Eight-year-old John Karanja carries firewood the traditional way – on his back. Kikuyu women and girls used to carry firewood, water and even children for long distances without getting tired. Karanja had walked for more than 10 kilometres in search of firewood for his family in a town called Kijabe – something he does more during school holidays. He did not seem bothered by what he was doing because it is normal to him. What struck me was the fact that roles have changed in the community – this chore used to be mainly for women and girls. He told me he would like to be a doctor so that he can help his family and community.
I was on my way to Narok – 60 kilometres from Nairobi – on an assignment. Being a photographer has shaped the way I appreciate the things I previously took for granted. I would like to highlight positive stories around me and share them with people from other parts of the world.
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Voices from the margins:
Multimedia: video, podcasts, and more.
- Poetry Slam in Zimbabwe
- The House of Hunger poetry slam held in Zimbabwe in 2006, and organised by the Pamberi Trust, showcased young artists performing inspirational work on issues from corporate power to child soldiers. The video features four of the poets.
Published by Pambazuka News.
- Iranian women speak out
- 3 March 2007, London. Women's rights activists marched through the English capital last week to celebrate International Women's Day with a protest against the misogyny of the Islamic regime in Iran and the threat of invasion by the US. Hear the voices of Iranian feminists Azar and Leila Parnian and the sounds of the demonstration as it passed through the heart of the city. Click here to learn more about the campaign.
Produced by Heidi Bachram.
- Raised Voices audio:
- Benny from West Papua on Corporate Power
- Vinayan from India on agriculture
