Balloon Girl by Shirren LimBalloon Girl by Shirren Lim
While wandering and exploring the market in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India, I came across a young woman selling balloons. Her captivating smile instantly caught my attention, and I couldn't resist buying one of her balloons. We chatted for a bit, and in the end, I couldn't resist capturing a photograph of her.
Fishing on the Harbour by Leanne LindsayFishing on the Harbour by Leanne Lindsay
I love the energy of street photography - the unexpected moments, the stories waiting to be captured. This afternoon, I found myself drawn to a bustling spot along the Sydney Harbour foreshore. Crowds ambled by, enjoying the afternoon sun, but my eye caught something unique - a family setting up fishing rods! Intrigued I don't know why, but I never considered you could fish in Sydney Harbour. I waited patiently as they baited their hooks and cast their lines. The harbour, usually a domain of ferries and sailboats, suddenly seemed like a whole new world. Mustering my courage, I approached them, camera in hand. Explaining I was a street photographer, I asked if I could capture them in action. They were friendly and happy to chat. Turns out, they're regulars here, and despite the harbor traffic, they often have a good haul! This photo captures the essence of that unexpected encounter. The family relaxed and focused, their lines cutting through the vibrant blue water. The backdrop of the Sydney Opera House fading into the background adds a touch of iconic grandeur.
Hope by Bartłomiej ŚnierzyńskiHope by Bartłomiej Śnierzyński
Yelizaveta Hopatsa completed her first year of clinical psychology studies at seventeen. She loves to read, is meticulously thorough, and has a perfect memory. She came to Poland with her mother for safety and to earn money for their family who remained in their beloved Ukraine. She is our neighbor.
We provided the girls with individual and group counseling, took them on a tour of Poznań, explained the Polish law and tax system, helped them start their own businesses, and finally, invited them to a photo session. "It was the first time I felt like a woman since the war began," one of the girls said, capturing the essence of our project. We aimed not only to separate them from the war trauma and isolation but to show that they are not anonymous refugees or exiles. They are our neighbors, each with their own story and past.
The AITWAR Foundation's project "How to Find Yourself HERE" aimed to help Ukrainian women become more active professionally and socially. It was financed by the City of Poznań with funds donated by the nation and government of Taiwan. These are our heroes.
Yelizaveta Hopatsa is one of the 23 sessions completed for @fundacja_aitwar.