Photos: Earth >> Africa >> Rwanda >> East >> Nord >> Ruhengeri

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Cooperative smile


Cooperative smile
Photo Information
Copyright: Adam Scotti (ascotti) Silver Star Critiquer/Silver Note Writer [C: 15 W: 0 N: 48] (250)
Genre: People
Medium: Black & White
Date Taken: 2007-12-17
Categories: Daily Life
Camera: Canon EOS 40D, Canon 80-200mm F2.8
Exposure: f/6.3, 1/160 seconds
More Photo Info: [view]
Photo Version: Original Version
Theme(s): Women and Children of Africa [view contributor(s)]
Date Submitted: 2008-01-19 12:31
Viewed: 619
Points: 4
[Note Guidelines] Photographer's Note
Here is a shot from a weaving cooperative in northern Rwanda in the town of Ruhengeri. Unlike some other countries in Africa, Cooperatives have caught on really easily and to great success in Rwanda. A comparison can be the 25 different people selling the same product right next to one and other on the various main roads in Ghana.

This cooperative is mainly based on weaving products, however the men who are apart of it do wood or bone work. An interesting aspect of Donor Aid to Rwanda right now is that it is being mainly directed towards women. This is not in an effort to be promote gender equality but because they are simply better at managing their money. A current trend, which some attribute to "The War" or Genocide as we know it, is men spending their earnings on Banana Beer / Wine. Women for the most part on the other hand spend their money on essentials like schooling, food, housing and the like.

Seeing these women work is absolutely amazing. The speed at which they work on a continual basis, hour after hour is mind blowing. It's also incredible that only a few of them have glasses as the work is so small and detailed. Obviously some can only afford glasses, but nonetheless, for those who don't and still manage to do great work is inspiring.

I had the added benefit of playing off of another photographer who was also shooting and capturing most of their attention.

Anyways, drop a line and let me know what you think or if you have any stories from that neck of the woods.

-Adam
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Critiques [Translate]

Hi Adam.

This is definitely a great pic. A lot of humanity in this smile. Good job ! ;)

Nice picture and nice story. I went trough your portfolio and I think you're making very nice photography. Very nice smile on this picture.

Réjean

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