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  • The school head-teacher (standing) is assisting a needy inmate during an IT lesson inside a computer room of the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_021.JPG
  • Guards are lining up for lunch at the deli bar inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_027.JPG
  • Inmates are taking part to a stretching session with their female trainer during the time they regularly spend carrying out physical exercise and learning about the human body inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_049.JPG
  • A sniffer dog is waiting for orders to begin walking through bags owned by new arrivals at the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_042.JPG
  • A Christian inmate is praying while sitting inside an area of the prison built purposely for prisoners wanting to express their faith inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_041.JPG
  • The medical personnel is preparing medicinal doses used by a number of inmates under treatment inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_033.JPG
  • Guards are eating and chatting in the lunch room of the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_028.JPG
  • Inmates are practicing instruments in the professional recording studio where they regularly play as a band, built inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_047.JPG
  • Inmates are practicing instruments in the professional recording studio where they regularly play as a band, built inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_020.jpg
  • Inmates are smoking a cigarette in one of the open areas of the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_035.JPG
  • An inmate is brushing his teeth in the bathroom inside one of the single-person prison cells build with various amenities in the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_029.JPG
  • Inmates (all but the woman teacher in the middle) are taking part to a cooking lesson inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_026.JPG
  • A guard (right) is enjoying time with an inmate during a welding workshop carried out inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_024.JPG
  • An inmate is taking a look at a book while working in the prison library, containing not only books but also magazines, CDs and DVDs, inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_018.JPG
  • An inmate (centre) is talking to a woman guard (right) inside the prison library, containing not only books but also magazines, CDs and DVDs, inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_017.JPG
  • Inmates are trying to use a one-wheeled bicycle inside the prison gym during the time they regularly spend carrying out physical exercise and learning about the human body at the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_012.JPG
  • A woman trainer (right) is running alongside an inmate in the yard of the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) during the time prisoners regularly spend carrying out physical exercise and learning about the human body in Halden, near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_011.JPG
  • Inmates are taking part to a climbing session during the time they regularly spend carrying out physical exercise and learning about the human body inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_008.JPG
  • An inmate (right) is practicing drawing along a woman guard during an art lesson at the school inside the premises of the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_006.JPG
  • A sniffer dog has just identified a bag of a new inmate to be suspicious and is calling for attention in the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_003.JPG
  • An inmate is taking part to a climbing session during the time regularly spent carrying out physical exercise and learning about the human body inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_048.JPG
  • Guards are standing in one of the observation points build for every living section of the prison in the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_044.JPG
  • An inmate is sitting on his bed inside one of the private prison cells built with en-suite bathroom and various other amenities in the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_043.JPG
  • Two inmates (left and right) are standing by their bedrooms next to a woman guard (centre) inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_040.JPG
  • Guards (left and right) are regularly spending time with inmates in various open areas where games like soccer, volleyball and basketball are organised in mixed teams of inmates, guards and other prison staff.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_038.JPG
  • A woman trainer (right) is inciting an inmate to run faster while in the yard of the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) during the time prisoners regularly spend carrying out physical exercise and learning about the human body in Halden, near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_036.JPG
  • Are Høidal, the director of the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) is talking at the phone while sitting at his desk, in Halden, near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_032.JPG
  • A CCTV camera is photographed in the yard of the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_031.JPG
  • The school head-teacher is walking through underground tunnels linking every building of the luxurious Halden Fengsel (prison) and used only by the staff to rapidly reach other sections, in Halden, near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_030.JPG
  • An inmate is learning welding skills during a workshop carried out inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_023.JPG
  • The prison dentist is portrayed in front of her working chair while waiting for a patient inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_022.JPG
  • A guard (left) is teaching car-repairing and basic mechanics to attentive inmate inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_010.JPG
  • A woman trainer (right) is talking to a few inmates after a run in the yard of the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) after the time they regularly spend carrying out physical exercise and learning about the human body in Halden, near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_009.JPG
  • An inmate is watching television while sitting on his bed inside one of the private prison cells built with en-suite bathroom and various other amenities in the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_005.JPG
  • The entrance of the luxurious Halden Fengsel (prison) is photographed from the street nearby in Halden, near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_001.JPG
  • The school head-teacher is opening an exit door with his electronic badge in the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_045.JPG
  • An inmate is organising his desk in the prison library, where he regularly works as an assistant inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway. The library is only containing books but also magazines, CDs and DVDs to be used by the inmates.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_025.JPG
  • A woman guard (right) is assisting an inmate (centre) while working in the laundry room of the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_019.JPG
  • Inmates are playing cards in one of the common kitchen and living room areas established to be a meeting point between inmates and guards and to facilitate rehabilitation inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_016.JPG
  • Two inmates are watching a television program in one of the common kitchen and living room areas established to be a meeting point between inmates and guards and to facilitate rehabilitation inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_015.JPG
  • Inmates are preparing some food in one of the common kitchen and living room areas established to be a meeting point between inmates and guards and to facilitate rehabilitation inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_014.JPG
  • Inmates (facing camera) and their instructor are clapping hands and singing during the time they regularly spend learning and practicing music arts inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_013.JPG
  • Guards are monitoring the luxurious Halden Fengsel (prison) through a CCTV camera system while sitting near the main entrance in Halden, near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_007.JPG
  • Are Høidal, (right) the director of the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) is walking in the prison's yard alongside one of the guards in Halden, near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_004.JPG
  • An inmate (right) is taking part to a climbing session assisted by a teacher (left) during the time they regularly spend carrying out physical exercise and learning about the human body inside the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_039.JPG
  • Guards (left and right) are regularly spending time with inmates in various open areas where games like soccer, volleyball and basketball are organised in mixed teams of inmates, guards and other prison staff.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_037.JPG
  • Guards (left and right) are regularly spending time with inmates in various open areas where games like soccer, volleyball and basketball are organised in mixed teams of inmates, guards and other prison staff in the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_034.JPG
  • A young convict is smoking a cigarette next to one of the graffiti commissioned to Dolk, a renowned Barsky-type Norwegian artist, in the luxurious Halden Fengsel, (prison) near Oslo, Norway.
