Loliwe Phiri in Modogashe, Kenya
By Loliwe Phiri
As I reflect on my nine-year journey as a photographer laying on my bed while staring through the window watching the golden sunset and hearing birds chirping in Lusaka, I'm reminded of the opportunity that holding a camera in my hands gives me - the power to tell stories that inspire change. My path has taken me to cities, remote and challenging locations, documenting the life and resilience of communities in Africa.
Early Beginnings
Growing up in Zambia and South Africa, I witnessed firsthand the disparities in healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. These experiences together fueled my passion for social impact and storytelling. Among the many lessons I’ve learned, three stood out for me;
Key Lessons:
1. Empathy is essential:
When you visit a new place it’s very important to understand the context and emotions of the people you photograph. I don’t immediately rush to bring out my camera equipment. What I firstly do is try to connect with the people. I start by introducing myself and try my best to be quiet and listen. As conversations go on sometimes we find similar interests and other times we laugh together. Doing this helps me capture authentic stories of the people I meet.
In the past, what I’ve noticed is that if people feel open and comfortable with me, they begin to tell me how they would like to be photographed and where.
2. Collaboration is key:
Working closely with International and Local NGOs, the government and communities has helped me amplify the voices and efforts the clients I work with are doing.
When I visit a new town, I don’t immediately go to the field and work. There’s always an introduction that happens, exchange of greetings and what we will be doing within the community at the government offices. I normally take this as an opportunity to ask questions and learn from the people on the ground. Never assume you know it all when you’re in the field.
3. Respect and sensitivity:
Approaching each assignment with cultural awareness and respect has earned me trust and access to sensitive stories in the front lines. Always remember to be polite and respectful. An acronym engraved in my heart is (PST) meaning PLEASE, SORRY and THANK YOU. These three words are universal. If I can’t speak the language where I am deployed to work, it’s one of the first things I ask a translator just so that I am able to learn and use them while I work.
A tip I normally do is research on the place I am going to visit. There was a time I worked in a Muslim community and I had to buy a head wrap and long Dera dress to help me connect better with the people because of their conservative culture.
Inspirations
1.The resilience of communities:
Witnessing people's strength and determination to live life, work and pursue their dreams in the face of adversity inspires me to carry on with my life daily. It brings me great joy and fulfilment.
2.The impact of visual storytelling:
Over the years Seeing how my images and films have contributed to positive change to some extent motivates me to continue going out there to meet new people doing what I do.
Photography for me is more than capturing moments; it's a tool for social change. I'm grateful for the opportunities I've had and look forward to the stories yet to be told.
What inspires you to take action in your community?
