This past August, the Samburu of Northern Kenya celebrated a major shift that happens once every 15-20 years. Mass circumcision ceremony marks the end of one generation and the beginning of the next. It is a time when boys become men as the current warriors of the community become young elders. During this time, the initiating families leave behind daily life and gather far from their homes in their respective clans for two to three months. The boys spend this time bonding with one another to strengthen kinship as age-old rituals take place, each doused with meaning.
Miki Iwamura was born in Japan and raised in Tokyo and New York. Her formative years have developed a strong foundation for cultural diversity, which eventually lead her to various corners of the world with a camera.
Miki Iwamura’s photographs have been exhibited in the United States and abroad, online publication and small print publication. Her projects are based on cultural and wildlife conservation and working with non-profit organizations.
Awards 13th Pollux Awards The Photography Gala Awards 2019
Winner Series and Honrable Mention
Non-Pro, Culture & Daily Life
Fine Art Photography Awards 2019
Nominee Series
Non-Pro, Seascape
Focus on the Story International Photo Festival 2018
Runners up for Single Images, Human Condition
Garrison Art Center 2012
1st Place in Architecture
Curated by Robert Mann