    Halden_Luxury_Prison_Norway_002.JPG
  • A dealer is making portions of Crystal Meth (aka 'tik'), an highly addictive chemical drug commonly used in impoverished neighbourhoods in the Western Cape, RSA. Serc, 26 years old, and member of a gang in Heideveld, was shot twice in front of his house by rival gangsters. He has a wife, awaiting a third child, and two young children; with the growing unemployment in the area it has been impossible for him to provide for his family, joined a gang and started selling drugs. He is the 'main guy' in the neighbourhood and people go to him if they have a problem. "If I could find a reasonable job I would definitely quit, I know all this is not good, and it is harming our very community, but now I have to go on, I have no alternative" he says. Meth is becoming increasingly popular amongst schoolchildren and it is not difficult to find kids as young as 12 with addiction. Statistics say that over a six-month period, 94% of Meth users become addicted to it. Meth gives psychotic effects such as seeing or hearing things that are not there, and it is incline to induce violent behaviour. Meth is common between gang members, it is ideal to prepare a gun-man to hit, removing inhibitions, sharpening senses and fuelling aggression. It is easily smoked in pipes or bulbs, and it does not require a laboratory to be produced: in fact, having the right substances, it can be made even in a kitchen. High availability together with the really cheap price of 30-40 Rands per straw ( about 3-4 UK pounds) is helping to increase the abuse of this dangerous substance. Dealing Meth is also a very lucrative business which can turn a 2000 Rands (200 UK pounds) investment into 5000 Rands (500 UK pounds) in a short time. Tolerance develops quickly and higher doses are soon needed to obtain the same effect on the body.
    Marvin_Gangster_Redemption_10.JPG
  • A pill of Mandrax (methaqualone). Initially marketed as a sedative or sleeping tablet by the French pharmaceutical giant Roussell Laboratories, it turned out to be highly addictive and banned in 1977. Sold illegally in South Africa, it is smoked in conjunction with Marijuana and it is the most widely used drug in the Western Cape, sold at about 30 Rands (about 3 UK pounds) per tablet. It is crushed and smoked in pipes or bottlenecks. It makes the user feel relaxed, clam and peaceful and everything looks perfect, while turning aggressive when the effect is wearing off. It requires increased usage in order to achieve the same effects and depression feelings are not uncommon with use. According to the Cape Town Drug Counselling Centre (CTDCC) it is a really difficult habit to break in impoverished communities where young unemployed are left on their own with no government help or other activities apart from crime and gansgterism. Social injustice, weakened family links and a feeling of 'not-belonging' are also causes of problems upon the 'coloured' communities in South Africa.
    Marvin_Gangster_Redemption_05.JPG
  • Youngsters smoking Mandrax (methaqualone) and Marijuana in their backgarden, in Cape Town, RSA. Initially marketed as a sedative or sleeping tablet by the French pharmaceutical giant Roussell Laboratories, it turned out to be highly addictive and banned in 1977. Sold illegally in South Africa, it is smoked in conjunction with Marijuana and it is the most widely used drug in the Western Cape, sold at about 30 Rands (about 3 UK pounds) per tablet. It is crushed and smoked in pipes or bottlenecks. It makes the user feel relaxed, clam and peaceful and everything looks perfect, while turning aggressive when the effect is wearing off. It requires increased usage in order to achieve the same effects and depression feelings are not uncommon with use. According to the Cape Town Drug Counselling Centre (CTDCC) it is a really difficult habit to break in impoverished communities where young unemployed are left on their own with no government help or other activities apart from crime and gansgterism. Social injustice, weakened family links and a feeling of 'not-belonging' are also causes of problems upon the 'coloured' communities in South Africa.
    Marvin_Gangster_Redemption_11.JPG
  • Crystal Meth (aka 'tik'), an highly addictive chemical drug commonly used in impoverished neighbourhoods in the Western Cape, RSA. Meth is becoming increasingly popular amongst schoolchildren and it is not difficult to find kids as young as 12 with addiction. Statistics say that over a six month period, 94% of Meth users become addicted to it. Meth gives psychotic effects such as seeing or hearing things that are not there, and it is incline to induce violent behaviour. Meth is common between gang members, it is ideal to prepare a gun-man to hit, removing inhibitions, sharpening senses and fuelling aggression. It is easily smoked in pipes or bulbs, and it does not require a laboratory to be produced: in fact, having the right substances, it can be made even in a kitchen. High availability together with the really cheap price of 30-40 Rands per straw ( about 3-4 UK pounds) is helping to increase the abuse of this dangerous substance. Dealing Meth is also a very lucrative business which can turn a 2000 Rands (200 UK pounds) investment into 5000 Rands (500 UK pounds) in a short time. Tolerance develops quickly and higher doses are soon needed to obtain the same effect on the body. Chronic abuse can lead to out-of-control rages, violence, anxiety, confusion and mood disturbances. Meth affects many parts of the central neurous system and if prolonged it does not only affects behaviour but literally changes the brain in fundamental and longstanding ways.
    Marvin_Gangster_Redemption_09.JPG
  • A youngster is smoking Mandrax (methaqualone) mixed with Marijuana in Heideveld, Cape Town, RSA.  Initially marketed as a sedative or sleeping tablet by the French pharmaceutical giant Roussell Laboratories, it turned out to be highly addictive and banned in 1977. Sold illegally in South Africa, it is smoked in conjunction with Marijuana and it is the most widely used drug in the Western Cape, sold at about 30 Rands (about 3 UK pounds) per tablet. It is crushed and smoked in pipes or bottlenecks. It makes the user feel relaxed, clam and peaceful and everything looks perfect, while turning aggressive when the effect is wearing off. It requires increased usage in order to achieve the same effects and depression feelings are not uncommon with use. According to the Cape Town Drug Counselling Centre (CTDCC) it is a really difficult habit to break in impoverished communities where young unemployed are left on their own with no government help or other activities apart from crime and gansgterism. Social injustice, weakened family links and a feeling of 'not-belonging' are also causes of problems upon the ?coloured? communities in South Africa.
