Writing has always been an inspiration for me. What is the driving force behind my writing? People.
Without people in my work, every element that is found in my creative piece would be just a shell. As a junior Journalist, most of my work is inspired people and nature, and I use experiences shared others to express how I feel in my work.
The Road to University photo essay emanated from a simple visit to the University hospital. As I went to get a routine visit, I couldn’t help noticing the hustle and bustle of the taximen, the vendors in the parching sun, and others being discharged and were waiting for their pickup. That moment struck something in me, and I decided to engage my subjects in discussion.
After learning about their story, I critique each experience separately and according to their merits. For example: one vendor told me she had been selling at on the street of the University gate for over 39 nine years. She highlighted the struggles she underwent and that allowed her to be where she is today.
Another story involved a taxi man who was reluctant to have his photography taken, however, he shared vivid details of his experience with staff, vendors, police and commuters for 20 years at the same location.
Patrons share their story of dealing with the vendors on the street and most of them were good experiences. Most of my subjects were eager to have their photographs taken while few were reluctant. Nonetheless it was a memorable experience for me.
I was truly moved learning from the vendors and commuters on the street. They all shared almost similar stories and most were happy connecting with me. I promised that I will visit them again for more insightful talk. Moments like these are worth your time and it if weren’t for rain that day, I would have had more stories to tell in the form of images.
