In the past years, I have followed my path as a photographer on and off, so during this past year, I decided to take advantage of the opportunity with EYE to focus on my idea of business and entrepreneurship.
I thought that by working with NGOs and individuals, I could use my skills with documentary/reportage photography to my advantage, working and interacting with them. With Environmental, the advantage was to follow their initiatives step by step, using my knowledge to learn and teach something new in the NGO world. In addition, it certainly cannot be ruled out that I had the opportunity to meet many future clients for my young business.
During my stay in the Netherlands, I had the opportunity to interact with different cultures on topics related to personal growth. I had the opportunity to express myself freely with my photography during youth exchanges, retreats, etc…
In addition, with my Host, we created cards related to personal growth, using photographs created specifically for the EYE project. I had the opportunity to make myself known as a photographer with other associations and partners, and I had the opportunity to create creative stickers for me and my HE to use for our mutual business. In return, I received advice on how to relate to customers by asking me questions about what my next step would be in my business.
I had the opportunity to learn new things at a community level, working in a group instead of as an individual during the training courses. By approaching other partners of my HE I was able to get in touch with new clients, starting new photographic collaborations. Participating in these initiatives gave me the opportunity to make myself known and open new horizons and collaborations.
Certainly also with my Host, there will be other opportunities to work together in the future.
I am very excited to have had this experience, it has certainly opened my mind to my possibilities. Feeling the trust given to me by the people photographed, having their feedback, made me understand how much I feel this work is mine.
