#Kenya #Nairobi #TECNO #Angélica Dass #Portraits

TECNO Launches '100 Portraits of Becoming'

In a groundbreaking project, TECNO, in collaboration with renowned visual artist Angélica Dass, has debuted the "100 Portraits of Becoming," a global portrait initiative. Over two years, this project aims to showcase the diverse narratives of individuals from around the world, starting with 20 compelling portraits from Kenya. With this initiative, TECNO seeks to challenge conventional imaging practices while enhancing the understanding and representation of humanity.

A Journey of Discovery

The "100 Portraits of Becoming" not only highlights personal stories but also emphasizes the broader theme of inclusive representation in photography. This series will progress through several countries—Kenya, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Brazil—each contributing unique perspectives to the broader narrative of what it means to be human.

Each portrait becomes a story, marking the beginning of a two-year exploration into various identities and experiences.

Celebrating Individual Narratives

The first set of portraits comes from Kenya, where individuals recount their journeys, shedding light on personal paths of growth, opportunity, and self-definition. Stories featured include those of Alex Mutua Muli, who returned home to create local opportunities through agricultural ventures, and Alexander Odhiambo, who transformed a challenging career start into a successful software business. Jelimo Cheboi's narrative breaks barriers in a male-dominated sport through her creation of GirlSkate Nairobi.

These stories exemplify the richness of individual experiences and challenge conventional definitions of success, belonging, and choice.

Angélica Dass eloquently articulates the essence of these portraits: “Meaningful encounters never arise from technology alone; they start with trust and listening.” Each subject’s willingness to share their journey invites viewers to engage deeply with their personal experiences, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of individual lives.

Emphasizing Inclusive Imaging

At the heart of this project is the mission to promote inclusive imaging practices. TECNO has long championed an ethos where imaging technologies accurately represent the diversity of human skin tones and experiences. With advancements in AI technology, the dialogue is evolving beyond mere representation, pressing forward to capture the essence of humanity with authenticity.

Jack Guo, General Manager at TECNO, emphasizes, “Truthful representation is the foundation of genuine human understanding.” This statement underscores a pivotal belief that each image plays a role in shaping societal perceptions—of who matters and how they are perceived by others.

A Global Initiative with Local Resonance

As the project transitions to the Philippines, it will feature another 20 individuals, offering a different lens through which to view cultural identities. The upcoming segment, titled “Beyond Many Labels,” will investigate the lives of solo mothers while illustrating the multifaceted nature of identity.

This evolution in narrative aims to transcend societal labels, exploring themes of growth, relationships, and everyday choices. “Kenya was an extraordinary beginning to this journey,” says Dass, expressing excitement about venturing into new territories and stories.

Conclusion: A Canvas of Humanity

By the end of this ambitious journey, "100 Portraits of Becoming" will comprise a rich tapestry of human experiences and identities. Each story, uniquely different, will contribute to a larger conversation about the possibilities of human identity and representation in an era increasingly shaped by technology. Through this project, TECNO and Dass envision a world where humanity is seen not through a singular lens but through a multitude of perspectives.

In essence, this portrait project is not merely about photography; it is a call to embrace the complexities of what it means to be human—a hundred portraits representing a hundred ways to understand humanity's vast and intertwined narratives.