What is so rewarding about working on a long-term project, such as FGM?
"Working on long-term projects enables a much wider understanding of a topic. It also enables you to continue to document a person, community or phenomenon and witness how things are evolving. I have been focusing on local activists in my FGM project, so I'm interested in how things are pushed forward by local change-makers. Many have become friends, who I have visited many times. That's the most rewarding thing – seeing how activism is changing people one by one."
When do you choose to shoot in black and white versus colour?
"I fell in love with black and white, and learned to think in black and white when it comes to light, so, for me, black and white is much more natural. On the other hand, I live in a colour world. So when digital cameras came in, I also became fascinated with colour. For each project, the style selects itself. I make the decision by observing which style best suits the story. The first FGM work I did in Kenya, where I was documenting the actual ritual, I decided to do in black and white, so it would be easier to approach and also more peaceful. I didn't want to shock with colour."
What motivates you in your work and in covering the subjects that you choose?
"Understanding humanity, sharing stories of change and bringing awareness to as many countries and cultures as possible. Many human rights and violation issues are issues for everyone. If you are a man, for example, you should still care about and take action on women's rights. These things cannot be achieved alone, it requires an international movement in which people do their part. The same applies to the climate crisis. When will we collectively start defending the rights of nature as we defend human rights? That is our next common goal."
Where do you think the line between journalism and activism lies?
"I have always been an activist. I was an activist before I was a photographer, so it's a big part of my personality, motivation and inspiration. But professionally, you have to put aside your own beliefs, aims and remedies when you are working on a topic. It's extremely important to be responsible in photojournalism, and show many aspects, angles and perspectives. In activism, you have to get to the core of the issue. It's not only being for or against something, but trying to understand it. My activism is not to change minds in a predetermined direction, but to provoke discussion. I don't see a conflict between journalism and activism because they are aiming for the same purpose. Sharing stories and information forces us to ask critical questions and identify bridges through which we can create more acceptance, solidarity and understanding."
What piece of Canon kit can you not live without, and why?
"A 24-70mm lens has been with me since the very beginning of my career, and I rely on it like an old friend. I love the versatility of the Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8L IS USM: it allows me to capture wide scenes but also get close to people and their stories. For portraits, I especially love working between 50 and 70mm. The image quality and low-light performance are excellent. After all these years, it remains the lens I trust the most."
What else could we discover in your kitbag that helps you elevate your work?
"A notebook and pen. In my documentary work, I always carry a notebook to write down observations, details about the people I photograph, and conversations and interviews with them. I love handwriting, and I value the time I give to listening and recording someone's story, often before I even pick up my camera. For me, photography begins long before the first image is taken."