In the heart of the Maldives, amidst its serene beauty, Fathmath Ashwa uses her camera to expose the undercurrents of political turmoil and social unrest. Born in Sri Lanka but a native Maldivian, Ashwa's work as a photojournalist captures the essence of a nation grappling with corruption, injustice, and the harsh realities of its political landscape. Through her lens, she documents the intense protests on the streets, portraying the daily struggles and resilience of her people. This article delves into her journey from capturing simple nature shots to poignant moments of human endurance, reflecting on how her passion for photography has evolved into a powerful tool for advocacy and storytelling.
In the picturesque but politically turbulent Maldives, a story of struggle and endurance unfolds through the lens of photojournalist Fathmath Ashwa. Born on April 16, 1991, in Sri Lanka, and raised in the Maldives, Ashwa has documented her nation’s chaotic political scene and its direct impact on the daily lives of its citizens.
Early Inspirations
Fathmath’s journey into the world of photography began in her teenage years. Inspired by the serene landscapes of the Maldives, her initial subjects were the natural elements around her—waves, oceans, and sunsets captured in stark black and white. Her fascination deepened during a family trip to an uninhabited island, where she captured a bird against the sky in perfect composition, a moment that sparked her cousin to suggest photography as a career.
Her intrigue wasn’t just with the beauty of nature but with the stories of her grandparents, whose faces she would capture under different lights to understand the interplay of shadows and contours. This blend of personal connection and artistic exploration laid the foundation for her future in photojournalism.
A Calling to Photojournalism
It wasn’t a single moment that steered Fathmath towards professional photography; rather, it was a gradual realization of the power of the lens to connect deeply with global narratives. Her artistic influences include iconic photographers like Steve McCurry, whose work introduced her to distant cultures and stories, and James Nachtway, known for his compelling war photography.
Using a Canon 5D Mark III and a trio of lenses, Fathmath approaches her subjects with intimacy and respect, a technique that allows her to capture the candid essence of her subjects. Her approach is unencumbered by excessive gear, fostering a more authentic connection with her subjects, often under challenging circumstances.
The Maldivian Political Landscape
The focus of her recent work has been the ongoing political unrest in the Maldives. The country, grappling with issues of corruption, injustice, and a high rate of social issues like sea pollution, waste management, and Islamic extremism, provides a ripe backdrop for a photojournalist. Fathmath’s series on the protests, particularly those involving women advocating for Sharia law, highlights the complexity of Maldivian society and the various forces at play.
One striking image she captured was during a protest turned chaotic by police intervention. The photograph, taken moments before a wave of pepper spray hit the crowd, captures the tension and fear in the protesters' faces—a powerful testament to the unrest that has gripped her homeland.
© Fathmath Ashwa
The Impact of Her Work
Fathmath’s work goes beyond mere documentation; it acts as a bridge connecting the Maldivian public with the realities of their socio-political landscape. Her images have inspired dialogue and brought international attention to the crises affecting the Maldives, showcasing her role not just as a photographer but as a pivotal communicator in times of turmoil.
Education and Recognition
Her academic background in photography was solidified with a Diploma from Malaysia, followed by a Masters in Photography from Leicester, United Kingdom, where she focused on gender issues like Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and the stereotyping of women in hijabs.
Her most cherished photo is not of political unrest but a serene moment at dawn in Nepal—a reminder of the peaceful interludes that are as much a part of human experience as conflict. This image, capturing the golden light of dawn, symbolizes hope and the everyday beauty that persists amid chaos.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Fathmath is constantly brewing new ideas for projects that delve deeper into societal issues. She is currently planning a comprehensive exploration of the impacts of climate change on the Maldivian archipelago, aiming to highlight the urgent environmental and cultural transformations affecting her homeland.
Through her lens, Fathmath Ashwa not only captures the story of her nation but also paints a picture of a world entangled in natural beauty and human complexity. Her work is a continuous journey of discovery, one that she hopes will inspire understanding and change by bringing untold stories to light.
© Fathmath Ashwa