INSPIRING CHANGE.

The Role of Photography in Social Justice: How Images Drive Change

Unveiling truths, empowering voices, and inspiring change through photography.

A poster that says a better life for all. With people standing behind the poster.

In today’s digital world, where images are constantly in front of us, the role of photography in social justice is more crucial than ever.

“The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera.” – Dorothea Lange.

In South Africa, where history is deeply marked by apartheid and ongoing struggles for equality, photography plays a critical role in documenting and addressing these issues. A staggering 63% of people say a single impactful image has changed their perspective on a social issue. Photography is not just art; it is power. It’s a medium capable of shaping public opinion, exposing hidden truths, and mobilising communities toward action.

Let’s dive into the transformative role of photography in addressing social injustice in South Africa. From the days of anti-apartheid protests to today’s grassroots movements, photography’s role has evolved, but its importance remains undeniable. Here’s why.

Man standing in a crowd holding up a poster of Steve Biko during the apartheid era.
Photo by Ralph Ndawo

A Medium That Exposes Truth

Photography gives the voiceless a voice. It captures what words often fail to express. Think of Sam Nzima’s iconic image of Hector Pieterson during the 1976 Soweto Uprising. That single shot brought global attention to the brutality of apartheid and became a symbol of resistance.

Why Photography WorksUniversal Connection: Visuals speak directly to human emotion. One powerful image can convey more urgency than paragraphs of written reports.

Immediate Impact: While written accounts take time to process, a photograph strikes instantly. The raw emotion it captures stays with people.

Unfiltered Reality: Photos offer an unvarnished view of events as they unfold. They make it harder to dismiss the harsh realities of inequality.

The Power of Context

Photos are most impactful when paired with their story. A raw image speaks volumes, but its meaning becomes clearer with background details. Consider the haunting photo of a lone shack surrounded by a sea of wealthy suburbs in Cape Town. That image highlights the stark inequalities in housing access in South Africa and compels viewers to question why such disparities persist.

Mobilising Movements Through Imagery

Photography doesn’t just document. It propels movements. From anti-apartheid protests to modern campaigns against gender-based violence, visuals have driven change.

Historical Examples

Apartheid Resistance: Ernest Cole’s photographs of daily life under apartheid exposed the dehumanizing conditions faced by Black South Africans. These images were smuggled out of the country and published internationally, rallying global opposition to apartheid.
Sharpeville Massacre: Images of the 1960 massacre, where police opened fire on unarmed protesters, shocked the world and increased pressure on the apartheid government.
Marikana Massacre (2012): Photos of striking miners being killed by police reignited conversations about labor rights and the deep economic inequalities that remain in post-apartheid South Africa.

Modern-Day Movements

Fees Must Fall (2015): Photos of students clashing with police during protests for free education highlighted ongoing struggles for economic justice. These images galvanized support for the movement across the country.
Gender-Based Violence Protests: Images from demonstrations, such as #AmINext, put faces to the names of victims and pushed gender violence into the national spotlight.

Challenges in Capturing Social Injustice

Photographing social injustice isn’t without risks. It often puts the photographer in dangerous or ethically complex situations.

Ethical Dilemmas

Exploitation vs. Documentation: How do you document suffering without exploiting it? Ethical photography requires balancing awareness with dignity.

Misrepresentation: A powerful image can be misleading if stripped of its full context. Photographers must ensure their work reflects the truth.

Privacy Concerns: Capturing someone’s pain without consent can feel invasive. Photographers must tread carefully.

Personal Risks

South African photojournalists often face intimidation, physical harm, or arrest, particularly when documenting protests or government failures.

Freelancers frequently lack institutional support, leaving them financially and legally vulnerable.
Despite these challenges, photographers persist because the cost of silence is greater than the risks they face.

Image taken by Keith Bernstein.

How Photography Sparks Action

Awareness is only the first step. Photography has the unique ability to push people from passive observation to active participation.

Fundraising and Donations

Heart-wrenching images are at the heart of many successful fundraising campaigns. Consider the use of photos highlighting the conditions in informal settlements, which have driven donations to NGOs working to improve access to water and housing.

