Cihannuma

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

Worldwide | Tuesday, November 8, 2011 | flickr photos

Much of the natural resources needed to feed the growing appetite of the so-called developed world are being discovered in the underdeveloped countries, in the lands that in many cases were left to their natives as the scraps of colonization.

Some of these resources remained untapped because of the difference in the way the indigenous people treat the nature. However, global demand is tempting governments of their countries and multinational companies to encroach in their land with tricky business deals or a seemingly moral argument: for the benefit of so many, the few should be willing to compromise.

To me, this is only a new form of colonialism.

The Brooke's Point area of the Palawan Island portrayed in my photos is an example, where rich mining resources and a potential for oil palm plantations mean more for the government than the indigenous peoples' rights.

Many leaders of the Pala'wan community that hosted me want to preserve the nature within their ancestral land in relation to their traditional ways of life. But for this fundamental right they have to fight against very powerful forces.

All over the world indigenous people are faced with similar problems and are left out of decision-making processes that concern their own lands and lives.

I passionately believe that photography has the power to raise awareness to this sensitive issue. I want to apply my anthropology training, my interest in conservation and my love for diversity in nature and culture, into a refined style of photography to use this power.

I believe and I am sure, having Jason as a mentor will get me many steps closer to realize this dream.