humanityashore.com

By Dushiyanthini Kanagasabapathipillai

“Photojournalism provokes conversation and though which all good journalism should do. The exhibition provides an excellent teaching opportunity, fostering discussion about how we cover events of our time the need of society while talking about the profession and craft of journalism”~ Michael Parks (April 24, 1940-), American Actor and Singer

The youth of Poonochchimunai have taken a new turn in their lives today. They have had their maiden photo exhibition in their village. The 12 member Photo Voice team has undergone a professional training in Photo Journalism for one year, which was provided by Terre des hommes. The youth were trained professionally to handle still cameras, light, angles, composition, capture various moments, write caption and make a photo journal.

Five villages from Batticaloa district and five villages from Ampara district were chosen and the youth were trained. The villages are namely Kalkuda, Kaluwankerny, Paalaiyadiththoona, Poonochchimunai and Puthukkudiyiruppu from Batticaloa district Kaaraitheevu, Ninthavur, Oluvil, Periyaneelaavanai and Saainthamruthu from Ampara district.

The photos taken by the youth in Poonochchimunai were displayed at today’s exhibition. The have highlighted the need to upgrade the basic infrastructure for Poonochchimunai and self-employed women in the village. The photo voice team of Poonochchimunai has members from Muslim community. Photo Exhibition by the youth from Poonochchimunai was held on April 28th 2010 at the Early Childhood Children’s Play Activity Centre, which was organized by Terre des homes.

Poonochchimunai is situated in Batticaloa district between Navatkuda and Kaathaankudy. It has a total population of 450 people (130 families). There are 155 males and 196 females currently live in Poonochchimunai according to the Grama Sevaka official. Most of the men are fishermen and some work as day labourers.

Poonochchimunai Photo Voice Team Members:

M.A.C.M.Riyana, A.L.Asmiya, M.A.C.M.Rinosa, M.S.Naseela, M.F.Fatheela, R.F.Fasmiya, B.S.Nafeera, S.Safeeka, G.M.Ithrus, M.I.Habeeba, M.Musammil.

At the main entrance

Poonochchimunai photo Voice Team

Poonochcimunai has been in existence since 1850 according to historical documents

A kid is attracted by another camera which is focused on him

Women make handicraft in this village

Map of Poonochchimunai

Tsunami tidal wave hit this village in 2004

The first school was started in 1975

Stakeholders in Poonochchimunai

This small village was destroyed by the cyclone in 1978

A member of the Photo Voice Team is seen capturing the moments of their exhibition

Children are seen taking a closer look at the photos on display
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