Policy and Legal Reforms

Images can compel lawmakers to act. Photographic evidence of police brutality or unsafe mining conditions has led to national debates and, in some cases, policy changes.

Social Media’s Amplifying Effect

Platforms like Instagram and Twitter have democratised photography. Now, anyone with a smartphone can document injustice and share it instantly. This makes it harder for those in power to deny responsibility or suppress the truth.

If you’re a photographer passionate about documenting social injustice, here’s how to make your work impactful:

Research Thoroughly: Understand the context before shooting. Meet the people involved and hear their stories.
Be Respectful: Always obtain consent when possible. Treat your subjects with the dignity they deserve.
Stay Authentic: Avoid staging or manipulating scenes. Let the truth speak for itself.
Collaborate With Activists: Partner with NGOs or grassroots movements to amplify your impact.
Distribute Wisely: Share your work on platforms that reach the right audience. Consider pitching to local and international media outlets.

A group of three men playing a game on the street. Behind them is a wall with graffiti saying "We Wont Move".
In Sophiatown the people said “We Won’t Move!.”…and when the police arrived that first day people banged and tapped with stones and iron bars against the lamposts, and Sophiatown echoed in defiance….
Jurgen Schadeberg, 1955.

The Future of Photography in Social Justice

As technology evolves, so does photography’s role in documenting injustice. Drones and AI-assisted tools are helping document hard-to-reach areas. Virtual reality is offering immersive ways to experience inequality firsthand.
But with innovation comes responsibility. The rise of doctored images means photographers and viewers alike must remain vigilant in ensuring authenticity.

The role of photography in social injustice is not just to capture moments but to inspire change. It’s a witness and, at times, a catalyst. In South Africa, photography has been a powerful tool for exposing inequality and mobilising action, from the darkest days of apartheid to today’s struggles for equality. As photographers and global citizens, we hold the responsibility to use this medium wisely and ethically. Let’s ensure our images don’t just evoke emotion, they drive action.

people standing on top of billboard
“Vote for jobs, Peace and Freedom.” – taken by Keith Bernstein.

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Preserving South African Photography

Introducing the Photographic Archival & Preservation Association of South Africa (PAPA-SA)

Safeguarding the Legacy of South African Photographers for Future Generations.

Gavin Furlonger talking to an audience about South African Photography


We are proud to introduce the Photographic Archival & Preservation Association of South Africa (PAPA-SA) and its initiative, Gallery F. A premier platform for fine art photography. Created by acclaimed photographer Gavin Furlonger and along with his son, Sean Furlonger, PAPA-SA is dedicated to safeguarding the rich photographic heritage of South Africa while promoting its artistic excellence to a global audience.

black and white photo of a photography gallery
Gallery F

A Platform for Photographic Excellence


Through Gallery F, PAPA-SA curates a diverse and exceptional collection of works that embody South Africa’s vibrant history, culture, and landscapes. From the breathtaking beauty of our natural world to the deeply personal stories of our people, every photograph tells a unique story, offering a glimpse into the Spirit of South Africa.

Our Mission: Preservation and Promotion

At PAPA-SA, we believe photography is more than art. It is a historical record that must be preserved and celebrated. Our mission is twofold: to safeguard the legacy of South African photographers, both past and present, and to amplify their voices on the global stage. By promoting these works, we ensure the stories of South Africa are shared and remembered.

Supporting Emerging South African Talent


We are passionate about nurturing the next generation of South African photographers. Gallery F serves as a launchpad for emerging artists, providing a platform to showcase their work to collectors and enthusiasts. Through exhibitions, mentorship, and collaborations, PAPA-SA fosters fresh talent, ensuring the continued evolution of South African photography.

Educating and Engaging the Public


PAPA-SA is committed to raising awareness about the cultural and historical value of photography. We offer workshops, talks, and digital content that inspire audiences to delve deeper into the stories behind the images and the artists who create them. By fostering education and appreciation, we build a community that values and supports photographic art.