    Marvin_Gangster_Redemption_03.JPG
  • Youngster smoking Mandrax (methaqualone) and Marijuana in a bottleneck, in Heideveld, CapeTown, RSA. Initially marketed as a sedative or sleeping tablet by the French pharmaceutical giant Roussell Laboratories, it turned out to be highly addictive and banned in 1977. Sold illegally in South Africa, it is smoked in conjunction with Marijuana and it is the most widely used drug in the Western Cape, sold at about 30 Rands (about 3 UK pounds) per tablet. It is crushed and smoked in pipes or bottlenecks. It makes the user feel relaxed, clam and peaceful and everything looks perfect, while turning aggressive when the effect is wearing off. It requires increased usage in order to achieve the same effects and depression feelings are not uncommon with use. According to the Cape Town Drug Counselling Centre (CTDCC) it is a really difficult habit to break in impoverished communities where young unemployed are left on their own with no government help or other activities apart from crime and gansgterism. Social injustice, weakened family links and a feeling of 'not-belonging' are also causes of problems upon the 'coloured' communities in South Africa.
    Marvin_Gangster_Redemption_12.JPG
  • Marvin, 20 years old, former gangster, teaching a life orientation lesson to young neglected youngsters in the School of Hope in Athlone, Cape Town, RSA, where troubled young kids at risk are getting education (run by Thembalitsha.org.za a local NGO). Marvin was a hit-man, working also for different gang such as 'The Americans' and the 'Junior Mafia' between the age of 15 and 19. He grow up in the mainly 'coloured' area of  Heideveld, where unemployment is rife and gangs are flourishing. He was also addicted by crystal meth (aka 'tik'), a dangerous chemical drug very common in South Africa's poorest neighbourhoods. Thanks to his family, after having been to reformatory, he was helped to get out of the gangs and to join a free academy for skills development aimed at empowering troubled youths through training and discipline, called Chrysalis (www.chrysalisacademy.org.za). He finished a three month course there and he is now about to  start working in the tourism industry; he know the wrongs has done and he does not want to go back to that life anymore. Chrysalis aim at reducing the levels of crime and violence in the Western Cape by transforming 'youth at risk' into strong, positive community leaders of the future through intensive continuous training. ?After I left the gang I was working for in the Woodstock area of Cape Town I have made myself some enemies; I cannot go back there anymore because someone has still anger left for me?I don?t want that life anymore, I want to live peacefully and fulfil my aspirations, you see: it is a matter of having little short-term goals, once you have achieved one you go onto the next, and so on. Always think you can do it, don?t give up, go for it again. I was running in dark corners, there was no way out, I did not have a goal, I had no dreams. You need to believe that you are worthwhile. Life is hard, it depends on you on how you want to make your life. Make everyday your day."
    Marvin_Gangster_Redemption_02.JPG
  • Doctors at Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF - Doctors Without Borders) are trying to reanimate Marhazu Sa'adu, 9 days old, a child suffering from blood lead level of 49.6 micrograms per decilitre, tetanus and septicaemia, inside the MSF clinic in Anka, Zamfara State, Nigeria. Marhazu passed away within the day. The MSF facility handles serious cases of lead poisoning referred to them by local clinics in the surrounding villages. It is mainly caused by ingestion and breathing of lead particles released in the steps to isolate the gold from other metals. This type of lead is soluble in stomach acid and children under-5 are most affected, as they tend to ingest more through their hands by touching the ground, and are developing symptoms often leading to death or serious disabilities. The treatment with MSF starts when blood lead level (BLL) samples reach 45 micrograms per decilitre. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that a BLL of 5 micro-g/dL or above is a cause for concern. The cycle of medicines lasts for 20 days. After that, the child's blood is tested and a new round of treatment is provided. Treatment can last years, as lead is reduced in the blood, but it persists noticeably within the bones, especially if the patients return to the same polluted environment. Remediation of the affected villages, a campaign of awareness, and the introduction of safer mining techniques are pivotal to the long-term solution of a hazardous trend that has already killed over 460 children, and it is bound to grow in size, fostered by the ever-rising price of gold.
    16_Zamfara_Gold_Lead.JPG
  • Remains of Rubina Ali's house in the slum where she still lives with her family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India, are photographed after her home was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities. She is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Rubina Ali, 9, is the child actor playing the role of 'young Latika', the friend/lover of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • A woman labourer is carrying a bag of cement on her head while children are playing along the narrow shady passageways of the slum next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India, where famous child actors Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali, playing the roles of 'young Salim' and 'young Latika' in the movie Slumdog Millionaire, winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, still live with their families. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • A sad Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is sitting near his home inside the slum where he and his family still live next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is listening to music through his mobile phone in the slum where he still lives with his family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Marvin, 20 years old, former gangster, teaching a life orientation lesson to young neglected youngsters in the School of Hope in Athlone, Cape Town, RSA, where troubled young kids at risk are getting education (run by Thembalitsha.org.za a local NGO). Marvin was a hit-man, working also for different gang such as 'The Americans' and the 'Junior Mafia' between the age of 15 and 19. He grow up in the mainly 'coloured' area of  Heideveld, where unemployment is rife and gangs are flourishing. He was also addicted by crystal meth (aka 'tik'), a dangerous chemical drug very common in South Africa's poorest neighbourhoods. Thanks to his family, after having been to reformatory, he was helped to get out of the gangs and to join a free academy for skills development aimed at empowering troubled youths through training and discipline, called Chrysalis (www.chrysalisacademy.org.za). He finished a three month course there and he is now about to  start working in the tourism industry; he know the wrongs has done and he does not want to go back to that life anymore. Chrysalis aim at reducing the levels of crime and violence in the Western Cape by transforming 'youth at risk' into strong, positive community leaders of the future through intensive continuous training. ?After I left the gang I was working for in the Woodstock area of Cape Town I have made myself some enemies; I cannot go back there anymore because someone has still anger left for me?I don?t want that life anymore, I want to live peacefully and fulfil my aspirations, you see: it is a matter of having little short-term goals, once you have achieved one you go onto the next, and so on. Always think you can do it, don?t give up, go for it again. I was running in dark corners, there was no way out, I did not have a goal, I had no dreams. You need to believe that you are worthwhile. Life is hard, it depends on you on how you want to make your life. Make everyday your day."
