Behind the lens, photography has always been more than just capturing images for me—it’s about preserving emotions, telling untold stories, and uncovering the depth of human connection. Fields of Resilience was born from this perspective, a collection of moments that shaped my journey in Uganda and the lessons they left behind. Each image in this book is more than just a snapshot; it offers a glimpse behind the lens into resilience, strength, and the unbreakable spirit of the people and places I encountered.
A Story in Every Frame
Curating Fields of Resilience has been as much about storytelling as it was about photography. Every image carries a deeper meaning—a reflection of the beauty, hardships, and hope I witnessed.
One of the first images that inspired this project was “Path of Light,” a golden sunset illuminating a winding road in Uganda. It felt symbolic of my journey—uncertain at times, but filled with promise. The image became a metaphor for the people I met, who continue to move forward despite the obstacles in their path.
Another defining moment was capturing the tree-planting ceremony at the Community Permaculture Resource Center. As we planted 110 trees alongside volunteers and community members, I saw firsthand the power of small actions creating lasting impact. Each tree represented more than reforestation—it symbolized hope, resilience, and the strength of collective effort.
Moments of Resilience
Some of my favorite photographs in Fields of Resilience capture the raw strength of nature. I was drawn to the silent march of elephants, their steady presence embodying wisdom and endurance. Similarly, the image of Murchison Falls, with water roaring through the cliffs, felt like an exclamation point in nature’s story of resilience.
But it wasn’t just the landscapes and wildlife that told stories—it was the people. I will never forget the moment I photographed students at the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement, their eyes filled with both uncertainty and hope. Their resilience in the face of adversity was the very essence of this book.
One particularly moving experience was my visit to Saviour Junior School, where children danced and laughed despite the hardships they faced. That joy, so vibrant and unshaken, became a defining theme in the book—resilience is not just about surviving; it’s about thriving in the face of challenges.
The Power of Connection
This journey was deeply personal for me. Through photography, I was able to share stories of people who have shaped my perspective on life. One of the greatest honors was receiving my Empaako name, Akiiki, meaning “one who upholds national, community, and family interests with great love, care, kindness, and honesty.” This name was not just a title; it was a reflection of my mission—to use storytelling to build bridges and connect cultures.
The most profound connection I experienced was when Ignatius, my friend and colleague in Agri Planet Africa, named his daughter after me: Janelle Africa Ahumuza. That moment solidified the impact of our shared work, proving that relationships formed through meaningful collaboration can transcend borders and last generations.
Beyond the Lens
Fields of Resilience is more than a coffee table book—it is an invitation to see the world differently, to embrace the beauty in resilience, and to recognize the strength in human connection. Every photograph in this book represents a lesson I’ve learned along the way, a reminder that even in the face of hardship, there is always light to be found.
I hope this book inspires others to see the power of storytelling and the responsibility we have to share the voices of those whose stories might otherwise go untold.