Niger: Water, Food & Beds
I traveled to Niger in 2013 with a team from my former church, Grace Chapel, to photograph the work being done through well repair, health and hygiene training, schools, and an orphanage. At the time, Niger ranked last on the United Nations Human Development Index, and much of the country was facing extreme poverty, political instability, and the harsh realities of living in a landscape that is eighty percent Sahara Desert. Even with these challenges, the people I met showed a remarkable resilience and a strength that came from family, community, and a deep sense of connection. It was a trip that opened my eyes, challenged my assumptions, and reminded me how much photography can be used to tell stories that matter.
First Impressions of Niamey
Our team stayed in Niamey, the capital city, and even there it felt like everything was covered in sand. The road outside our guest house was made entirely of sand, which made it clear how close the desert really was. There were paved roads and a few modern facilities, but they existed alongside neighborhoods where people were fighting daily just to survive. What struck me most was the spirit of the people. Even in difficult circumstances, so many of them greeted us with smiles, kindness, and a warmth that made us feel welcome.
Planting the Miracle Tree: Moringa
Another project we supported was planting moringa, a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree that is making a significant difference in many developing countries. Moringa leaves and seed pods are packed with nutrients and can be used for cooking, water purification, and even herbal medicine. Seeing how something as small as a sapling could help create long-term change gave me a new appreciation for sustainable development work.
A Life-Changing Visit to the Orphanage
The moment that impacted me most was an unexpected visit to Orphelinat le Bon Samaritan, an orphanage that had lost much of its funding the year before. As soon as I stepped inside, I was struck by the needs that were so clearly visible. Out of the sixty children living there, most were sleeping on tile floors or sharing a few worn-down mattresses. I saw only one usable bed in the entire building. Photographing the children was both heartbreaking and hopeful. Their smiles were genuine, and their energy filled the rooms, but the need was impossible to ignore.
When I returned home, I felt compelled to help. My business, Elevate Photography, matched any donations that came in, and together with the generosity of our friends, families, and clients, we raised the full $6,240 needed to purchase thirty bunk beds and sixty mattresses. The money was sent in March of 2014, and knowing that each child now has a bed where they can sleep safely and comfortably is something I will never forget.
Health and Hygiene Training
We also documented health and hygiene training sessions that were being offered to women in the villages. Many of them shared how past classes had reduced illness in their families and helped them better care for their children. Witnessing their eagerness to learn and pass on this knowledge to their communities was inspiring. These were simple practices that had the power to dramatically improve daily life.
Repairing Wells and Supporting Villages
One of the main purposes of our trip was helping repair damaged wells. Many villages rely on a single working well for all of their drinking and cooking water, so restoring access to clean water was life changing for entire communities. Photographing this work gave me a chance to see the immediate impact it had on families, especially women and children who often walk long distances to get water each day. Hearing the gratitude in their voices made every long, hot day more than worth it.
A Trip That Stays With You
My time in Niger reminded me of the power of community, the importance of compassionate work, and the impact even small efforts can have when people come together. It challenged me emotionally and stretched me creatively as a photographer. Most of all, it taught me that stories of hope can rise from the hardest circumstances.
If this kind of travel photography inspires you and you want to develop your own storytelling skills, you can learn more about my travel photography coaching or explore upcoming workshops and tours. I would love to help you grow as a photographer and discover the stories waiting for you around the world.