As part of the larger project emPOWER, which is a student-led initiative to develop a sustainable power station for the landfill (and surrounding communities) in Karachi, I volunteered to organize an art project for the children in one of the schools there. The idea was to get a better picture of the people who would directly benefit from the project. Since I was in Karachi for the week, it seemed perfect.

On Friday Momin, Muneeb, Anum, Amna, Hiba, Urooj and I went to the north of Karachi to visit the landfill and the schools there that offer free education to the kids from the surrounding slums. We had organized a painting workshop for about 60 kids, an opportunity for them to express themselves through art and tell others their story and the story of their community.

What we saw shocked us, but equally amazing was the energy, joy and creativity that each kid had. Amidst the burning garbage there was hope.

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar

Photo by Momin Zafar