CEZARY RUCKI

/ Unraveling Identities of Ghetto Classics

Nairobi, 2024

“In the heart of Korogocho, Nairobi's vibrant yet challenging landscape, lies a sanctuary of hope amidst adversity. Here, the Ghetto Classics Program, under the umbrella of the Art of Music Foundation, stands as a testament to the transformative power of music and community. A cultural hub with a special focus on education, where children can discover and nurture their talents, shielded from the burdens of their surroundings.

"In a slum, you cannot appear weak," this statement made by one of the students holds profound meaning, extending beyond physical strength. It speaks to the daily struggle faced by these students - to be true to themselves, to embrace their identity despite the challenges they encounter. In a setting marked by poverty, early marriages, gang affiliations, and the waste trade, the program serves as a beacon of possibility for children and teenagers.

Commissioned by the Althafen Foundation, photographer Cezary Rucki and producer Olga Chukovskaya embarked on a collaborative journey to capture the untold stories and amplify the voices of the students and mentors of Ghetto Classics. Through their lens, Rucki and Chukovskaya peel back the layers of struggle to reveal the resilience, beauty, and strength that define the vibrant community of Ghetto Classics. Each frame is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who refuse to be defined by surrounding circumstances.”

Commissioned by the Althafen Foundation.
Digital photographs on paper, sizes variable.

Cezary Rucki

Warsaw/London