Words and photos by Jaitun Ara
From a young age, Jaitun Nara has been eager to help her community, which has endured several decades of difficult circumstances and ongoing genocide. She realized that photography is a powerful tool for telling the story of the Rohingya community, documenting their experiences, advocating for their rights, and showing the true conditions faced by refugees.
"This sentiment inspired me to love to be a photographer. It became my motivation to raise awareness and share our stories," Jaitun Nara said.
Before picking up a camera, Jaitun Nara's life was filled with roles that expanded her understanding of the world and sharpened her skills. She began her career as a researcher who worked in human trafficking FDMN and Pregnant Women Research. These experiences equipped her with deep analytical skills and a keen awareness of critical social issues. Later, she transitioned to facilitating Language Image and Analytical Thinking at the Centre for Peace and Justice at BRAC University. In this role, she learned her leadership, team-building, and presentation skills, and enrich the importance of clear communication, especially in English, to foster understanding among diverse communities. Additionally, her work as a community health worker at Gonoshasthaya Kendra helped her connect with individuals on a personal level, addressing their healthcare needs.
Growing up as a Rohingya woman was far from easy. Educational opportunities were limited, and girls, in particular, faced significant challenges. Discrimination, false accusations, and cultural barriers were constant obstacles, compounded by restrictions on religious freedom. Jaitun recalls how some in her community accused her of being on a secret mission when she ventured out to take photos, rather than simply capturing real-life moments. Moreover, pursuing an education as a woman came with many hurdles. Despite these difficulties, Jaitun's parents remained supportive, encouraging her to chase her dreams and continue her studies.
Jaitun Nara shared how her journey in photography began: "One day, a colleague invited me to join a photography group. I had no prior experience, but I accepted the offer with an open mind. As I observed the work of others, I began to understand the power of photography as a storytelling tool. I quickly realised that this medium could help document the struggles of my community—capturing the resilience, pain, and humanity of those living in the camps."
Driven by a desire to help her people and share their untold stories, Jaitun embarked on her photography journey. Through self-study and online resources, she honed her skills, discovering her unique voice behind the lens. Her first photographs captured the simplicity of everyday life, starting with scenes of food in her home. As her passion grew, she began exploring more complex subjects, including nature, emotional moments, Rohingya creativity, and cultural traditions.
"I was selected as a winner in the 2024 Rohingyatographer photography competition and received an award," Jaitun Nara said proudly.
Winning the Rohingyatographer photography competition was a defining moment for Jaitun. It wasn’t just about personal recognition; it was a proud achievement for her fellow women and girls. Her winning photograph, which captured a powerful moment from life in the camp, symbolized the strength, hope, and resilience of her people. It served as a reminder to the world that despite the hardships, the Rohingya community is full of life, humanity, and untold stories waiting to be shared.
Photography, however, came with its own challenges. Jaitun faced criticism, especially from those who misunderstood her intentions. One incident that stood out was when she was accused of being on a secret mission while photographing a young boy who had creatively made a toy gun from wood. Instead of being discouraged, Jaitun saw these challenges as part of her learning process. They fueled her determination to keep working as a photographer, capturing authentic stories and preserving moments that truly mattered.
Jaitun Nara hopes her photography will continue to shine a light on the Rohingya story, highlighting their resilience, struggles, and strength. She aims to challenge stereotypes and inspire empathy in her viewers, encouraging them to see the Rohingya not as victims but as individuals with their own rich narratives.
Her future vision includes creating a dedicated photography space that serves as both a gallery and a learning hub. She hopes to provide mentorship to aspiring female photographers in her community and use her platform to showcase the strength and creativity of Rohingya women.
Through her art, Jaitun continues to inspire, offering the world a glimpse into the lives of the Rohingya people, while advocating for education, equality, and opportunity for all.
The story edited by Ahtaram Shin