Black Women Photographers x Nikon Grants

Meet Our Third Class

#BWPxNikon

🖤💛

#BWPxNikon 🖤💛

  • Grace Ekpu - Lagos, Nigeria

    The project: Through the lens of personal stories, Bridging Pain illuminates the resilience and fortitude of individuals grappling with sickle cell anemia. The documentary explores the disparities in healthcare access across different regions, with a focus on Africa and the diaspora. The common thread that binds these diverse experiences is pain. Through observational storytelling and interviews, the film explores the stark contrasts in healthcare access, survival strategies, life choices, and the profound impact of this debilitating disease on relationships. It also underscores how access to advanced medical care and support systems can significantly enhance the quality of life for those living with sickle cell anemia.

  • Recipient 1: Tiana Duarte-Kargbo

    Recipient 2: Gabrielle Woodland

    Recipient 3: Mimi Ezinne

    Recipient 4: Zahreh Barry

    Recipient 5: Iyana Esters

  • Recipient 1: Phylecia Jones

    Recipient 2: Sage Gee

    Recipient 3: Rebekah Gaillard

    Recipient 4: Aspen Evans

    Recipient 5: Lo Braden

  • Louisa Wells

    Z 8 and 24-70mm f/2.8 and 85mm f/1.8

    Sarah-Elizabeth Atunrase

    Z 7II and 28-75mm f/2.8

    Andriana Ortiz

    1Z 6II 28-75mm f/2.8 and 35mm f/1.8

    Nija Howard

    Z fc + 16-50mm Lens Kit

    Ashleigh Sterling

    Z 30 One Lens Kit

  • "I am overwhelmed with joy about this grant to produce my documentary film project. Also, this is the first time I have personally gotten a grant of this kind. I was positive and I took a leap of faith to apply. While waiting, I continued developing the project and decided I could make a ‘short’ however way I could, because I would not give up with or without a grant. Sickle cell disease affects us on the African continent and our people in the diaspora. It is very personal to me as someone with sickle cell traits from the country with the highest cases and where access to good healthcare is a huge problem. The support to actualise this project is everything! I am grateful to the Black Women Photographers team and Nikon for finding the project worthy of support, especially in these challenging times of economic and political uncertainty. Thank you so much for lifting black women creatives like me up. I am honoured, and I cannot wait to make good use of this grant. My year has been made!"

    Grace Ekpu

  • "The first thing I said when I got off the call when I found out I received this grant was "Wow, someone else believes in me." I honestly was not expecting to receive this grant even though *I* believe in the project with all my heart and I really wanted to make it happen. I think I have become so used to making things happen on my own that I set that expectation for this project as well. It really is so surreal to realize someone else believes in a project like this and believes I can make it happen. I'm so honored to have been chosen and I cannot wait to bring it to life. Thank you BWP for believing in me."

    Tiana Duarte-Kargbo

  • "It's very special to ruminate on an idea for months, even years and finally see it come to life with help and support from my community. I'm grateful to Black Women Photographers and Nikon for seeing and believing in my vision and allowing me to feel seen. Chance favors the prepared mind, and I'm excited to finally explore the depths of my project with this grant and share my ideas, creations and stories with the world."

    Mimi Ezinne

  • "When I started my journey in media, I did it with a purpose – to tell the stories of invisible, overlooked, and undervalued communities. Thanks to Black Women Photographers and NIKON, I can shine a light on more of the people and stories that matter to those who look like us, who value us, and who support us emphatically."

    Zahreh Barry

  • "Many words and emotions can be expressed and I want to offer my gratitude to BWP for seeing my magic. Receiving this grant allows me the freedom to create, research, and expand my artistic horizons as a photographer. My work is bigger than itself, it’s intentional, it's preservation, and knowledge for us to see ourselves in our own stories! Keep on, keepin on!"

    Iyana Esters

  • "When I saw that BWP was launching a few years ago, I instantly knew I wanted to belong in this community. Over the years, I saw news about the BWP + Nikon grant and the encouragement to apply, but I assumed I was too much of a novice to be considered or even apply. So, imagine my surprise when I was told I won the grant after finally submitting my name. Winning this grant is so unexpected while extremely exciting at the same time. As I go deeper into my craft of landscape and travel photography, I will have a boost in securing the necessary gear while journeying outdoors and getting the resources needed to excel in creating epic and awe-inspiring images from my travels."

    Phylecia Jones

  • "Winning this grant was a turning point for me. When BWP called with the news, the team mentioned that my work hadn't gone unnoticed, which meant the world to me. For years, I felt like a hidden gem, pouring my heart into my art without recognition. Countless rejections for grants and representation filled me with doubt. I was determined to keep creating, even if it meant sacrificing resources. Just as I was ready to push forward regardless, this grant arrived. The timing couldn't have been better. Having recently moved to LA to pursue photography full-time, the financial support came as a true blessing. I'm incredibly grateful for this opportunity and committed to using the grant to its fullest potential. With newfound wisdom and resources, I'm excited to take my art to the next level."

