My favorite type of art to create is documentary and candid photography that focuses on environmental storytelling. As a first gen immigrant, I am drawn to the "in between" moments of daily life & capturing the dignity and beauty of individuals in their own safe spaces. I love creating visual narratives that bridge the gap between personal identity and community belonging, using my camera to document the vibrant, often overlooked textures of our shared environments

My inspiration comes from the intersections of community and resilience. I am deeply moved by the stories of people who build "home" wherever they are, a theme that stems from my own background and my experience in volunteer service. I find creative energy in public spaces where people gather, in the specific lighting of a lived in room, and in the rich cultural history of the diaspora.

With those winnings it would fund to launch a community centered portrait project titled "Safe Spaces," dedicated to showcasing the stories of third-culture residents and community organizers. This would allow me to invest in higher quality production for a public exhibition, curate a printed book of these visual stories to distribute within the community, and host a creative speaking space. My goal is to use the funds to create a environment of visibility and artistic empowerment for others.