jAYU X Brampton Public Library Showcase
For the last three years, the Brampton Public Library and Toronto-based charity JAYU, have collaborated on an Introduction to Photography Program for Brampton Youth ages 16-29. In the program, youth have access to professional cameras and mentorship. This year, the participants followed the theme of “iAM,” bringing the fundamentals of photography to their stories about belonging and authenticity.
This page features the artists’ statements from participants in the program whose photography was displayed at Brampton Public Library’s Mount Pleasant Village Location as part of Culture Days.
Special thank you to the Daniels Corporation for their support of this program.
THE EXHIBITION
JILLIAN FERNANDES
Wandering across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. From Lower Manhattan to Brooklyn, every step invites new perspectives of New York City's timeless charm. Surrounded by bold architecture, energetic movement and the endearing warmth of the legendary city.
PARISA NAEEM
As both a photographer and henna artist, I use my lens to preserve a tradition that has shaped my identity and practice. My work honours its roots while presenting it through a contemporary lens.
GURKIRAT SINGH
Self Portrait:
Was just in the middle of a practice session with my Dilruba when I caught myself in the mirror and thought, this is exactly what those old musician photographs look like. Never really planned it, just pointed the camera and clicked. Honestly, one of the most surprising shots I've taken of myself.
DSC00756:
On my morning walk down Spadina to the office, I've been trying to put together something honest about how people move through this city. Cyclists are the part I keep coming back to, probably because I love it myself, and this one cutting through traffic with everything else blurring around them felt like it said something real.
ALAYSIA THOMAS
We can often think we know where we’re going, how long it will take, but we truly don’t. We focus too much on the “when” instead of “how.” This image aims to provoke a personal connection to one’s own journey and encourage living in the moment. The vibrant colours of the sunset and the leading lights of the platform create a moody feel. The lights can be interpreted as one’s path, while the green light represents where you are in your journey. Where will you be led if you go north or south? The vibrant colours of the sky can be seen as your dreams.
Growth and nourishment happen when love and care are present. Focusing on my Grandma’s arm as she sprays her plants, along with her pink blouse and spray bottle, the image creates a clear focal point and a beautiful contrast between the vibrant green plant that is over 20 years old. This image portrays my Grandma as the source of the love and care that makes growth and nourishment possible, with her 20+ year old plant as evidence of her dedication. The appearance of smaller pots in the background behind her arm, displays that her love and care continue to nurture and inspire new growth.
ANNANYA JAIN
FARIZAH NAEEM
SMIT RAJPUT
RABEEKAH NAEEM
The theme of my photo series is I AM. Through reflections, city landscapes, transportation, and moments captured during golden hour, I explored the experiences, emotions, and perspectives that shape who I am. The use of mirrors symbolizes self-reflection and growth, while the airplane represents movement, ambition, and the journey toward my future. By using different perspectives and lighting, I aimed to show that identity is complex and constantly evolving. Together, these photographs tell a story about who I am, where I am in life, and who I am becoming.