    Marvin_Gangster_Redemption_16.jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is taking his mobile phone back after having it shown to a 'friend' on the streets surrounding the slum where he still lives with his family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Jeffrey Jr., 7, member of the Hip Hop Church Choir, is dancing in front of the altar at the beat of the music during a Mass Service at the Hip Hop Church in Harlem, New York, NY., on Thursday, June 22, 2006. A new growing phenomenon in the United States, and in particular in its most multiethnic city, New York, the Hip Hop Church is the meeting point between Hip Hop and Christianity, a place where ëGodí is worshipped not according to religious dogmatisms and rules, but where the ëHoly Spirití is celebrated by the community through young, unique, passionate Hip Hop lyrics. Its mission is to present the Christian Gospel in a setting that appeals to both, those individuals who are confessed Christians, as well as those who are not regularly attending traditional Services, while helping many youngsters from underprivileged neighbourhoods to feel part of a community, to make them feel loved and to help them not to give up when problems arise. The Hip Hop Church is not only forward-thinking but it also has an important impact where life at times can be difficult and deceiving, and where young people can be easily influenced for the worst purposes. At the Hip Hop Church, members are encouraged to sing, dance and express themselves in any way that the ëSpirit of Godí moves them. Honours to students who have overcome adversity, community leaders, church leaders and some of the unsung pioneers of Hip Hop are common at this Church. Here, Hip Hop is the culture, while Jesus is the centre. Services are being mainly in Harlem, where many African Americans live; although the Hip Hop Church is not exclusive and people from any ethnic group are happily accepted and involved with as much enthusiasm. Rev. Ferguson, one of its pioneer founders, has developed ëHip-Hop Homileticsí, a preaching and worship technique designed to reach the children in their language and highlight their sensibilities, while bringing forth Christianity. This ëKeep It Realí evangelism style is the centrepiece
    HipHopChurch15.jpg
  • Hip Hop legend, Kurtis Blow, 47, playing on the mixer during a Mass Service at the Hip Hop Church in Harlem, New York, NY., on Thursday, June 29, 2006. A new growing phenomenon in the United States, and in particular in its most multiethnic city, New York, the Hip Hop Church is the meeting point between Hip Hop and Christianity, a place where ?God? is worshipped not according to religious dogmatisms and rules, but where the ?Holy Spirit? is celebrated by the community through young, unique, passionate Hip Hop lyrics. Its mission is to present the Christian Gospel in a setting that appeals to both, those individuals who are confessed Christians, as well as those who are not regularly attending traditional Services, while helping many youngsters from underprivileged neighbourhoods to feel part of a community, to make them feel loved and to help them not to give up when problems arise. The Hip Hop Church is not only forward-thinking but it also has an important impact where life at times can be difficult and deceiving, and where young people can be easily influenced for the worst purposes. At the Hip Hop Church, members are encouraged to sing, dance and express themselves in any way that the ?Spirit of God? moves them. Honours to students who have overcome adversity, community leaders, church leaders and some of the unsung pioneers of Hip Hop are common at this Church. Here, Hip Hop is the culture, while Jesus is the centre. Services are being mainly in Harlem, where many African Americans live; although the Hip Hop Church is not exclusive and people from any ethnic group are happily accepted and involved with as much enthusiasm. Rev. Ferguson, one of its pioneer founders, has developed ?Hip-Hop Homiletics?, a preaching and worship technique designed to reach the children in their language and highlight their sensibilities, while bringing forth Christianity. This ?Keep It Real? evangelism style is the centrepiece of Rev. Ferguson?s ministry, one that speaks the plain l
    HipHopChurch03.jpg
  • Women with their children are sitting on the floor of the Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF - Doctors Without Borders) clinic in Anka, Zamfara State, Nigeria, handling serious cases of lead poisoning referred to them by local clinics in the surrounding villages. It is mainly caused by ingestion and breathing of lead particles released in the steps to isolate the gold from other metals. This type of lead is soluble in stomach acid and children under-5 are most affected, as they tend to ingest more through their hands by touching the ground, and are developing symptoms often leading to death or serious disabilities. The treatment with MSF starts when blood lead level (BLL) samples reach 45 micrograms per decilitre. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that a BLL of 5 micro-g/dL or above is a cause for concern. The cycle of medicines lasts for 20 days. After that, the child's blood is tested and a new round of treatment is provided. Treatment can last years, as lead is reduced in the blood, but it persists noticeably within the bones, especially if the patients return to the same polluted environment. Remediation of the affected villages, a campaign of awareness, and the introduction of safer mining techniques are pivotal to the long-term solution of a hazardous trend that has already killed over 460 children, and it is bound to grow in size, fostered by the ever-rising price of gold.