Limited Edition Prints for Discerning Collectors

Through Gallery F, PAPA-SA offers exclusive limited edition prints, meticulously crafted to the highest standards. Collectors receive not only a beautiful piece of photography but also the opportunity to support the preservation of South African photography. Each print is a meaningful investment in the legacy of this vital art form.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Our Reach

Our vision is to elevate South African photography on the global stage. PAPA SA strives to bring local talent to international audiences, fostering recognition and appreciation for the stories captured through the lens. By continually supporting artists, preserving photographic heritage, and expanding our impact, we aim to ensure that South Africa’s rich narratives are celebrated worldwide.

Join Us in Our Mission

We invite you to explore Gallery F, attend our exhibitions, and participate in our programs. Whether you’re a photography lover, collector, or someone who admires the beauty of photography, PAPA-SA offers something truly special. Together, we can preserve and celebrate the extraordinary photographic talent South Africa has to offer.

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MADIBA DAY.

Remembering Nelson Mandela: A Visionary Leader’s Impact.

Today we celebrate the stories of our photographers who have documented certain events in Nelson Mandelas Life.

A billboard of Nelson Mandela. A group of young men standing on top of the billboard.

Nelson Mandela’s Enduring Influence: Justice and Unity.

Nelson Mandela (1918–2013) was a South African anti-apartheid activist, politician, and statesman. Born on July 18, 1918, in Mvezo, South Africa. Mandela dedicated his life to dismantling apartheid—a system of racial segregation enforced by the government. His journey included imprisonment, negotiations, and ultimately becoming South Africa’s first Black president in 1994. Mandela’s legacy extends beyond politics; his commitment to justice, equality, and human rights continues to inspire generations worldwide.

Photo by Keith Bernstein
Madiba Dancing with School Children – Keith Bernstein.
A better life for all – – Keith Bernstein.
Madiba Sitting in his home – Keith Bernstein.
Photo by Keith Bernstein.

Capturing Mandela: Keith Bernstein’s Iconic Photography

Keith Bernstein, a seasoned photographer, has left an indelible mark through his extensive work capturing Nelson Mandela’s life. His career began after leaving school, with his first paid job photographing The Clash at London’s Rainbow Theatre. Bernstein had the privilege of extensively photographing Mandela—from his election as president until his 90th birthday. Many of Bernstein’s pictures of Mandela now form a traveling exhibition organized by Global Citizen. His images provide a unique reflection of Mandela’s various moods and modes, capturing both public and private moments. Notably, Mandela once shared with Bernstein that the greatest moment of his life was meeting The Spice Girls—an unexpected and endearing revelation. Keith Bernstein’s photographs immortalize Mandela’s legacy, offering glimpses into the soul of a remarkable leader.

View Keiths Exhibition Memories Of Mandela, Exhibited at Mandela Center in Johannesburg.

Nelson Mandela & Bill Clinton in Madiba’s Jail Cell on Robben Island – Juhan Kuus.

Nelson Mandela greeting Fidel Castro, the Cuban Leader as he arrives for the opening of the 12th Non Aligned Movement summit in Durban, 1998. Juhan Kuus
Nelson Mandela & Bill Clinton walking together out of Madiba’s Jail Cell on Robben Island – Juhan Kuus.
Nelson Mandela, Bill Clinton & Hilary Clinton on Robben Island – Juhan Kuus.

Juhan Kuus: Legendary Photographer of Apartheid and Mandela

Juhan Kuus, an internationally renowned photographer, made a significant impact through his powerful work during his 45-year career. Kuus documented the apartheid era, the resistance movement, and Nelson Mandela’s journey toward the presidency. His iconic images transcend mere documentation, revealing the essence of humanity in the face of adversity. Notably, Kuus is the only photographer of Estonian descent to have won the prestigious World Press Photo Award twice. His work goes beyond news photography, delving into deeply humane stories about South African people and their traditions. One of his most famous images features Mandela and Bill Clinton together in prison on Robben Island, capturing a pivotal moment in history.

