Photo Start has a saying that I love, "Talent is universal. Opportunity is not. We are changing that."They have gone ahead and done exactly that. I have seen youth leaving a life of crime and turning their lives around after going through the program. Little children and teens have had a whole new world open up to them through Photo Start. And they are learning to tell their stories and their communities' stories through the photos they take.Photo Start is making a difference in the lives of children and youth, and that difference is impacting whole communities.
In a time when creativity and digital skills are increasingly vital, Photo Start shines as a beacon of opportunity and hope. They are not just teaching photography; they are changing lives, one image, and one story at a time. I wholeheartedly recommend supporting Photo Start, whether through donations, partnerships, or simply spreading the word about their incredible work. They are a testament to the power of education, creativity, and community in making the world a better place.
Previous Stories
As a photographer, it is rare to find an individual, leave alone an organization, giving professional photography & visual storytelling training, complete with digital life skills included, for free, especially to youth in underserved communities.
Photo Start is a one-of-a-kind organization that is doing that in countries across the globe. By offering creative and digital skills to under-served youth, Photo Start aims to narrow the digital divide, give these youth marketable creative skills and help them hone and amplify their voices as they seek to own and tell their stories their own way.
The result of these training programs continues to blow my mind as I can see firsthand the transformative power of the camera in the hands of these youth. It is an honour to work for and with Photo Start as we serve the youth in various communities across the world.
Photostart focused on photography storytelling. It empowers underserved communities by providing training and resources to express their stories through photography.
They are the best non profit organization that I've seen their work so far. They're credible and the best to be trusted. They've impacted lives and they're still impacting lives through their tireless work of nurturing new creatives in different communities
Wonderful organization that has done so much to help underprivileged people become confident and empowered individuals.
One of my favorite courses. I appreciate all the hard work and creativeness the instructors have. I learned so much during the course. And I really wish that I could redo it again
Capturing Dreams with Photo Start: A Journey of Youthful Talent
Once upon a time, in 2022 I joined Cinelab Akademie Initiative which was providing lessons about videography, photography and storytelling being supported by an organization named Photo Start aiming at changing the lives of countless young people. I had the privilege of being a part of this inspiring journey, both as a participant and later as a youth whose dreams have come true
My story with Photo Start began on a warm summer day when I thought i would never attend school again and my talent of art ends there but someone came to me with an idea of making joining Cinelab Akademie so that i can study filmmaking, I agreed because that was such a grate opportunity and therefor went on and signed up for the course admission.
On My 1st day attending class, I walked into a room filled with students, curiosity, and a palpable sense of excitement. The instructors, a team of skilled photographers and videographers, introduced themselves with infectious enthusiasm. They shared stories of their own creative journeys and explained how Photo Start aimed to provide lessons for young people to express themselves through visual arts.
Over the next few weeks, I found myself immersed in a world I never knew existed. The classes covered everything from the basics of composition to advanced techniques of storytelling through images. We learned to capture the play of light and shadow, the emotion behind a fleeting expression, and the narrative within a single frame. Each session was a revelation, and the camaraderie among the students fostered a supportive learning environment.
As my skills grew, so did my passion. Photo Start wasn't just about photography and videography; it was about empowerment. Through their mentorship program, experienced photographers were paired with us to guide and critique our work. My mentor, Mr Onen Dennise, became a guiding light in my creative journey. His insights challenged me to think beyond the lens and consider the stories I wanted to tell.
One of the most unforgettable experiences was when Mr Onen Dennise started taking us in field. it was such a good experience
As the months went by, I transitioned from being a student to becoming a mentor myself. It was a full-circle moment as I stood in front of a new batch of eager faces, sharing my own journey and encouraging them to explore their creativity fearlessly. Watching them grow and witnessing their transformation was a reward in itself.
Photo Start wasn't just an organization; it was a family that believed in the potential of every young person. It instilled in us the belief that our voices mattered and that our perspectives were unique treasures. The skills I gained were invaluable, but the confidence and sense of belonging I found were the true gems.
Today, as I reflect on my journey with Photo Start, I am filled with gratitude. The organization didn't just teach me photography and videography; it taught me about the power of community, the strength of collaboration, and the beauty of dreams made tangible through images. Photo Start will forever remain a chapter in my life that reminds me that creativity knows no bounds when nurtured with passion and purpose.
Photo Start has been so beneficial to Rebirth of a Queen organization , offering the girls and young women an opportunity to learn photography was the best empowerment we ever got
Having worked with Photostart for a number of years one thing is evident, changing lives. Alot of programs may not put this into consideration but Photostart has tailored the whole program to create impact in the different societies we operate in.