    15_Zamfara_Gold_Lead.JPG
  • Children are playing inside the slum next to Bandra (East) train station, Mumbai, India, near the home of child actors Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali, playing the roles of 'young Salim' and 'young Latika' in the movie Slumdog Millionaire, winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • A slum section is photographed from Bandra (East) train station, Mumbai, India. Here, famous child actors Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali, playing the roles of 'young Salim' and 'young Latika' in the movie Slumdog Millionaire, winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, still live with their families. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Children are playing inside the slum next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India, where famous child actors Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali, playing the roles of 'young Salim' and 'young Latika' in the movie Slumdog Millionaire, winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, still live with their families. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • The busy road surrounding the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India, is photographed from a rooftop. In the nearby slum area, child actors Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali, playing the roles of 'young Salim' and 'young Latika' in the movie Slumdog Millionaire, winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, still live with their families. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is buying a local Indian tobacco product for his father on the streets surrounding the slum where he still lives with his family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, as the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is arguing with his mother in their home inside the slum where they still live next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is playing with a water pump near a drain in the slum where he still lives with his family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is sitting in front of his home along with his father, Mohammed Ismail, 45, (left) and mother, Shammi Bi, 36, (right) in the slum where they still live next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is playing with his mobile phone while sitting with two friends in the evening in front of his home inside the slum where his family still live next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is having a small discussion with his mother over his mobile phone in the slum where he still lives with his family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is laughing with friends in the slum where he still lives with his family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is playing with a water pump near a drain in the slum where he still lives with his family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Details of a Vampyre Connexionís member during a tour to West Norwood Cemetery on Sunday, 4 March, 2007, in London, England. The Vampyre Connexion is the largest and most active of all the vampire groups in the United Kingdom, counting more than 100 members that for years have gathered regularly in London to share their common love for vampires and the Dark side of life. The Connexion raised from the hashes of the Vampyre Society, the first vampire appreciation group in 1995. The group believe in the fantasy of vampires and such creatures and live it to the full. Its  roots are to be found in the legends of Bram Stokerís Dracula. The group prints its own magazine, ëDark Nightsí featuring drawings, poetry, stories, photography and events. All of the members dress very peculiar clothing, and this is a very important part of the life of the group; it is respected with pride, taste and accuracy for the detail. Most like to dress to be elegant in a range of styles from regency to Victorian, some sew their own. In addition members visit art galleries, cemeteries, churches and cathedrals, attend gigs and concerts, and hold their own parties throughout the year, Halloween being the biggest and scariest one. Membership is open to all, the only qualification: being a love of all things Vampyric. **ItalyOut**
    VampiresLondon08.JPG
  • Members of the public invoking the Lord and praying for the Holy Spirit to descend on them during a Mass Service at the Hip Hop Church in Harlem, New York, NY., on Thursday, July 6, 2006. A new growing phenomenon in the United States, and in particular in its most multiethnic city, New York, the Hip Hop Church is the meeting point between Hip Hop and Christianity, a place where ?God? is worshipped not according to religious dogmatisms and rules, but where the ?Holy Spirit? is celebrated by the community through young, unique, passionate Hip Hop lyrics. Its mission is to present the Christian Gospel in a setting that appeals to both, those individuals who are confessed Christians, as well as those who are not regularly attending traditional Services, while helping many youngsters from underprivileged neighbourhoods to feel part of a community, to make them feel loved and to help them not to give up when problems arise. The Hip Hop Church is not only forward-thinking but it also has an important impact where life at times can be difficult and deceiving, and where young people can be easily influenced for the worst purposes. At the Hip Hop Church, members are encouraged to sing, dance and express themselves in any way that the ?Spirit of God? moves them. Honours to students who have overcome adversity, community leaders, church leaders and some of the unsung pioneers of Hip Hop are common at this Church. Here, Hip Hop is the culture, while Jesus is the centre. Services are being mainly in Harlem, where many African Americans live; although the Hip Hop Church is not exclusive and people from any ethnic group are happily accepted and involved with as much enthusiasm. Rev. Ferguson, one of its pioneer founders, has developed ?Hip-Hop Homiletics?, a preaching and worship technique designed to reach the children in their language and highlight their sensibilities, while bringing forth Christianity. This ?Keep It Real? evangelism style is the centrepiece of Rev. Ferguson?s m
    HipHopChurch28.jpg
  • The Hells Most Wanted, a Christian Hip Hop group, and other members of the Hip Hop Church Choir, are singing and dancing in front of the altar during a Mass Service at the Hip Hop Church in Harlem, New York, NY., on Thursday, June 29, 2006. A new growing phenomenon in the United States, and in particular in its most multiethnic city, New York, the Hip Hop Church is the meeting point between Hip Hop and Christianity, a place where ?God? is worshipped not according to religious dogmatisms and rules, but where the ?Holy Spirit? is celebrated by the community through young, unique, passionate Hip Hop lyrics. Its mission is to present the Christian Gospel in a setting that appeals to both, those individuals who are confessed Christians, as well as those who are not regularly attending traditional Services, while helping many youngsters from underprivileged neighbourhoods to feel part of a community, to make them feel loved and to help them not to give up when problems arise. The Hip Hop Church is not only forward-thinking but it also has an important impact where life at times can be difficult and deceiving, and where young people can be easily influenced for the worst purposes. At the Hip Hop Church, members are encouraged to sing, dance and express themselves in any way that the ?Spirit of God? moves them. Honours to students who have overcome adversity, community leaders, church leaders and some of the unsung pioneers of Hip Hop are common at this Church. Here, Hip Hop is the culture, while Jesus is the centre. Services are being mainly in Harlem, where many African Americans live; although the Hip Hop Church is not exclusive and people from any ethnic group are happily accepted and involved with as much enthusiasm. Rev. Ferguson, one of its pioneer founders, has developed ?Hip-Hop Homiletics?, a preaching and worship technique designed to reach the children in their language and highlight their sensibilities, while bringing forth Christianity. This ?Keep It Real? eva
