What is the 'Breaking barriers. North West.' Project?
Breaking Barriers: North West is a powerful ongoing project that explores and challenges the socio-economic barriers that often limit access to sports. This project highlights the efforts of individuals, communities, and organizations working to break down these barriers, fostering greater diversity, inclusion, and positive representation within the sporting world.
Through this initiative, I have had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse range of inspiring and talented individuals, each of whom is creating meaningful change in their respective sports communities.
By sharing these stories through my photography, I aim to not only raise awareness but also inspire action. This project seeks to create a dialogue about the importance of inclusivity and the need to ensure everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to participate, succeed and feel the benefits of sports. My hope is that these images will spark conversations, drive change, and ultimately contribute to a more diverse and inclusive future for sports everywhere.
How has the project progressed from its original form?
The project originally began as a focused exploration of the equestrian world, specifically examining the challenges faced by individuals from minority backgrounds within this traditionally exclusive sport. The initial goal was to highlight the underrepresentation of people of colour in equestrianism, aiming to shift the narrative and increase both media visibility and diversity within the sport.
By addressing these barriers head-on, I sought to break down the narrow stereotypes associated with equestrianism and encourage a broader, more inclusive participation in the field.
To bring this vision to life, I created a photographic Zine that spotlighted the stories of five young equestrians. The Zine serves as both a celebration of their efforts and a call to action for greater representation in equestrian sports, inspiring others from marginalized backgrounds to see themselves in the sport and feel encouraged to pursue their own aspirations.
Breaking Barriers. Equestrian.
The Main project
Zine
Before moving on to the wider world of sport i made a zine focused on the equestrian industry and the struggles / underrepresentation's of individuals from minority backgrounds within this.
Breaking Barriers. North west.
The Main project
in progress...
This project is ongoing, with the final outcome being a photographic book. It will explore the communities, organizations, and individuals breaking through the socio-economic barriers in sport. From Para Ice Hockey, youth groups and LGBT inclusive clubs..