My Nonprofit Reviews

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.