When I first came to Angola, in 2010, still photography was relatively new to me and it took me a while to realize that the camera was, in fact, serving as a shield – guarding me from first hand contact with what seemed to be terrible poverty and unsanitary conditions.

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Later on, through the photos I have taken and the relationships that followed, I began seeing the glory of Africa’s people, their rich culture and pure joy of life, so different from the western notions and prejudice.

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The journey with the camera has taught me how to look at things from a different angle, a non-judgmental point of view, and enabled me to deepen relationships that would not have even been formed if it wasn't for the camera - protecting those in front of the lens and myself, behind it.

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With these images, through a unique and authentic emotional journey, I hope to deliver a better understanding of what it is like to be a child in Africa.