M'zab Valley, Algerian Walled Settlements

• Prize
  Honorable Mention
• Photographer
  Amy Siqveland, United States
• Website
  http://www.amysiqveland.com

Some of the Mozabite women in the M'zab Valley are known for wearing the white "haik," a North African garment, and leaving only one eye visible. This practice has been passed down for generations and is rooted in the Ibadi Muslim sect. The Mozabite beliefs stem from Berber tribal traditions going back to 11th century AD. There are five fortified settlements, or walled desert towns, in this area founded between 1012 and 1350 and they’re dedicated to preserving this unique ancient culture on the Sahara Desert.

I am a photographer with a background in social work. I use my pen and camera as grassroots tools to help raise awareness for underserved populations.