Meet Ryan Carter
Meet Ryan Carter – a photographer whose camera does far more than capture images; it tells stories of transformation, hope, and human potential.
When Ryan first visited Hebrone School two years ago, he didn't just take photographs, but became a witness to an unfolding narrative of young leadership and community change.
More than a documentarian, Ryan is a storyteller who understands that the most powerful images are not just about what you see, but what you feel, amplifying voices often unheard and creating a global platform for the remarkable Club of Leaders.
Many of you may remember Ryan from an interview he did with Malembe Rise and Eli Kindomba a few years ago. If you haven’t seen it, you can check it out here!
From Ryan:
Two years ago, I first visited Hebrone School with the Malembe Rise team, capturing powerful and inspiring images of the children in the Club of Leaders. Returning this year with Sarah, Brad, and Nick has been especially moving. Often in my work, I meet many people, take their photograph, have a brief chat, and then may never see them again.
One of the wonderful things about working with Malembe Rise is the ongoing story: many of the children I first photographed are still here, two years older and absolutely thriving. Their growth shines through in the environment they’ve helped to shape. They’ve built toilets and crafted benches from local materials, and they diligently sweep and tidy the grounds, leaving Hebrone looking immaculate.
On my previous trip, one highlight was the planting of a small baobab tree - just a tiny sapling back then, full of promise. Today, that tree has grown tall, proud, and impossible to ignore. It now stands above its protective fence, drawing attention much like the Club of Leaders themselves.
Their efforts have reached beyond the school, catching the eye of the local community, the government, and even UNICEF. This recognition has helped earn Hebrone a ‘Clean School’ status, and led to the construction of a new toilet block, a well, and a solar pump that now provide much-needed water and sanitation.
But it’s not just about infrastructure; it’s the children’s smiles, their enthusiasm, and their confidence in identifying problems and finding solutions that truly inspire.
This year, a printed photo book of those earlier images was presented to the Club of Leaders - a tangible reminder of their starting point. Watching them turn the pages, pointing out familiar faces, and reliving past moments was a personal highlight for me. Many of these kids rarely see pictures of themselves, and their excitement and pride were unmistakable.
As a photographer, these are the moments I cherish most: capturing not just change, but growth, resilience, and the boundless potential of young leaders.
Ryan's recent visit to Hebrone School reveals a powerful testament to what your support can achieve. Two years ago, these children started with a vision. Today, they've:
+Constructed toilets using local materials
+Earned 'Clean School' status
+Attracted support from local NGO and UNICEF
+Installed a critical water and sanitation infrastructure
+Grown a symbolic baobab tree that now stands tall – much like their own aspirations
But the most remarkable transformation isn't in the buildings or infrastructure. It's in the children themselves – their confidence, problem-solving skills, and unwavering spirit.
Your donation does more than provide resources. It nurtures leaders. It gives children the tools to dream, to solve problems, and to lift their entire community.
Right now, we're seeking your help to continue supporting these incredible young leaders. Every contribution empowers them write the next chapter of their story.
Donate today and be part of their incredible journey!