SEOUL, August 09 (AJU PRESS) - Aditi Kumar, a 17-year-old high school student from India, has partnered with a child welfare facility in Seoul to teach elementary and middle school girls the art of photography. Over an eight-week project, Aditi worked closely with the girls, culminating in a photo exhibition at India House, the residence of the Indian Ambassador to South Korea, near central Seoul on Friday.
The exhibition featured the girls' photos, reflecting their love and friendship. Many of the girls, who have lived at the facility since infancy, shared laughter as they admired each other's work. Some images captured candid moments like students napping or snapping selfies.
Aditi, affectionately called "Eonni" (Korean for older sister) by the girls, described the project as "a labor of love." She said, "Through photography lessons, I was really trying to form a bond with the girls, and I think the girls and I will definitely carry and cherish the experience and good memories for the rest of our lives."
To fund the project, Aditi launched the "Happy Seoul" initiative, selling eco-bags printed with her own photos. The funds allowed her to purchase compact digital cameras for the girls. Looking ahead, she plans to raise more funds to buy professional cameras for her Korean sisters. "Now, I plan to start another fundraising project to purchase professional cameras for Sundukwon girls," Aditi said with a smile.
As Aditi prepares for university entrance exams, she expressed concern about whether she can continue the project. "I don't know if I am ready to let go of the project," she said, adding, "I really hope that we are able to continue this project and bring a good impact on the girls."
The project began when Ms. Surabhi Amit Kumar, the spouse of H.E. Amit Kumar, the Indian Ambassador to South Korea, and Aditi's mother, visited the Sundukwon Child Welfare Center earlier this year. After discussions with the center’s head, the ambassadress suggested that Aditi share her passion for photography with the girls.
"I've had the pleasure of witnessing our plans come to life and had the privilege of working with these very beautiful girls," Ms. Surabhi Amit Kumar told guests at the exhibition's opening. She also observed how her daughter helped the girls find their voices and see beauty in their surroundings. Ambassador Kumar said that the photo exhibition is his way of expressing gratitude for the friendship and consideration of the Korean people.
A 13-year-old student, speaking on condition of anonymity, shared that it was her first time using a camera. "Aditi is more like an older sister to us than a teacher. I really enjoyed spending time with her. I think we have formed a strong bond," she said. "I especially enjoyed taking photographs of beautiful scenery. I think my experience in photography will be something I can cherish for a long, long time."
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
