My name is Ayana L.V. I am in 10th grade and go to Garfield High School. This is my third Youth in Focus class and first CCC class. Photography is a medium that has started recently for me in the past year thanks to Youth and Focus. I've learned so much from the CCC this year. I've learned how to use photoshop, build a website and find the value of my art as a photographer. I am so lucky I've had the privilege to be in the CCC 2024 and been able to meet so many amazing people.

For my final photos I decided to choose two photos I took at a basketball court. It was sunny outside and I decided to go out and take some pictures. I love how the sunlight peeked through the backboard and how much contrast the darker colors of the backboard had with the sky. I have always liked photos that are in black and white so I decided that's how I want my photos to be. One other thing that was interesting about taking pictures here was the amount of geometrical shapes and lines. 

In my second photo you see the squares in the backboard as well as in the buildings in the back. Also all the parallel lines that are on the court. Overall I really like how the photos turned out.

Again I would like to thank Youth in Focus for all the support and love you guys have given me. I had a great time in this class.

My name is Ayana and I am 16 years old. This is my second class at Youth In Focus but first time doing the Creative Career Cohort. This class has challenged me to find my own style through photography and what I can bring to the table with my creations. I attend Garfield High School which is located by The Central District where I decided to take my photos. I wanted photos of the Central District because it is a historically black neighborhood that showcases a lot of historic museums, restaurants, and stores from the past and present.

My first photo is a capture of a small family owned Ethiopian restaurant, Adey Abeba. I decided to shoot this photo of Adey Abeba because as the Central District is evolving it is important to remember the traditional restaurants that we still have with us. It is also important because many people moving into the neighborhood will be able to go to Adey Abeba and try new foods.

My second photo is taken of Parnells, a family owned mini mart that is also located in the Central District. Parnell’s is a staple for the community because of the bonds the owners have with their customers and being one of the few family owned businesses left. More and more grocery store chains are being implemented into the Central District but Parnells will always be unique and significant. These places are crucial for us to preserve to protect the culture and community that has been built for us and to keep it for the next generations to come.