    Sage Gee

  • "When I learned that I would be receiving a BWP x Nikon grant, the timing could not have been more perfect. I was neck deep in photography projects, preparing to relocate to a new city, and working a full-time job. This grant gave me the financial boost I needed to transfer my business to a new market. But beyond that, it gave me a much needed confidence boost. At a time when I was feeling overwhelmed, I was reminded that my hard work and passion aren’t in vain. I’m so thankful to BWP for seeing me—and seeing so many other Black women—and working tirelessly to provide us with the same access, resources, and education as our peers."

    Rebekah Gaillard

  • “Some say that the third time's the charm and that definitely was true with applying to this grant! I almost didn't apply after not making the final rounds for the last two years, and something told me just to try. Over the past year, I have been learning to put myself out there and let others tell me no instead of blocking my blessings and telling myself no in advance. I'm so grateful that I can finally achieve my dream of photographing the Northern Lights in Iceland thanks to Black Women Photographers x Nikon grant.”

    Aspen Evans

  • “I became a member of BWP in 2021. “Since then, I’ve shot for The Washington Post and have had work shown in a group exhibition. In both of those instances, I was contacted through the BWP directory. Being part of a community of photographers who look like me has been such a beautiful experience! From photographer meet-ups to virtual forums, so many resources and information are shared happily from seasoned and new photographers alike. Receiving this grant will help me update my equipment in order to continue walking in my purpose as a portrait photographer. Thank you forever to Black Women Photographers + Nikon! I’ve been applying to this grant since the very first cycle. So take it from me: if you’ve been applying too, don’t give up!”

    Lo Braden

  • "All I can say is wow! - BWP has been a life changer in so many ways. I am beyond grateful for this community, for the connections I’ve created since I’ve joined, the encouragement and empowerment I’ve received and this opportunity. Thank you BWP for changing the lives of so many of us across the country!"

    Sarah-Elizabeth Atunrase

  • “Photography equipment can be quite expensive. Despite this, I have always made do with whatever I had. I believe in paying it forward, so I give away any equipment I no longer use to someone who will put it to good use, all for free. Over the years, I have given away cameras, lenses, lights, and more with the hope of helping others, and believing that someday someone else would help me in return. To my surprise, I won a Nikon Z6ii and 35mm and 28-75mm lenses to go along with it! I have wanted this camera for a while but have not been able to afford it. This has been a true blessing for me. I will now be able to advance my career in ways I previously thought would not be possible. Thank you so much BWP and Nikon!”

    Andriana Ortiz

  • “I am so honored that BWP x Nikon chose me as one of their recipients for a Nikon mirrorless camera. My late grandfather was the most influential person in my life, and he introduced me to Nikon. Since he gave me his old Nikon cameras, I have been shooting Nikon gear ever since. Receiving the new mirrorless gear from Nikon is a full-circle moment for me.”

    Ashleigh Sterling

  • “Receiving the Nikon Z8 Kit was a gift. I have been needing to purchase new gear for a while and wasn’t quite sure how it was going to happen. This has encouraged me to remember that my story and journey as a photographer does matter and that there are many people along the way who are willing to help. Thank you to Nikon and Black Women Photographers for seeing me. I am already excited for the work I’ll create with this new kit!”

    Louisa Wells

Meet Our Second Class

#BWPxNikon

🖤💛

#BWPxNikon 🖤💛

  • Tiffany Alexander - El Paso, Texas

  • Recipient 1: Alexandra Obochi - Abuja, Nigeria

    Recipient 2: Destinee Condison - Kingston, Jamaica

    Recipient 3: Jay Gash - Oakland, California

    Recipient 4: Rhoda Tchokokam - Paris, France

    Recipient 5: Sontenish Myers - New York, New York

  • Recipient 1: Danielle Alakija - Vuda, Fiji and London, UK

    Recipient 2: Mandisha Nicole - Richmond, Virginia

    Recipient 3: Jazzmine M. Taylor - San Diego, California

    Recipient 4: Ryla Dapremont - Detroit, Michigan

    Recipient 5: Tasha Burton - St. Louis, Missouri

  • Tonya Caver - Baltimore, Maryland

    Z 6II and 28-75mm f/2.8 Kit

    Edwina Hay - New York, New York

    Z 7II and 28-75mm f/2.8 Kit

    Andréa Benton - Cincinnati, Ohio and the United Kingdom

    Z 6II and 24-70mm f/4S Kit + 35mm f/1.8S Kit

    Amanda Davis - Washington, DC

    Z fc + 16-50mm Kit

  • "Receiving this grant has been a life-changing experience for me as a photographer. It has allowed me to pursue my passion for capturing the stories of black motherhood in a way that I never thought possible. With this grant, I have been able to dedicate myself fully to this project, and to explore the challenges and wisdoms of black motherhood in a way that I hope will inspire and empower others! I am excited to see where this project takes me, and to continue exploring the stories of black motherhood in new and creative ways."