Previous Stories
I work with Photo Start as a community liason officer hence having the advantage to network, mingle and create new partnerships. This has broadened my networth as the say goes and grown me into capacities I had not thought of. The fact that on top of everything they pay and allow you to add on knowledge through different platforms allowing us to grow ourselves and capacities is something iam thankful for not forgetting all the acquired information is translated through them to touch the less fortunate in the different societies we exist in. Photostart is not about skill level training but transforming the lives of beneficiaries and its workers for the best. The future is safe if we all can FOCUS.
Photo Start does an amazing job impacting youth in the at-risk cities and neighborhoods where they provide their programs. I have been involved in managing the accounting for several non-profits, and am beyond impressed with the documented impact that Photo Start influences per dollar spent. It is truly remarkable.
My name is Melchizedeck Wanjala widely known as akingstone, a photographer videographer and an aspiring screen writer.
Enrolling in photography and visual storytelling classes with Photostart has been an enlightening experience that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in exploring their creative potential. From the beginning, I was impressed by the user-friendly interface and the well-structured courses.
One of the key strengths of the program was the ease with which the concepts were presented. The instructors did an excellent job of breaking down complex techniques into simple, understandable modules. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical assignments helped me grasp the fundamentals while also allowing me to immediately apply what I had learned. This hands-on approach accelerated my learning and boosted my confidence in my photography skills.
Upon completing the classes, I felt equipped and ready to face real-world challenges. I was thrilled to find that the knowledge and techniques I got from the tutors in photostart are the same used by photographrs i looked up to and these manifested vividly after i graduated and got a chance to work with highly established clients, by this im talking about kupa kenya in a show that they patnered with captain otoyo show [if you know it i dont need to echo who otoyo is in the kenyas entertainment and laugh industry],Nyakagwa Mahaga production,Ubunifu arts center, kent events and many others that i cant put down because the list will be endless and not forgeting individual projects i have done. what would i say to praise photostart other than thankyou for giving me the chance to nature my passion and spreading my wings. Today if i am to change your name i would call you a caring mother
Am Mathew Omondi .I work with photostart as a trainer.Photo start is an organization that help the youth and people in the community through photography skills.Photo start offer photography training to the community free of charge. Many people have been able to gain skill and be able to get at least something in there pockets.
Personally when I joined photo start I didn't have the skill needed in photography but as time was going I learnt the skills and became creative in it.Now I used the skill gained through photostart to earn some money.I also work with photostart as a trainer whereby I pass knowledge to other people and I feel proud of that.
Thanks to photo start for helping as to become good people and sharpen our future.
Photo Start is one of a kind. Their approach in reaching out to children and youth through Photography training is something worth celebrating. Having been their partner for one year plus, I have seen tremendous transformation among out youths whom they have trained that have produced the best photographers we have in the country.
Their dedication towards uplifting livelihoods has had a ripple effect on the approach we use to support our beneficiaries and its sustainability.
Am Felix Ragen, A photographer specialized in documentary photography. Under documentary photography I do sports,Art and Culture.
Am a student of Photostart and currently under the TOT program.
I joined the class last year when I realised I have passion for photography.
The two organizations have help me to be a better photographer and a better person in general.
Currently I work with sport teams and cultural dances groups.
I work with kariobangi legends fc as their official photographer.
This is a football team based in kariobangi north,Nairobi,Kenya.
Am also the official photographer of Tarumbeta Africa.This is an organization that support talents through performing arts and cultural activities.
So that's were am attached and I do my work currently.
Lastly am also in the program Photostart TOT.
Thats my story..
You can check my work on my Instagram page @Felixragen18 that's were I post my personal project.
You can also look for Kariobangilegendsfc for both Instagram and Facebook pages.
Am amazing organization to work with. Not only are they mission driven but they’re responsive and care about their donors as well!
Photostart has been brightening the future of Kids and Young Adults, by offering Photography/Videography and Life Skills. I must say that this Organisation is doing a great job and making a difference to thousands of students from across the globe to impact their communities.
Seeing students who knew nothing about photography begin their photography journey and enhancing their creativity day after day pushes the team to impact more people and communities
I feel that this organisation is working a lot for such a great cause, and i would really like appreciate them a lot and the fact that I am part of this amazing team, Kenyan Team
Thank you so much for helping out with my projects while I've been away. It's such a good feeling to know that we can take time out when needed and the team is here not just to support one another when the need arises.
It was a fun experience and a very welcoming atmosphere. the commitment of the students and teacher were the most important factors, the willingness to learn is what is generated in a large way.
The best charity organization so far!
I was able to gain lots of knowledge from this organization and I am grateful for the opportunity given to me. I recommend them.
Photostart is doing a lot for the kids, and I would like to appreciate them for that. They are doing a great job and making a difference in the lives of thousands of poor students by giving them skills and thereby preparing them for a better future.
