As a young person of colour (POC) and a woman in the photography industry, I have experienced my fair share of hardships. Despite the growing awareness and efforts towards diversity and inclusion, the photography industry remains predominantly white and male-dominated. 

One of the most significant challenges I have faced is the need for more opportunities and representation. It is not uncommon to find myself as the only POC in a room full of photographers, whether on set, at a networking event, or in a meeting. This can be incredibly isolating and intimidating, especially for a newcomer to the industry. It is disheartening to know that there need to be more opportunities for POCs to break into the industry and those that do often face additional hurdles. 

Another challenge I have faced in my professional life is the prevalence of racial and gender bias. These biases can significantly impact the opportunities and compensation that people of colour (POCs) receive, perpetuating a cycle of underrepresentation and undervaluation. As a POC, I have personally dealt with microaggressions and stereotyping from colleagues and clients alike. For example, people have made assumptions about my technical skills or physical strength based on my race or gender or even asked me questions about my ethnicity that are irrelevant to the task. These experiences can be frustrating and demoralizing, highlighting the need for greater awareness and education about bias and diversity in the workplace.

In addition to these challenges, there is also the issue of inadequate representation in the media. While countless talented POC photographers are not always given the same platform and exposure as their white counterparts. This can make it difficult for POCs to build portfolios, gain recognition, and advance their careers. 

Despite these challenges, I am encouraged by the growing awareness and efforts toward diversity and inclusion in the industry. Organizations and initiatives like the BIPOC Photo Mentorship Program I am part of (www.bipocphotomentorship.com) are just one example of the many organizations and initiatives working to create more opportunities and support for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) in the field of photography. This program provides mentorship and networking opportunities for emerging BIPOC photographers, helping them to develop their skills, build their portfolios, and connect with industry professionals. Being part of this program has been a precious experience, and I am proud to be part of a community working to create a more inclusive and diverse photography industry. Groups like this are creating more opportunities and representation for marginalized groups. It is crucial to continue advocating for change and greater inclusivity in the industry. 

In conclusion, being a young POC woman photographer in the industry can be a challenging experience, but it is not one that I will let hold me back. I am committed to advocating for more excellent representation and diversity in the industry, and my experiences will help pave the way for future generations of photographers.

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