photographer Jürgen Schadeberg with Nelson Mandela and fellow photographer Alf Khumalo.
Nelson Mandela revisits his cell on Robben Island, 1994. Jurgen Schadeberg
Nelson Mandela – Jurgen Schadeberg
Nelson Mandela – Jurgen Schadeberg
Nelson Mandela – Jurgen Schadeberg
Nelson Mandela – Jurgen Schadeberg

Schadeberg’s Timeless Images: A Visual Journey of South Africa

Jürgen Schadeberg (1931–2020) was a German-born South African photographer and artist. He played a significant role in documenting South African history, capturing iconic moments such as Nelson Mandela at Robben Island prison. Schadeberg’s lens also focused on other pivotal events, including the Defiance Campaign of 1952, the 1956 Treason Trial, and the Sophiatown jazz scene. His famous photograph of Mandela peering through the bars of his prison cell remains a powerful image, recognized as one of the 50 most memorable of the 20th century. Schadeberg’s work provides a visual narrative of South Africa’s struggle for freedom and justice.

jurgen schadeberg standing infront of his photograph of Nelson mandela in his prison cell.

67 Minutes of Service Tradition:

The 67 minutes concept is central to Mandela Day.

It represents the 67 years that Nelson Mandela dedicated to public service, activism, and fighting for human rights. During his life, Mandela worked tirelessly to dismantle apartheid, promote reconciliation, and build a united South Africa. The idea is that each person contributes at least 67 minutes of their time to community service, volunteer work, or acts of kindness. This mirrors Mandela’s commitment to positive change. People engage in various activities, such as cleaning up neighbourhoods, assisting at shelters, planting trees, or supporting local charities. The goal is not just to give time but also to inspire ongoing efforts beyond that single day. How You Can Participate: On Mandela Day, consider: Volunteering at a local organisation or charity. Helping a neighbour in need. Donating food, clothing, or other essentials. Educating others about Mandela’s legacy. Advocating for social justice and equality. Remember that small actions can collectively create a significant impact.

In summary, Mandela Day and the 67 minutes tradition encourage us to honour Madiba’s legacy by actively contributing to positive change in our communities.

If you want to get invloved, visit https://www.mandeladay.com/ to see how you can help.

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group of men posing for the camera, all are having a good time.

Exploring the Rich Heritage of Cape Minstrels: Juhan Kuus and the Kaapse Klopse.

He possessed a certain manner that inspired trust in his subjects, granting him the privilege to capture the intimate and up-close photographs you now behold.

From Kaapse Klopse to Iconic Photos: Juhan Kuus’s Journey

Juhan Kuus, the renowned South African photojournalist, had a unique way of connecting with Cape Town locals. His inquisitive nature led him to befriend and closely interact with the subjects he captured through his lens. The trust he built allowed him to take intimate, up-close photographs that reveal the essence of his subjects. In one classic image, Juhan spends quality time with a group of Kaapse Klopse, also known as the Cape Minstrels.

Beyond 1994, South Africa’s rich cultural diversity and heritage gained global recognition. In Cape Town, a vibrant tourist destination, the annual Minstrel Festival takes center stage on January 1st, known as Tweede Nuwe Jaar (Second New Year). During this festive event, thousands of people adorned in colorful attire parade through the city streets as part of organized Klopse troupes. Their performances, including singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments, have become an integral part of Cape Town’s popular culture. Understanding the festival’s history and significance within the broader context of South African heritage is essential.

Read more about the Kaapse Klopse here: https://www.capetownmagazine.com/kaapse-klopse


Man singing as part of the group of Cape Minstrels.
Man singing as part of the group of Cape Minstrels.
group of Cape Minstrels, signing and dancing together.
group of Cape Minstrels, signing and dancing together.

During the late 1990s, Kuus immersed himself in the vibrant world of the Cape Minstrels. These colorful and spirited performers, with their flamboyant costumes and lively music, captivated him. He spent countless hours documenting their lives, parades, and celebrations. His lens captured the essence of their culture, the rhythm of their songs, and the joy that radiated from their performances.