    HipHopChurch19.jpg
  • A young girl worshipper is dancing at the hip hop beat during a Mass Service at the Hip Hop Church in Harlem, New York, NY., on Thursday, June 22, 2006. A new growing phenomenon in the United States, and in particular in its most multiethnic city, New York, the Hip Hop Church is the meeting point between Hip Hop and Christianity, a place where ëGodí is worshipped not according to religious dogmatisms and rules, but where the ëHoly Spirití is celebrated by the community through young, unique, passionate Hip Hop lyrics. Its mission is to present the Christian Gospel in a setting that appeals to both, those individuals who are confessed Christians, as well as those who are not regularly attending traditional Services, while helping many youngsters from underprivileged neighbourhoods to feel part of a community, to make them feel loved and to help them not to give up when problems arise. The Hip Hop Church is not only forward-thinking but it also has an important impact where life at times can be difficult and deceiving, and where young people can be easily influenced for the worst purposes. At the Hip Hop Church, members are encouraged to sing, dance and express themselves in any way that the ëSpirit of Godí moves them. Honours to students who have overcome adversity, community leaders, church leaders and some of the unsung pioneers of Hip Hop are common at this Church. Here, Hip Hop is the culture, while Jesus is the centre. Services are being mainly in Harlem, where many African Americans live; although the Hip Hop Church is not exclusive and people from any ethnic group are happily accepted and involved with as much enthusiasm. Rev. Ferguson, one of its pioneer founders, has developed ëHip-Hop Homileticsí, a preaching and worship technique designed to reach the children in their language and highlight their sensibilities, while bringing forth Christianity. This ëKeep It Realí evangelism style is the centrepiece of Rev. Fergusonís ministry, one that speaks the plain
    HipHopChurch11.JPG
  • Women with their children are sitting on the floor of the Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF - Doctors Without Borders) clinic in Anka, Zamfara State, Nigeria, handling serious cases of lead poisoning referred to them by local clinics in the surrounding villages. It is mainly caused by ingestion and breathing of lead particles released in the steps to isolate the gold from other metals. This type of lead is soluble in stomach acid and children under-5 are most affected, as they tend to ingest more through their hands by touching the ground, and are developing symptoms often leading to death or serious disabilities. The treatment with MSF starts when blood lead level (BLL) samples reach 45 micrograms per decilitre. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that a BLL of 5 micro-g/dL or above is a cause for concern. The cycle of medicines lasts for 20 days. After that, the child's blood is tested and a new round of treatment is provided. Treatment can last years, as lead is reduced in the blood, but it persists noticeably within the bones, especially if the patients return to the same polluted environment. Remediation of the affected villages, a campaign of awareness, and the introduction of safer mining techniques are pivotal to the long-term solution of a hazardous trend that has already killed over 460 children, and it is bound to grow in size, fostered by the ever-rising price of gold.
    Stories_Portfolio_039.JPG
  • Workers are washing ore dust, separating gold sediments from other metals, to later collect it by mixing it with mercury, in an artisanal processing site near Abare, a village affected by lead poisoning due to the unsafe techniques employed for extracting gold, in Zamfara State, Nigeria. The mercury recovered is then burned, revealing unpolished pieces of solid gold. It will be purified in Gusau, where goldsmiths will add sulphuric acid to refine the gold and remove all the impurities. The lead contamination is caused by ingestion and breathing of particles released in the steps to isolate the gold from other metals. This type of lead is soluble in stomach acid and children under-5 are most affected, as they tend to ingest more through their hands by touching the ground, and are developing symptoms often leading to death or serious disabilities.
    Stories_Portfolio_035.JPG
  • A mother is sitting with her children inside the Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF - Doctors Without Borders) clinic in Anka, Zamfara State, Nigeria, handling serious cases of lead poisoning referred to them by local clinics in the surrounding villages. It is mainly caused by ingestion and breathing of lead particles released in the steps to isolate the gold from other metals. This type of lead is soluble in stomach acid and children under-5 are most affected, as they tend to ingest more through their hands by touching the ground, and are developing symptoms often leading to death or serious disabilities. The treatment with MSF starts when blood lead level (BLL) samples reach 45 micrograms per decilitre. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that a BLL of 5 micro-g/dL or above is a cause for concern. The cycle of medicines lasts for 20 days. After that, the child's blood is tested and a new round of treatment is provided. Treatment can last years, as lead is reduced in the blood, but it persists noticeably within the bones, especially if the patients return to the same polluted environment. Remediation of the affected villages, a campaign of awareness, and the introduction of safer mining techniques are pivotal to the long-term solution of a hazardous trend that has already killed over 460 children, and it is bound to grow in size, fostered by the ever-rising price of gold.
    17_Zamfara_Gold_Lead.JPG
  • Lukman Maigoro, 6, (right) a young boy suffering from blindness, is having breakfast with two of his siblings in Bagega, pop. 9000, a large village affected by lead poisoning due to the unsafe techniques employed for extracting gold, in Zamfara State, Nigeria. At the age of 4, Lukman became blind due to lead poisoning. He was cured at the Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF - Doctors Without Borders) clinic in Anka, handling serious cases of lead poisoning referred to them by local clinics in the surrounding villages. It is mainly caused by ingestion and breathing of lead particles released in the steps to isolate the gold from other metals. This type of lead is soluble in stomach acid and children under-5 are most affected, as they tend to ingest more through their hands by touching the ground, and are developing symptoms often leading to death or serious disabilities. The treatment with MSF starts when blood lead level (BLL) samples reach 45 micrograms per decilitre. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that a BLL of 5 micro-g/dL or above is a cause for concern. The cycle of medicines lasts for 20 days. After that, the child's blood is tested and a new round of treatment is provided. Treatment can last years, as lead is reduced in the blood, but it persists noticeably within the bones, especially if the patients return to the same polluted environment. Remediation of the affected villages, a campaign of awareness, and the introduction of safer mining techniques are pivotal to the long-term solution of a hazardous trend that has already killed over 460 children, and it is bound to grow in size, fostered by the ever-rising price of gold.
