About Alyson:
Alyson Smith is a photographer storyteller, avid traveller, long-term activist and business psychologist who lives between Cape Town and a small village in the UK. She spends her days with her camera in hand, capturing the moments that matter, the ones in between. Often working on personal projects, but also finding ways to integrate photography into coaching and counselling. Alyson has shot for PWB previously
1. How do you believe your photography can make a difference for them?
This assignment I am fundraising for is in the city of Knysna a small town in South Africa. Its aim is to reduce the barriers and stigma of HIV and increase opportunities for children and youth in marginalised communities. There is a natural synergy between my own work (photography and therapy/ coaching) and the type of approaches the organisation uses (expressional art, participatory learning and narrative therapy). My goal in contributing to a campaign here is to highlight and showcase the hope and positivity that every person possesses underpinned by the principles of Ubuntu.
2. How will your storytelling make a difference in this context?
Photography opens the window for people to see situations and themselves in different ways. It encourages people to see both within and outside the frame, drawing into the conversation pieces that are missing or are often not given a voice. I hope that by providing a first-hand account of the organisation it may inspire those that are supported by the organisation, those that work in the organisation and others who may be able to contribute to the important work that they do.
3. What message would you like to send to your supporters?
Ubuntu - a word originating in South Africa, meaning "I am because we are". Together we can build a better world. Thank you for your support.