The creative photography of local and unemployed youth was shared on a live photo album by Chrysalis Academy to mark its 20th anniversary and give recognition to its students.
Chrysalis Academy provides a safe space for young people in South Africa to express themselves and explore their skills in photography. To mark its 20th anniversary, the institution shared creative photographs on a live photo album, taken by the unemployed youth were part of a three-month residential programme.
Chrysalis Academy Chief Executive, Lucille Meyer said: “The exhibition shows the creativity and innovation of young people, especially when they are in a safe space. The academy also serves as a form of social crime prevention”. More than 10 000 young people have benefited from the programme, which includes a 12-month work placement upon graduation.
Community Safety MEC Albert Fritz said: “Chrysalis Youth Month Photo Exhibition was initially displayed at the Artscape Theatre in 2017, photos from various photo clubs and Italian photographer Alessandro Lovino’s collection of photos detailing daily activities at Chrysalis Academy.”
Chrysalis Academy Head of Training Janine Turner said: “The photographs document the students’ experience at the academy. We are hoping that some of the photographs receive more international exposure.
Fritz added that the programme represented a fight against gender-based violence. Young men are also taken through the trauma they may have experienced and it reflects ways in which women should be treated. The work, therefore, shows the raw talents of youth coming from the townships.