    Tiffany Alexander

  • "It still feels very surreal to me that I was selected. After my first time applying, I just gave up; my second application was one I put my heart into, but I was sure I wasn't going to get it. I'm very grateful to have been picked as my project is one I've been battling to create since I began the project in 2021 due to a lack of funds and resources. Words cannot truly express my joy in knowing I'd finally be able to bring my creations to life; thank you, BWP, this is the best community. Thank you, Nikon USA, for continuously uplifting Black women, especially ones like me, Black, Nigerian and queer. I cannot wait to create magic."

    Alexa Obochi

  • "I was in the process of saving up for a new mirrorless camera when I learned that Black Women Photographers and Nikon were giving me a Nikon Z7II and 28-75mm f/2.8 lens. I feel like I'm still processing this unbelievable news! I am extremely thankful to both BWP and Nikon for selecting me as a recipient of this grant. I've been shooting with Nikon DSLRs since 2006 (shout out to the Nikon D50 and D200!) and thanks to this grant, I can now go completely mirrorless and make my camera bag lighter much earlier than I anticipated. This gives me the ability to put the money I have saved so far toward digitizing my old 35mm film images to publish online and sign up for a flash photography course in May. I absolutely cannot wait to create new work with this brand new kit, and I promise that I will put it to very good use. Thank you!"

    Edwina Hay

  • "I'm so honored and surprised to be a grantee! I almost didn't apply at all, thinking that the photos I took with my phone or with my inexpensive film cameras wouldn't be good enough. But the day I applied, my mother and sister had both taken time to drive me around to make pictures, and I thought, if they're willing to believe in my art, why shouldn't I believe in it, too? I'm so grateful to have all this support from my family and from BWP, and I can't wait to get shooting with my gorgeous new Nikon Z fc!"

    Amanda Davis

  • "Sometimes we need milestone mirrors to remind us to keep going. For me, the BWP x Nikon grant did just that! It's given me such a great feeling of empowerment, visibility and opportunity. Creation often costs, and with my grant winnings I'll be able to kickstart a new photo studio space and cover business expenses. I never had the courage to apply for a grant before, and here's what taking a chance looks like. So honored to be a recipient. Black women keep going!"

    Mandisha Nicole

  • "My project is 50% completed, but in order to meet my goal of photographing 10-15 subjects, I need to travel to multiple cities. As my deadline approaches, the opportunity seemed out of reach. Thankfully, the BWPxNikon Grant has made this travel possible, and I can meet more courageous subjects willing to have their stories heard and their images captured.”

    Tasha Burton

  • "Let me start with this: I honestly didn't expect to be selected. I applied for the BWP x Nikon grant last year and wasn't selected, and I was sure it was because my work wasn't that good. I never received any type of photography training, and I only used the camera on my cell phone so such a novice like myself would never be worthy of such an opportunity, right? Nah. Dead wrong. Despite all of the negative self-talk, I applied again. And, sure enough, I was selected! It's easy to allow all of the noise to make you think you aren't worthy of great things, and to disqualify yourself before you even began. Don't sell yourself short because you'll find that there are people who believe in what you're doing, so always believe in yourself."

    Andréa Benton

  • "I STILL can't believe I won! I have never ever owned a piece of new camera equipment.I no longer have to rent better equipment for my high profile gigs. Winning the Z6ii is life changing. And to top it off it came with a dope lens too? Someone please pinch me because I am still dreaming. Thank you so much Nikon USA and Black Women Photographers for seeing the best in me and giving me this opportunity to propel my career! This will open the doors to amazingly creative projects and adventures. My gratitude is infinite and my excitement is uncontrollable!!"

    Tonya Caver

  • "I am so happy to have been awarded a Black Women Photographers x Nikon grant! It is a powerful reminder that my voice and perspective are valued in the world of photography and that people and organizations are committed to helping me succeed. With the help of this grant, I look forward to continuing to hone my craft, capture beautiful moments, and inspire others through my work. I am deeply grateful for the support and recognition this grant represents."

    Jazzmine Taylor

  • "I can genuinely say that the day I received the phone call informing me I was a grantee has been the best of the year so far! To have someone believe in your work is something special, and to have them believe enough to support it is something spectacular. A million thank yous to BWP and Nikon USA for supporting this project, and using their support and influence to uplift black and brown voices everyday!"

