Over the last few months I started reflecting on my age, change, as well as the people and things that are important to me; I was determined to capture that. I haven’t had the chance to photograph everyone that I want to just yet, however, starting this project has pushed me to shoot more and given me an opportunity to spend time with people I love. I am so grateful for everything I have. This is 30.
Ambika
Afolabi
Afolabi is one of the most caring and selfless people I’ve met. Working together on CLIQUE has been a challenge and a blessing, considering how different we are. Afolabi says I’ve taught him patience. He’s taught me optimism and pushed me to be more thorough and thoughtful.
Michael
Michael is genuine, loyal and kind. Michael is one of my oldest, most steadfast friends. Seeing him transform from a goofy kid to a (still goofy) grown-up with a family of five has been inspiring and a great reminder of what is important in life: family and friends.
Akash
My younger brother Akash is so supportive and such a sensitive soul. He was my first friend and reminds me that age is just a number. I’m so glad we’ve had the opportunity to experience everything we have together, even after moving out of our parents’ house.
Madiha
Madiha was one of the first close friends I made in college. She is sweet, humble and honest. Knowing her over the last few years and seeing her strength is a reminder to hug the people you care about whenever you can.
Pramod
My dad is tough, but extremely caring. I have grown to really value his insight and advice as I’ve gotten older. He has taught me a lot and set a great example of someone to aspire to. He says I’ve taught him a lot too, including unconditional love, compassion, determination, communication, appreciation for creativity, following your passion and believing in yourself. In reality, he has been my biggest fan and allowed me to pursue my own interests, which helped me figure out who I am.
Jesley
Jesley is one of my closest friends. She and I have laughed, cried, fought and danced together over the last 12 years. We’ve both seen each other change and grow for the better and I’m so glad we’ve been able to maintain the closeness that we have through it all.
Cybil
My husband Cybil has only been in my life for the last couple of years, but I know we’ve met in another lifetime. He is driven, confident, caring and loyal. He has certainly given me the freedom to be my true self and supports me in everything I do. I can’t wait to grow old with him.
Melissa
Melissa and I have followed each other through each stage of our life since middle school and I couldn’t imagine getting through all the things without having her to confide in. She is thoughtful, dependable, creative and quite frankly, a badass.
To everyone who contributed to this project so far, thank you: Ambika Singh (photographer/producer), Afolabi Mosuro (photographer/model), Stevie Reid and Vision Light Studios (location) and to my family, friends and models: Michael Staines, Akash Singh, Madiha Zahir, Pramod Singh, Jesley Joseph, Cybil Varghese and Melissa Graham.