Nigerian Portrait

10 years ago (2013), Pastor Emeka Emeakaroha (pastor from Obergrafendorf) founded the Madonna Austrian Hospital in his home province of Ihitte Uboma in Nigeria, where there is no state health care and anyone who needs help has to pay for it. Once a year, a medical team from Austria travels to this hospital for 1-2 weeks and provides "free" care to patients in need who would otherwise not be able to afford it. I was present as a photographer during this aid mission and would like to introduce you to this great project through my pictures.

At the Madonna Austrian Hospital I met people who needed help - be it as patients, companions or simply as visitors who gathered in the hospital to support each other and exchange news. Their stories were as diverse as their faces, and it was an honor to see their eyes filled with gratitude, hope and confidence.

The depth of human experience is reflected in each individual portrait. The wrinkles on their faces speak of life, of challenges overcome and of dreams that have not yet been given up. Her eyes radiate an indescribable strength, even in the midst of difficulties and pain.

It wasn't just pictures I took; they were moments of connection and understanding. Through my camera I was able to capture dignity in adversity and hope in despair. Each picture tells a story that extends far beyond the boundaries of the hospital - a story of humanity and resilience.

The portraits from the Madonna Austrian Hospital are not just artistic images of people; They are evidence of a community that sticks together despite all obstacles and strengthens each other. They remind us that even in the darkest hours, the light of humanity shines unwaveringly. This experience has deepened my understanding of the power of photography. She taught me that true beauty lies not just in perfection, but in the authenticity of human expression. These portraits are more than just pictures - they are a legacy of humanity and hope that I am proud to share with the world.