As a Biotechnologist with a Ph.D., I never imagined that my life would take a turn towards the world of photography and filmmaking. My journey began with an accidental entry into the world of theater during my first year at university. Over the years, my passion for the arts grew, leading me to explore visual storytelling through the lens of a camera. In this article, I’ll share my unique journey, which not only allowed me to grow as an individual but also inspired other women in Tunisia to follow their passions.

1. A Theatrical Beginning

During my first year at university, I joined a professional theater group by chance. This unexpected encounter with the performing arts quickly turned into a profound passion. I spent several years as an actress, theater assistant, playwright, and even performed in a one-woman show. This experience laid the foundation for my love of storytelling, which would later manifest in my pursuit of photography and filmmaking.

2. A Wedding That Changed Everything

When my cousin’s wedding approached, I knew it was a unique opportunity to witness Amazigh traditions, such as traditional food, clothing, and rituals. The wedding was a phenomenal 7-day event, inviting the entire community to celebrate. Having lost my paternal grandmother the year before, I felt a deep sadness, knowing that some of these rituals would disappear with her. I decided to immortalize these moments and film the entire wedding, including capturing the essence of my maternal grandmother. With no prior expertise, I enlisted the help of a friend to support me technically.

3. Diving into Filmmaking and Photography

After filming the wedding, I spent countless hours editing the footage but found myself unsatisfied with the results. This dissatisfaction inspired me to apply for a film and audiovisual studies program. For two years, I balanced working as a university teacher while studying at the same institution. My days often lasted 20 hours, yet I was overjoyed to discover a new world and participate in various professional projects in the cinema industry. This experience allowed me to develop and grow as a person and as an African woman.

4. Developing a Unique Visual Style: Capturing the Soul and Embracing Diversity

Throughout my journey, I have nurtured a personal photographic and filmmaking style that combines my engineering background, theater experience, and cultural heritage. My work aims to showcase the beauty of tradition while highlighting the importance of preserving these cultural elements. By integrating my diverse experiences, I create visually captivating stories that resonate with a wide audience.

During this time, I filmed four short movies and focused on capturing the essence of the artists I worked with, allowing them to trust me with their souls in a photo or video. My interests lie in capturing bodies, emotions, and intercultural mixes, which has led me to create powerful and meaningful visual narratives.

5. Embracing New Opportunities and Cultures

In 2020, I moved to Germany to join my husband and subsequently became involved with a non-profit organization in Munich called “Start with a Friend.” This opportunity allowed me to take community photos and interact with a diverse group of international women. Among them were female authors, doctors, computer scientists, students, athletes and artists, all of whom I was thrilled to work with and learn from.

6. Empowering Women and Inspiring Change Through Photography and Filmmaking

My story has inspired women in Tunisia to break barriers and defy stereotypes, showing that it’s possible to excel in multiple fields. By sharing my journey, I hope to continue empowering women and driving positive change in society. My photography and filmmaking skills have become powerful tools for amplifying the voices of those who are often unheard, particularly women from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Reflecting on my personal and professional growth throughout this journey, I am excited about the future of my photography and filmmaking endeavors. As I continue to embrace new opportunities and collaborate with inspiring individuals, I look forward to capturing the rich tapestry of human experiences through my lens. I invite you to join me on this journey by following my website and engaging with my content on LinkedIn and other social media platforms. Together, let’s continue to explore the world through the lens, capturing moments that inspire change and empower others to follow their dreams.