239 - Kiana Hayeri

This episode explores the experiences and perspectives of photojournalist Kiana Hayeri, focusing on her work documenting the lives of women in Afghanistan and other conflict zones. Against the backdrop of her personal journey—from growing up in Tehran to becoming a renowned photojournalist—Hayeri discusses the challenges and rewards of her profession. More significantly, the conversation delves into the complexities of gender inequality in Afghanistan and Gambia, highlighting the limitations of simple bans on practices like female genital mutilation (FGM) without accompanying educational initiatives. For instance, Hayeri recounts a recent assignment in Gambia where the initial "hero" of the story turned out to be a villain, revealing the intricate layers of cultural and political factors at play. The discussion also touches upon the ethical dilemmas faced by photojournalists who often profit from documenting human suffering, and Hayeri reflects on the bittersweet nature of awards and recognition received for such work. Finally, Hayeri shares her experience of leaving Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover, expressing the guilt and emotional turmoil associated with her departure while emphasizing her commitment to continuing to document the situation on the ground.