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The Conversation

Factual: Life Stories

Two women from different parts of the world share the stories of their lives

Two women from different parts of the world, united by a common passion, experience or expertise, share the stories of their lives.

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The Conversation: Photographers: Farzana Wahidy and Xyza Bacani

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Photographers Farzana Wahidy and Xyza Bacani

15/02/2016 GMT

Photographers: Farzana Wahidy and Xyza Bacani

BBC World Service - The Conversation, Photographers: Farzana Wahidy and Xyza Bacani

Two women who use photography to expose hidden lives in Afghanistan and Hong Kong

"My mum told me that photography is only for rich people", an ex-domestic worker turned photographer talks to a pioneering Afghan photojournalist about challenging social stigmas

Farzana Wahidy grew up under the repressive Taliban regime in Afghanistan and as a young girl was banned from studying. Encouraged by her father she attended an underground school, and even set up her own at the age of 14. She later became the first Afghan female photographer to work for international press agencies AFP and AP. Farzana's photos range from street violence to leisurely meals and festivities, from scenes of war brutality to veiled moments of happiness. One of her unique techniques is shooting photos from behind a burkha.
   
Xyza Bacani's black and white photographs uncover the hidden world of domestic workers and victims of human trafficking. She can relate to their plight very well. Originally from the Philippines, she later moved to Hong Kong where together with her mother she looked after six children. Through her poignant images she wants to bring the lives of domestic workers to light. Xyza's work has been published in Vogue Italia and she's now showcasing her first solo exhibition in Manila.

(L) Farzana Wahidy. Credit: Meg Prudhomme.
(R) Xyza Bacani. Credit: Jan Gonzales.

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