Let Her Dream: Episode 001
Let Her Dream: Episode 001 - Manisha, 18 - Originally posted: 03,08,19
I've pushed this idea away over and over, telling myself I do not belong in this space. Then I realized, this isn't about me - it's about HER!
So I decided I’m going to start sharing recorded “interviews” or what I hope can feel more like casual converstations with girls facing adversity in different areas of the world.
MY HOPE
To connect the visual side of my work to the stories behind them. The stories that have continued molding my passion for this work. I thought if other people could hear these girl’s voices, how could their hearts not rip open? Or if anything, their perspective not be broadened?
EPISODE 001
↓
The first episode of Let Her Dream is with Manisha, 18.
She was born in a rural village outside Ongole, India.
This first series from India is highlighting my Trek for Girl’s Campaign that is raising money for our partner’s at @covenenatchildrenshomes.
100% of the money raised is going toward girl’s like Manisha to help her continue her studies. Or as I’d like to say... to help #LetHerDream
Lakshmi, 15 and Manisha, 18
MY HEART
The reason I love this type of work so so much, is the way it opens me up to the world. I get to laugh and play with these precious girls, listen to their personal stories and share with the world how incredibly special they are.
Manisha trying not to laugh. She believes she should stand and not smile.
THOUGHTS
I learn something new with each interview and overall my biggest takeaway is that deep down no matter where we are born or raised... Children need to feel loved. The girls look like princesses as they're dressed in their colorful outfits, but each one carries a past that is hard to grasp. You will hear Manisha cry tears for missing her Mother in this episode.
Which is why I'm partnering with CCH, for our Trek for Girls Campaign. They not only provide loving family oriented homes for these girls, but a support system they will have for the rest of their lives.
WHY DREAMS?
I believe all young girls should have the ability to dream. When I asked the girls what they dreamt of, they would answer with what career they hoped to pursue. Which is admirable and definitely can be a dream, but dreams of a little girl from the western world are different.
When I look back at my own dreams I realize how privileged I was to have them. I was a little girl “dreaming” of becoming Indiana Jones or playing with animals at Sea World every day.
Every dream evolving throughout the different stages of my life; pushing me to find the path that was unique to me and my passions. I guess…just like this podcast?
I want young girls to be able to dream of what they WANT to become,
instead of what their situation might force them to become.
TARA SHUPE
Tara Shupe is a Humanitarian Photographer and Video Storyteller, constantly traveling with a camera attached to the hip and a notebook in her pocket. With over 10 years of experience in the field, Tara approaches each story intimately with a hope for inspiring others to think beyond their comfort zone.