    11_Zamfara_Gold_Lead.JPG
  • Rubina Ali, 9, the child actor playing the role of 'young Latika', the friend/lover of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is smiling while on the streets near her uncle's house in the slum where she still lives with her family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Rubina Ali, 9, the child actor playing the role of 'young Latika', the friend/lover of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is playing with her mobile phone while two friends overlook, inside the slum where she still lives with her family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Rubina Ali, 9, the child actor playing the role of 'young Latika', the friend/lover of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is smiling while on the streets near her uncle's house in the slum where she still lives with her family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is enjoying his mobile phone while two friends overlook, inside the slum where he still lives with his family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is riding his bicycle in the slum where he still lives with his family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is chatting on his mobile phone near a friend in the slum where he still lives with his family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Azharuddin Ismail, 10, the child actor playing the role of 'young Salim', the brother of Jamal, protagonist of Slumdog Millionaire, the famous movie winner of 8 Oscar Academy Awards in December 2008, is riding his bicycle in the slum where he still lives with his family next to the train station of Bandra (East), Mumbai, India. Various promises were made to lift the two young actors (Azharuddin Ismail and Rubina Ali) from poverty and slum-life but as of the end of May 2009 anything is yet to happen. Rubina's house was recently demolished with no notice as it lay on land owned by the Maharashtra train authorities and she is now permanently living with her uncle's family in a home a stone-throw away in the same slum. Azharuddin's home too was demolished in the past two weeks, as it happens every year in his case, because the concrete walls were preventing local authorities to clear a drain passing right behind it. As usual, his father is looking into restoring the walls as soon as the work on the drain has been completed.
    Slumdog_Millionaire_Salaam_Mumbai_In...jpg
  • Jenny, 62, the extravagant wife of Colin, the Vampyre Master, portrayed at her make-up table in her bedroom on Sunday, 29 June, 2007, in South London, England. The Vampyre Connexion is the largest and most active of all the vampire groups in the United Kingdom, counting more than 100 members that for years have gathered regularly in London to share their common love for vampires and the Dark side of life. The Connexion raised from the hashes of the Vampyre Society, the first vampire appreciation group in 1995. The group believe in the fantasy of vampires and such creatures and live it to the full. Its  roots are to be found in the legends of Bram Stokerís Dracula. The group prints its own magazine, ëDark Nightsí featuring drawings, poetry, stories, photography and events. All of the members dress very peculiar clothing, and this is a very important part of the life of the group; it is respected with pride, taste and accuracy for the detail. Most like to dress to be elegant in a range of styles from regency to Victorian, some sew their own. In addition members visit art galleries, cemeteries, churches and cathedrals, attend gigs and concerts, and hold their own parties throughout the year, Halloween being the biggest and scariest one. Membership is open to all, the only qualification: being a love of all things Vampyric. **ItalyOut**
    VampiresLondon22.JPG
  • Pictures of Cecileís graduation and master degree are hanging from the wall in her living room on Sunday, 10 June, 2006, in Camden Town, London, England. Cecile, 31, a French woman from Avignon, lives in London since 14 years and is one of the members in the Vampyre Connexion committee. The Vampyre Connexion is the largest and most active of all the vampire groups in the United Kingdom, counting more than 100 members that for years have gathered regularly in London to share their common love for vampires and the Dark side of life. The Connexion raised from the hashes of the Vampyre Society, the first vampire appreciation group in 1995. The group believe in the fantasy of vampires and such creatures and live it to the full. Its  roots are to be found in the legends of Bram Stokerís Dracula. The group prints its own magazine, ëDark Nightsí featuring drawings, poetry, stories, photography and events. All of the members dress very peculiar clothing, and this is a very important part of the life of the group; it is respected with pride, taste and accuracy for the detail. Most like to dress to be elegant in a range of styles from regency to Victorian, some sew their own. In addition members visit art galleries, cemeteries, churches and cathedrals, attend gigs and concerts, and hold their own parties throughout the year, Halloween being the biggest and scariest one. Membership is open to all, the only qualification: being a love of all things Vampyric.**ItalyOut**
    VampiresLondon16.JPG
  • Sonia Siccardi, 28, the singer of the Theatres des Vampires, a Gothic music group, is walking off the stage at the end of the concert at the Slimelight, an exclusive Goth club in London during a night organised by the Vampyre Connexion, on Saturday, 3 February, 2007, in London, England. The Vampyre Connexion is the largest and most active of all the vampire groups in the United Kingdom, counting more than 100 members that for years have gathered regularly in London to share their common love for vampires and the Dark side of life. The Connexion raised from the hashes of the Vampyre Society, the first vampire appreciation group in 1995. The group believe in the fantasy of vampires and such creatures and live it to the full. Its  roots are to be found in the legends of Bram Stokerís Dracula. The group prints its own magazine, ëDark Nightsí featuring drawings, poetry, stories, photography and events. All of the members dress very peculiar clothing, and this is a very important part of the life of the group; it is respected with pride, taste and accuracy for the detail. Most like to dress to be elegant in a range of styles from regency to Victorian, some sew their own. In addition members visit art galleries, cemeteries, churches and cathedrals, attend gigs and concerts, and hold their own parties throughout the year, Halloween being the biggest and scariest one. Membership is open to all, the only qualification: being a love of all things Vampyric.**ItalyOut**
    VampiresLondon14.JPG
  • Emma Smith, 21, is sitting on a sofa in Cecileís living room on Sunday, 15 October, 2006, in Camden Town, London, England. The Vampyre Connexion is the largest and most active of all the vampire groups in the United Kingdom, counting more than 100 members that for years have gathered regularly in London to share their common love for vampires and the Dark side of life. The Connexion raised from the hashes of the Vampyre Society, the first vampire appreciation group in 1995. The group believe in the fantasy of vampires and such creatures and live it to the full. Its  roots are to be found in the legends of Bram Stokerís Dracula. The group prints its own magazine, ëDark Nightsí featuring drawings, poetry, stories, photography and events. All of the members dress very peculiar clothing, and this is a very important part of the life of the group; it is respected with pride, taste and accuracy for the detail. Most like to dress to be elegant in a range of styles from regency to Victorian, some sew their own. In addition members visit art galleries, cemeteries, churches and cathedrals, attend gigs and concerts, and hold their own parties throughout the year, Halloween being the biggest and scariest one. Membership is open to all, the only qualification: being a love of all things Vampyric. **ItalyOut**
