Before we parted ways, Hamad used my camera to take a photo of me. When I
studied it later, I was astonished. Although my gaze was intent, my features
were soft. I looked relaxed and open, and about 10 years younger than I am.
Despite my discomfort, it was clear that the work agreed with me.
I’ve had two key realizations about my TGL experiences. First, this work can
really open one up emotionally, which can be scary but is ultimately a very good
thing. I’ve come home with a new perspective and a clearer sense of what’s
important in my life. The second is that being of service to the children and the
NGO is paramount, regardless of anything else we might do on the trip.
Although few of these kids are likely to make photography their livelihood, we
teach them a skill that could prove useful to them and their communities. By
putting cameras in these young people’s hands, we empower them with a tool to
record their own experiences and tell their own stories, rather than let
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I’m looking forward to my next TGL trip, whenever and wherever it might be.
PC MAGAZINE DIGITAL EDITION (^) I SUBSCRIBE (^) I JUNE 2019