering creativity, and building a global community that supports each other to express themselves freely. With its rich culture and diverse landscapes, Tanzania is not just a new location; it's a canvas for dreams to be captured and shared with the world.