This week we are talking to the extraordinary DeLovie Kwagala, award winning photographer, artist and fighter for social justice. Identifying as non-binary, DeLovie grew up in Uganda, where they suffered an abusive childhood and learned about survival the very hard way. DeLovie was kidnapped from school at 7 years old, and grew up in isolation, ignored, rejected and sexually abused. But as they grew up and struggled to find their identity, DeLovie found a voice through the camera lens, as well as a means of supporting their young child. After several high-profile assignments, DeLovie was awarded the East African Photography Award in 2021. Fleeing discrimination in Uganda and narrowly escaping war in South Sudan, DeLovie’s story is truly one of survival ‘against the odds’ but also one that is surprisingly full of joy and creativity.