For me that's a terrific experience, because I didn't know the world of photography but now I can take pictures and save important moments, especially being able to tell a story in an image.
I would like there to be more workshops or courses where postproduction or photos editing are deepened.
Thanks for all!
I worked as a volunteer in a Photo Start program run by i3 Impacto Social in El Alto city (Bolivia). It was a wonderful experience to work with young people, and how the knowledge provided (hard and soft) can be useful in changing and improving people’s lives and as a way to change and communicate ideas to the world.
Coming across Photo Start is one of the best things that has happened to me this year. I was able to gain more knowledge about photography and I can't be grateful enough to them for granting me the opportunity. You should also be a part of them if you are not.
I love everything about this organization. They teach these exceptional young people invaluable skills that will have a profound impact on their lives. I am looking forward to seeing what this amazing organization has in store for the future.
As an educator it is amazing to see how Photo Start equips students to reframe their stories while learning essential visual media skills
Photo Start is an incredible nonprofit. Its mission, model and approach are effective in impacting thousands of lives around the globe.
I am extraordinarily proud of how the team has responded to the Covid pandemic, and how they have continued to serve the global community in all manner of ways.
I’ve had a very positive experience donating to the organization. There is a very smooth process and good communication.
We love Photo Start for its family values and strong commitment to bettering communities and learners from the ground up.
Fabulous charity! These children and not only learning a fabulous skill, like photography, they are also learning every day skills that will help them throughout their life. It provides many a safe and enjoyable place to go.
The Photo Start program has provided opportunities for young adults in under-resourced areas around the globe to share their stories and create a path for educational and professional advancement.
Photo Start is an amazing organization. You can see the real, and significant, impact they have on the lives of the young people they are able to reach with their programs. The videos of students is proof you can see for yourself. Check some out on Instagram @photostartgo!
I can unequivocally say that the entire team at Photo Start gives their hearts and souls to this work, to the students, and to this organization.
More to the point, there has already been generational impact created through this programming.
Photo Start students have used their new skills, with support from the PS Family, to overcome enormous hardship. They have developed the skills and confidence to become exceptional leaders and role models to others in their communities.
Recently, some of our students in Nairobi who are former gang-members, invited local police officers to join them in a much-needed trash clean up in their community.
As our students worked together and documented these efforts, the police were so impressed with their skills, demeanor, and leadership, that the police now want their own Photo Start program to share their stories, too!
Photo Start programming helps promote more positive community relations and so much more.
Besides helping former gang members find opportunties, including dignified and legitimate employment, our programs:
Gather students to use their new skills
Encourage them to engage with local challenges
Transform challenges into opportunities
Generate more positive community relationships
Create positive shared outcomes
Help make communities safer and more hospitable to all
Photo Start is now partnering with humanitarian aid organizations to document inspirational work around the world, which offers Photo Start students opportunities to learn, earn, grow and give back to their communities.
We are so proud of this organization, the team, and the amazing work that is generating so much good in the world.
Worked with David as a translation assistant and the job was well defined and well managed. Volunteering at Photo Start was a privilege. Good luck!
As a volunteer, I feel like my time and efforts were appreciated. The cause is terrific and the students are amazing. What more can you ask for than an org that does what it says???
Photo Start is genuinely a next-level nonprofit model. Every student they take into their program departs with the tools, abilities, and confidence that they will need to rise up and take on the world. They truly illustrate just how important opportunity and education are to creating self-realizing change for the good in today's world.
This nonprofit is something special. The mission is important and the team is dedicated to working hard to seeing it through. They work across multiple continents and work with some of the most impoverished people on the planet in various slum areas around the world teaching business and life skills to children and helping them towards a brighter future. This nonprofit uses photography as a platform to teach a multitude of life skills that help people at every step in their life from basic English skills to learning how to interact and engage with others. This nonprofit will continue to make generational impact.
I discovered the amazing work of Photo Start this year through my client, who happens to be one of its founders. I am truly amazed by the passion of everyone in the organization. The heart and dedication of Photo Start showed me that there are still people who are willing to go the distance for a purpose that is bigger than themselves. Truly a changemaker!
Photo Start is a great organization filled with people who care deeply about teaching underserved children about photography so that they might be able to use these skills to improve their life.
In my role as an accountant and consultant I have closely studied the operations and performance of several nonprofits. I am intimately involved in reviewing the financials of this organization. I can assure you that David, the founder, and his team run a tight ship and generate the most value possible out of every dollar spent in support of their mission. The amazing energy and dedication of the staff and volunteers is truly inspiring. The impact on the children participating in their programs is clearly visible and long lasting. I encourage all to support Photo Start!