The Acts of Kindness Fund & Learning Program

Just like the recent report from our Kenyan microbusiness incubator, this update focuses on the theme of graduation, showcasing the remarkable achievements of the students in Photo Start’s programs.

Before that, we would like to provide a final update on the Acts of Kindness Fund project in Badakhshan, Afghanistan. As mentioned in our previous Afghan update, BBS conducted household hygiene workshops, followed by the delivery of 20 innovative breadmaking ovens to families in the region. These ovens, installed in various methods and conditions, were carefully assessed for wood usage and smoke impact. The data revealed that the optimum productivity was achieved at a 75-degree angle, resulting in a 50% reduction in wood consumption and a 15-20% decrease in smoke compared to traditional stoves. The success of this pilot project has led to a high demand for these ovens, and we are working diligently, through Aseel, to deliver and install an additional 40 ovens in family homes before the winter season.

Now, let's turn our attention to the Photo Start program, where we have witnessed tremendous growth and exciting developments among their students.

In April, Kelly Brantner, CEO of BBS and a board member of Photo Start, had the privilege of meeting several graduates in Homabay, Kenya. The discussion was enlightening as the graduates shared key learnings from the program and expressed the profound impact of photography in telling their personal stories. They emphasized how Photo Start provided them with an outlet that nurtured confidence, creativity, and positive self-awareness.

Since that meeting in Kenya, Photo Start has marked several more program graduations:

• On June 3rd, the Global Vision Achievers (GVA) program in Nairobi, Kenya, held a successful graduation ceremony, marking a significant milestone for the students.
• The Training of Trainers 2023, led by Photo Start's Global Head of Programming in Nairobi, Kenya, equipped aspiring educators with the necessary skills to continue empowering young minds.
• In Bolivia, students participating in the "Eric's Circle of Light" digital program recently graduated from their visual storytelling course. Their journey stands as a testament to resilience, dedication, and the powerful impact of visual storytelling. Each student's success story is filled with hard work, determination, and the joy of achievement.
• Next, we eagerly anticipate the graduation of the latest cohort at Photo Start's partner program in Kampala, Uganda, where even more young individuals will take a step closer to realizing their dreams.

Photo Start showcases the diverse and inspiring images of their talented students on Instagram and we encourage you to visit and follow their page.

We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the BBS community for their support on July 12th during GlobalGiving's July Bonus Day. Your generosity will play a vital role in supporting Photo Start's vision "to develop creative visual storytelling and digital skills, and inspire confidence in young people, creating a lasting impact for current and future generations."

Your support is transforming lives and empowering young minds to reach for the stars. Together, we are making a difference… thank you!

Links:

• Photo Start Instagram Page