The day I stepped into light
Hazmieh, Lebanon: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ) (2025), 32 pp.
"This photobook is the result of a journey we took together with our participants of the training on self-expression through photography, implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit(GIZ) / Civil Peace Service (CPS) Lebanon. During the 96 hours long training which consisted of intensive theoretical and practical classes on photography over a period of six weeks, young adults living in north Lebanon learned how to use photography as a form of self-expression with the aim of creating a sense of identity, inclusion and belonging. The training skilled the participants with the confidence to communicate their unique experiences, sharing their perspectives in a way that transcends social barriers. By teaching self-expression as a source of strength to claim one’splace in this world, this training also addressed the feeling of invisibility that many vulnerable and marginalized youth are facing, particularly those living in refugee and displaced communities. During the training participants were able to channel their past and present experiences, providing a sense of purpose and direction, and developed a confidence in their ability to express themselves, to be seen and to have their voices heard. Each photograph is a statement-a declaration of their existence, their thoughts, and the reflection of their self-awareness. As a result of the incredible outcomes the participants achieved in the training, we continued with a second phase in which follow-up sessions over a period of six months were held with four of the participants. Throughout these pages, filled with powerful photographs and words, we get a glimpse into their expressive work, which stands as a manuscript of their dedication and thrive for understanding. This photobook reflects the journey these strong young women took to find their own narrative that gave them their right to belong. Each chapter reminds us that every story deserves to be seen, every voice deserves to be heard." (Meryem Göktaş, Project Advisor, page 10)
"The four young women, the characters of this book and its segments, had shown bold attempts and strong commitment to photography after nine months of training and follow-up. During that time, they experimented with expressing themselves through the image, seeking to understand themselves, observing their surroundings, and creating a self-identity that grew from their different experiences a unique identity that expresses their voices against this world." (AlBaraa Haddad, Editor, Educator, page 6)