    Danielle Alakija

  • "I am both floored and honored to be a Black Women Photographers Nikon Grantee this year. There is an inherent urgency in a project that focuses on documenting the Elders in my life. This financial support will accelerate the most central part of this process: visiting, interviewing, and capturing their experiences and way of life. Thank you BWP for the gift of more time with my elders, and to tell their stories. It is my hope that the work can be an offering to my community —a roadmap or looking glass to those who witness it. Archiving is activism."

    Sontenish Myers

  • "Thank you Black Women Photographers and Nikon USA for seeing me, believing in my vision, and creating opportunities like this. It’s such a tremendous honor to be recognized and be in the company of so many other amazing Black women and storytellers. I never could have imagined that I’d be getting support to fund a photography project close to my heart but I’m so glad I decided to apply for the BWP x Nikon again, it feels like such an affirming full circle moment. Little me is very proud and excited for what’s to come. I can’t wait to get started on my project!"

    Jay Gash

Meet Our First Class

#BWPxNikon

🖤💛

#BWPxNikon 🖤💛

  • Tiffany Sutton - St. Louis, Missouri

  • Toni Shaw - Greensboro, North Carolina

    Wanjiku Gitau - Nairobi, Kenya

    Zhané GayByrd - Oakland, California

    Clara Watt - Geneva, Switzerland

  • Nicky Quamina-Woo - New York and Southeast Asia

    DeLovie Kwagala - Kampala, Uganda 

    Ornelle Chimi - Washington, DC

    Melissa Bunni Ellen - New York, New York

    Karene Jean-Baptiste - Montreal, Canada

  • Z 5 and 24-50mm lens

    Rukie Jumah - Abuja, Nigeria

    Z 6 and 24-70mm f/4 S lens

    Inari Briana - Atlanta, Georgia

    Z 6II and 24-70mm f/4S kit + 35mm f/1.8S lens

    Jamie Walker - Cincinnati, Ohio

    Z 7II and 24-70mm f/4S kit + 85mm f/1.8S + 35mm f/1.8S lens

    Ramona Hernandez - Atlanta, Georgia

  • "My first international residency in my exploration of myself and Black women in Northern European countries was wonderful, impactful, and serene. I’m so grateful to Black Women Photographers + Nikon; it made me into a better woman and a better photographer. If you are considering applying to the Black Women Photographers + Nikon Grant, DO IT. The experience has been overwhemly wonderful. I know it sounds corny, but always bet on yourself."

    Tiffany

  • "Visual creation isn't just about projects, it's about the whole state of being of the creator. Nikon X BWP helped me obtain a new tool that would have taken me months to save for, which allowed me more mental and spiritual capacity to work on other areas of my life as a visual creator. That's why I'm thankful for the open nature of this grant. It provided the support I needed to suit the specific ways I desired to grow.”

    Bunni

  • "Being the recipient of the Nikon Z 6II is something out of my wildest dreams. I am humbled and honored that Polly Irungu, the grant committee, and Nikon saw something valuable in my journey as a photographer. There are no words for the depth of my gratitude for this community of Black Women Photographers; To be uplifted by them is a privilege I won't take for granted."

    Jamie

  • “The BWPxNikon grant has been a dream come true— seriously!! The grant has allowed me to fund a project I dreamed of seeing through for years. I have been able to buy new equipment, studio time, and travel to participants to alleviate any burden from them."

    Zhané

  • "I used most of the funds I received to get my dream zoom lens which is a 24-70mm. Honestly, I haven't taken it off my camera since I bought it. It gives me the versatility I need for most of the projects I shoot. This project for example, was set around celebrating the triumphs of a Black Belgian dancer and influencer during women's history month. I love the quality I was able to get with these images thanks to my new lens."

    Ornelle

  • "I had gotten a fellowship that only catered to the production of the work, which also wasn't enough, and I found myself scraping around to sustain me and the project all at once. When I won the $3000, I was ecstatic! I have applied to alot of grants and never really got a chance to actually win, so this really made me feel seen and had, and because of how sensitive the queer work I do in the mostly homophobic countries, this was an affirmation that we can also make it."

    DeLovie

  • "When I tell you I am so grateful for BWP and Nikon… you’d have no idea! Because of their generous contribution, I have been able to land the jobs I have always wanted to land. When I was first gifted the Nikon, I was so excited but also nervous because I had no idea what I wanted to shoot. However, it didn’t take long for my creativity to soar. The crispiness in my images was superb, and I never wanted to put my camera down. I created so much that I landed opportunities with SavageXFenty, Meta (Facebook), and even Nikon themselves!"

    Inari