Families Coping iwth AIDs

• Prize
• Photographer
  Kathleen Gerber, United States
• Studio
  Kathleen Gerber
• Website
  http://www.kgerberphoto.com/
• Instagram
  https://www.instagram.com/kathygerberphoto/

In a country in which 27% of the adult population has died of AIDs
the results leaves more than a half a million children orphaned. This
series of photos shows both family and non-family members joining
together to coexist while dealing with this heinous illness. This
extended family system assists mothers with AIDs in the caring and
rearing of their children along with grandmothers and aunts taking
on the responsibility after loved ones have been lost. I recently
visited this village with a representative from Reencontroo in
Maputo. During our visit we saw the full range: happy children,
mothers doing well with their meds contrasting with another who
had been taken to the hospital, suffering uncles, etc. The extended
families provide a safety net for the children should the unthinkable
happen. Maputo, Mozambique

I have always appreciated photography and began my own journey years ago exploring and refining my eye for seeing, respecting, and capturing the beauty around me. My journey with photography has exposed me to some amazing moments that are powerful memories that stay with me just the same. I have found myself drawn to photo essays since still photography is a powerful way to translate conditions and experiences between different cultures. I am motivated and dedicated to using my skills as a photographer to tell powerful and meaningful stories that evokes an understanding and/or action.