In 2013, conflict broke out in South Sudan, leading to a dangerous situation of armed conflict, economic decline, disease and hunger. With thousands of new arrivals fleeing to Uganda every day, South Sudan remains Africa’s largest refugee crisis. The series aims to empower refugee mothers and foster a dialogue about the need to safely access water, food, and firewood in the Imvepi Settlement, Uganda. Collecting food, water, and firewood in many African countries is a huge burden on women. Lack of safe access to these resources can be life-threatening particularly in conflict situations.
Matilde Simas, a first-generation Azorean-American visual storyteller, dedicates her artistic endeavors to social narratives and personal stories. Matilde engages in collaborative projects that empower individuals to co-create their narratives and shape their representation. Her accolades and collaborations with NGOs around the globe underscore her commitment to using visual art as a powerful tool for social activism. Notably, her evocative images find a place in the U.S. Trafficking in Persons Report and Kenyan Directory of Service Providers for Trafficking Persons.
