Within western societies and thinking, there has been a one minded representation on African civilization. They often only capture the poverty within townships which are mostly views from an outside perspective. These images are of disorder and little hope which cloud the reality. We as the privilege subconsciously create this imaginative boundary separating us from them. Consequently, through my series I want to break this invisible line and reveal aspirational stories that so often go amiss. Additionally, highlighting a new beginning and thus Complementing their ambitions.



In my portrait series I interviewed a variety of characters within my local township, Kayamandi. These are photos of dignity that display stories of ambition. The stories capture a parallel to our own lives which many may not have considered. I do not intend to portray my own judgement or feelings, this is their story. I hope to dispel the stereotypes of wildlife and poverty in South Africa and uncover the roots of a civilization. Ultimately, I hope my images open the eyes of the world creating a sense of empathy and likeness to their own lives. I come to this conclusion having been from a privileged background myself and took wonder and inspiration from their stories. These people are innovators and creators and we can learn a lot from them and their ambition. This message is not exclusive to South Africa there is poverty in all parts of the world.



My aim of this picture series is to create awareness and drive the ideas of equality revealing a perspectives within townships contrasting against photo journalism and outside views that have invested little time in the lives of the subjects.