A lens on Uganda

Snap Foundation workshops in Karamoja and Eastern Uganda

Over the past couple of weeks the Snap Foundation travelled across eastern Uganda, running photography workshops with young people in communities where many have never held a camera before.

Our journey began in the foothills of Mount Elgon at Home of Friends in Kapchorwa, a peaceful place surrounded by green hills, coffee farms and the steady rhythm of rural life. From there we travelled hundreds of miles across the region, eventually reaching Karamoja in north-eastern Uganda; a vast and striking landscape of open plains, mountains and traditional villages where culture and community life remain deeply rooted.

Along the way we worked with more than 100 young people, introducing them to photography as a way to tell their own stories.

For many of the students, it was the first time they had used a digital camera or even seen their photographs printed instantly. The excitement was immediate.

Within minutes the cameras were out, laughter was everywhere, and the students were photographing each other, their friends, their surroundings and the life of their community.

What quickly became clear is that photography is far more than a technical skill. It becomes a language. A way for young people to show the world how they see it.

Matany Girls’ Vocational School

One of the most memorable days was spent at Matany Girls’ Vocational School near Moroto, founded by the remarkable Florence Naduk, whose lifelong commitment to educating girls in this remote region earned her a Diamond Medal from the President of Uganda. Spending time with the students there was inspiring. The girls approached the cameras with confidence and curiosity, photographing their friends, their school environment and the small everyday moments that make up their lives. Their images were joyful, thoughtful and full of personality; reminders that talent and creativity exist everywhere, given the opportunity.

A visit to Karamoja’s traditional villages

During our time in Karamoja we also visited Nakapelimoru, said to be East Africa’s largest traditional village. Guided by Joseph Siya Engole, once a cattle rustler and raider and now someone helping visitors understand the region’s history and culture, we gained a deeper insight into life in this extraordinary community.

We spent time in a manyatta, a traditional homestead made up of mud huts enclosed by wooden fencing. Sitting together, sharing food cooked over an open fire and talking with local guides and school children, we were reminded how strong the bonds of family, culture and tradition remain here.

On one particularly memorable day, a small group of young guides joined us for a photography session, alongside five school children who had been rewarded for their academic effort. It was a day filled with laughter, learning and an incredible sense of shared curiosity.

Photography as empowerment

The purpose of Snap Foundation’s work is simple: to empower young people through photography.

In many of the places we visit, access to technology is limited. Cameras, computers and smartphones are often luxuries. Yet the instinct to document life, to tell stories and to share experiences is universal.

By placing cameras in the hands of young people and showing them how to frame an image, capture a moment and think about storytelling, we open a door to creativity and confidence. The results are often remarkable. Students who begin the day shy and uncertain quickly become engaged, collaborative and proud of what they create. Seeing their photographs printed for the first time is always a special moment; a physical reminder that their perspective matters.

The warmth of Uganda

Beyond the workshops themselves, what stays with us most is the warmth of the people. Across villages, schools and towns we were greeted with infectious smiles, generosity and curiosity. Uganda is a country blessed with extraordinary landscapes, green hills, red earth roads, sunshine and rain that sustain fertile land, but it is the people who leave the deepest impression. Their resilience, humour and openness make every encounter meaningful.

Thank you

None of this would be possible without the support of the organisations and individuals who help make these journeys happen.

Special thanks go to Charlotte Beauvoisin who expertly planned our trip and led us on an incredible journey. We thank photography trainer Howard Brundrett who's great sense of humour and photographic wizardry provided real oomph to the teaching experience. We'd also like to thank our guide Rashid, and the hosts who looked after us on our epic journey: Daan and his team at Home of Friends, Theo and his crew at Kara-Tunga, and Anke, James and their colleagues at Karamoja Arts, and to everyone who supported the Snap Foundation in bringing cameras and equipment to the region. You can click see Snap founder Graham Dodridge's photographs from the programme. Most of all, thank you to the students and young people who took part.

Their photographs tell the real story.

And through their eyes, we are all reminded that every community has powerful stories waiting to be seen. If you'd like to support the work of the Snap Foundation and help bring photography workshops to more young people around the world, please click our Donations button at the top of this page.