Artist statement:

In the wake of the recent arrival of refugees and asylum seekers to Australia by boat, I became acutely aware of how they are often reduced to a faceless mass—labelled simply as “boat people,” rather than seen as individuals. Through my work with Australian migrants, I aim to challenge this narrative by highlighting the diverse faces that make up Australia. Each person has a unique story, a different dream, and a presence that deserves to be acknowledged.

My passion for celebrating cultural diversity stems from my own experience as a migrant. Photography is my way of seeking connection—a means to uncover the deeper aspects of identity and belonging. In the process of capturing these images, I, too, find my own place within this vast, evolving cultural landscape.

The image is part of my current project titled My Australia, my journey.