Roots & Wings

“Roots & Wings” fosters connections between youths-at-risk and retired seniors through photographic storytelling. Photography is an ideal medium for storytelling because it is accessible and easy to learn, requiring only a mobile phone. With light training and guidance, it can be wielded as a powerful tool to express untold stories and capture diverse perspectives.

Over 12 weeks, youths and seniors will collaborate to create a photography exhibition, which will have both a physical and online presence. Throughout the project, youths will take on multiple roles:

• As learners, they will pick up mobile photography skills alongside seniors, potentially guiding their older counterparts.
• As conversation partners, they will share perspectives through the photos they capture, fostering an open exchange where all viewpoints are valued.
• As proxy grandchildren, they will allow the seniors to show care and support without formal responsibilities, while experiencing love and encouragement from these meaningful connections.
• As co-creators for the photography exhibition, they will have an avenue to share untold stories, becoming their own advocates and enhancing their self-worth and confidence through the recognition of their contributions.

Key processes include building knowledge between generations, developing photography skills, selecting photo subjects and concepts, and curating photos based on themes that spark further dialogue (eg. “Changes”, “Survive & Thrive”, “Imperfections & Hope”). Facilitated conversations and reflections will allow both generations to exchange stories, ideas, and perspectives through the photos taken.

“Roots & Wings” ultimately seeks to promote autonomy, self-efficacy and a sense of relatedness, helping youths-at-risk develop positive attitudes and behaviours towards societal challenges in the long run.