    VampiresLondon09.JPG
  • Emma Smith, 21, portrayed while savouring a glass of wine in Cecileís living room on Sunday, 15 October, 2006, in Camden Town, London, England. The Vampyre Connexion is the largest and most active of all the vampire groups in the United Kingdom, counting more than 100 members that for years have gathered regularly in London to share their common love for vampires and the Dark side of life. The Connexion raised from the hashes of the Vampyre Society, the first vampire appreciation group in 1995. The group believe in the fantasy of vampires and such creatures and live it to the full. Its  roots are to be found in the legends of Bram Stokerís Dracula. The group prints its own magazine, ëDark Nightsí featuring drawings, poetry, stories, photography and events. All of the members dress very peculiar clothing, and this is a very important part of the life of the group; it is respected with pride, taste and accuracy for the detail. Most like to dress to be elegant in a range of styles from regency to Victorian, some sew their own. In addition members visit art galleries, cemeteries, churches and cathedrals, attend gigs and concerts, and hold their own parties throughout the year, Halloween being the biggest and scariest one. Membership is open to all, the only qualification: being a love of all things Vampyric.  **ItalyOut**
    VampiresLondon05.JPG
  • (left to right) Jonathan Aristow, 20, Darren Jack Powell, 36, both from London, and Audrey a 25-year-old French national getting ready for a cemetery tour organised by the Vampyre Connexion on Sunday, 2 December, 2006, in Nunhead Cemetery, South London, England. The Vampyre Connexion is the largest and most active of all the vampire groups in the United Kingdom, counting more than 100 members that for years have gathered regularly in London to share their common love for vampires and the Dark side of life. The Connexion raised from the hashes of the Vampyre Society, the first vampire appreciation group in 1995. The group believe in the fantasy of vampires and such creatures and live it to the full. Its  roots are to be found in the legends of Bram Stokerís Dracula. The group prints its own magazine, ëDark Nightsí featuring drawings, poetry, stories, photography and events. All of the members dress very peculiar clothing, and this is a very important part of the life of the group; it is respected with pride, taste and accuracy for the detail. Most like to dress to be elegant in a range of styles from regency to Victorian, some sew their own. In addition members visit art galleries, cemeteries, churches and cathedrals, attend gigs and concerts, and hold their own parties throughout the year, Halloween being the biggest and scariest one. Membership is open to all, the only qualification: being a love of all things Vampyric.   **ItalyOut**
    VampiresLondon02.JPG
  • Family of devotees praying while awaiting to be blessed by the Holy Spirit during a Mass Service at the Hip Hop Church in Harlem, New York, NY., on Thursday, June 22, 2006. A new growing phenomenon in the United States, and in particular in its most multiethnic city, New York, the Hip Hop Church is the meeting point between Hip Hop and Christianity, a place where ëGodí is worshipped not according to religious dogmatisms and rules, but where the ëHoly Spirití is celebrated by the community through young, unique, passionate Hip Hop lyrics. Its mission is to present the Christian Gospel in a setting that appeals to both, those individuals who are confessed Christians, as well as those who are not regularly attending traditional Services, while helping many youngsters from underprivileged neighbourhoods to feel part of a community, to make them feel loved and to help them not to give up when problems arise. The Hip Hop Church is not only forward-thinking but it also has an important impact where life at times can be difficult and deceiving, and where young people can be easily influenced for the worst purposes. At the Hip Hop Church, members are encouraged to sing, dance and express themselves in any way that the ëSpirit of Godí moves them. Honours to students who have overcome adversity, community leaders, church leaders and some of the unsung pioneers of Hip Hop are common at this Church. Here, Hip Hop is the culture, while Jesus is the centre. Services are being mainly in Harlem, where many African Americans live; although the Hip Hop Church is not exclusive and people from any ethnic group are happily accepted and involved with as much enthusiasm. Rev. Ferguson, one of its pioneer founders, has developed ëHip-Hop Homileticsí, a preaching and worship technique designed to reach the children in their language and highlight their sensibilities, while bringing forth Christianity. This ëKeep It Realí evangelism style is the centrepiece of Rev. Fergusonís ministry, one th
    HipHopChurch30.JPG
  • Woman being blessed by Rev. Stephen W. Pogue, the Pastor, while other devotees are praying in silence in front of the altar, during a Mass Service at the Hip Hop Church in Harlem, New York, NY., on Thursday, July 21, 2006. A new growing phenomenon in the United States, and in particular in its most multiethnic city, New York, the Hip Hop Church is the meeting point between Hip Hop and Christianity, a place where ëGodí is worshipped not according to religious dogmatisms and rules, but where the ëHoly Spirití is celebrated by the community through young, unique, passionate Hip Hop lyrics. Its mission is to present the Christian Gospel in a setting that appeals to both, those individuals who are confessed Christians, as well as those who are not regularly attending traditional Services, while helping many youngsters from underprivileged neighbourhoods to feel part of a community, to make them feel loved and to help them not to give up when problems arise. The Hip Hop Church is not only forward-thinking but it also has an important impact where life at times can be difficult and deceiving, and where young people can be easily influenced for the worst purposes. At the Hip Hop Church, members are encouraged to sing, dance and express themselves in any way that the ëSpirit of Godí moves them. Honours to students who have overcome adversity, community leaders, church leaders and some of the unsung pioneers of Hip Hop are common at this Church. Here, Hip Hop is the culture, while Jesus is the centre. Services are being mainly in Harlem, where many African Americans live; although the Hip Hop Church is not exclusive and people from any ethnic group are happily accepted and involved with as much enthusiasm. Rev. Ferguson, one of its pioneer founders, has developed ëHip-Hop Homileticsí, a preaching and worship technique designed to reach the children in their language and highlight their sensibilities, while bringing forth Christianity. This ëKeep It Realí evangelism style is t
    HipHopChurch27.JPG
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