Finding Our Place: An Immigrant Mother’s Journey to Belong
You know, there are many things I like about the community here. Really, sometimes it feels so nice. I meet people who are very warm
A PORTRAIT OF ST ALBANS is more than just a photography project; it’s a community-driven initiative designed to highlight the diverse and often untold stories of the people who make up our city. From the very beginning, we’ve placed a strong emphasis on involving the community in every aspect of the project. This involvement is particularly focused on collaborating with charitable organisations across St Albans to reach individuals who are facing hardships and challenges that may have silenced their voices in the past.
The heart of our project lies in the belief that everyone’s story deserves to be told, especially those who have experienced marginalisation, adversity, or discrimination. By partnering with local charities and community groups, we’re able to connect with individuals who may not have had the opportunity to share their stories publicly before. These organisations play a vital role in helping us reach out to people who are often on the fringes of society—those who are experiencing homelessness, mental health issues, disability, or other forms of social exclusion.
Through these partnerships, we’re not just capturing images but also collecting personal narratives that speak to the resilience, strength, and dignity of those facing hardships. Each portrait is paired with the individual’s story, told in their own words, offering a window into their lives, their struggles, and their hopes. This narrative approach ensures that the project is not just about visuals but about giving a voice to those who are too often unheard.
Community involvement doesn’t stop at the individuals being photographed. We’re also engaging with volunteers, local businesses, and residents who are passionate about supporting the project. This collective effort helps to ensure that the stories we’re telling are truly representative of the broader St Albans community. The input and support from the community have been invaluable, as they bring different perspectives and resources to the table, making the project richer and more inclusive.
As we continue to build A PORTRAIT OF ST ALBANS, we are deeply committed to ensuring that the final exhibition is not just a display of images but a powerful testament to the diversity and resilience of our community. The interest from venues across the city to host the exhibition speaks volumes about the desire to see and hear these stories. The exhibition will be more than a showcase; it will be a gathering point for the community to reflect, connect, and foster a deeper understanding of the lives of those who walk the same streets but may lead very different lives.
We hope that by bringing these stories into the light, we can challenge perceptions and encourage conversations that lead to greater empathy and support for those who are struggling. In this way, A PORTRAIT OF ST ALBANS aims not only to document the present but to inspire a more inclusive and compassionate future for our city. The project is still in its early days, but the enthusiasm and commitment from all involved are a strong indication that we’re on the right path. Together, we’re not just telling stories; we’re building a stronger, more united community.
Collaboration is at the heart of the A PORTRAIT OF ST ALBANS project. We work closely with numerous charitable organisations to amplify our impact and reach. These partnerships are vital in giving a voice to those facing hardships and promoting community understanding. By joining forces, we ensure that our project not only highlights individual stories but also strengthens community awareness and provides direct support to those who need it most. Together, we are making a more significant difference, fostering a more compassionate and informed St Albans.
The A PORTRAIT OF ST ALBANS project is steadily progressing, with our current focus on capturing both images and stories from individuals who found hope during challenging times.
By gathering these powerful narratives and portraits, we aim to highlight the resilience and strength that helped them persevere, offering support and inspiration to others who may be experiencing similar difficulties.
We are actively looking for more organisations to collaborate with and will be out and about in the community over the next few weeks and months to connect with more people and continue this important work.
You know, there are many things I like about the community here. Really, sometimes it feels so nice. I meet people who are very warm
When I started looking for a place in May, I was hopeful. I knew it wouldn’t be easy—nothing ever is when you’re moving to a
I got made redundant last year when my company downsized. It all happened so fast—one moment, everything seemed fine, and the next, I was without
You know, there are many things I like about the community here. Really, sometimes it feels so nice. I meet people who are very warm
I’m pleased to announce that we have a new collaborative partner, “No Floor No More” (NFNM) in St Albans. We’re excited about working together to
When I started looking for a place in May, I was hopeful. I knew it wouldn’t be easy—nothing ever is when you’re moving to a
I got made redundant last year when my company downsized. It all happened so fast—one moment, everything seemed fine, and the next, I was without
St Albans has been my home for as long as I can remember. I’ve raised my children here, in a town that has always felt
I’m 40 years old, and I never thought I’d be living in a static caravan at this stage in my life. But here I am,
I’m sitting here by the window, staring out at the world moving on without me, and all I can feel is this heavy, suffocating weight
Every morning, I drag myself out of bed before the sun’s even up. It’s early, and I’m tired, but I’ve gotten used to it. I
Every winter, when the frost begins to settle on the window panes and the days grow shorter, Edith, now in her 90th year, faces a
Every morning, just before dawn, James—though that’s not his real name—laces up his worn-out shoes and begins his five-mile walk to work. His day starts
We are thrilled to announce our latest project, “Faces of St Albans,” which celebrates the rich diversity and addresses the social challenges within our community.
The Christopher James Hall Foundation is the trading name of The Narrators Lens CIO. Our foundation is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and empathetic society by empowering individuals through the transformative power of photography.
Registered Company No.: 13948827
Registered Charity No.: (coming soon)
Get updates on what we are doing and how you can help make a difference.