In 2001, Kuus unveiled his photographic series titled “Cape Minstrels Carnival”. The collection showcased the exuberance, resilience, and rich heritage of the community. Each photograph was a testament to their spirit, their history, and their place in South African society.

The images revealed the intricate details of their costumes—the sequins, feathers, and bold colors that adorned their outfits. Kuus’s lens also captured the sweat on their brows as they danced and sang through the streets of Cape Town. These were not just photographs; they were visual narratives that transported viewers into the heart of the carnival.


Cape Minstrels queuing behind a broken down car
Two women cheering on the Cape Mintrels sitting in a bus.
group of cape minstrels in a bus on their way to the event.
group of cape minstrels in a bus playing instruments on their way to the event.
three cape minstrels laughing at each other
Close up photo of two cape minstrels singing. Both are missing their front teeth.
crowd of by standers cheering on the cape minstrels.
Man painted in white crossing the photo whilst by standers cheer him on behind.
two kids smiling with their faces painted.
lady like man smiling for the camera, dressed in cape minsttrel clothing.

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Group of men baptising a man in the river in South Africa.

ZION CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Juhan spent a considerable amount of time going back and forth to document these gatherings and captured some truly remarkable images.


The ZCC, the largest and fastest-growing independent church in Africa during the 1990s, boasts an estimated 2 to 6 million members across 4,000 parishes. These devoted followers primarily reside in both urban townships and rural communities. The church is commonly referred to by its abbreviation, ZCC, pronounced as “zed-see-see.”

Juhan spent a considerable amount of time going back and forth to document these gatherings and captured some truly remarkable images.

Man dancing in the gravel infront of a group of men during a church ceremony.

Man dancing in the gravel infront of a group of men during a church ceremony.
Man in uniform posing for the camera in the infront of a group of men during a church ceremony.


portrait of a male journalist with a plaster and blood on his face.

Juhan Kuus

During the height of his career from 1986 to 2000, Juhan Kuus, from Estonian descent, served as the South African correspondent for the Paris and New York editorial offices of the renowned Sipa Press Agency. Founded in France in 1973, Sipa Press Agency was a prominent name in the world of journalism.

Kuus’s impactful works graced the pages of prestigious newspapers and journals globally, including The Times, The Independent, The New York Times, Paris Match, and The Los Angeles Times. His lens captured stories that resonated across borders, leaving an indelible mark on the field of photojournalism.


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DISCOVERING DISTRICT SIX: A CAPTIVATING PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY.

In District Six, cobblestone streets whispered secrets, laughter echoed off colorful facades, and love and pain danced an intricate tango. Memory’s lens captured it all—the joy of neighbors sharing stories over fragrant curries, the sorrow etched into weathered doorframes, and the ache of homes torn down. Graffiti murals defiantly preserved love, while pain seeped through cracked windows, aching for lost connections. District Six, a resilient canvas, bore witness to both community bonds and brutal displacement

Remembering District Six: Stories of Strength and Diversity.

District Six, a historic neighbourhood on the outskirts of Cape Town’s city center, has a poignant and inspiring story. Established in the 19th century as the Sixth Municipal District, it derived its name from this designation. However, its earlier unofficial moniker was ‘Kanaldorp,’ likely inspired by the network of canals crisscrossing the city. To access District Six, one had to traverse these canals (with ‘kanaal’ being the Afrikaans word for ‘canal’). Over time, the community also referred to it as ‘Kanaladorp,’ perhaps influenced by the Indonesian word for ‘please’ (‘kanala’), resulting in a fusion of meanings.

Before its tragic destruction during the Apartheid era, District Six exemplified diversity across language, religion, economic class, and geographical origin. It stood as a living testament to how diversity could strengthen a community rather than be a cause for fear. This vibrant neighbourhood included freed slaves, merchants, artisans, labourers, and immigrants, all closely connected to the city and its port. In stark contrast to the Apartheid government’s narrative, District Six embodied unity and resilience, challenging the divisive beliefs they sought to instill after coming to power in 1948.



District Six, Dave Levin, 1968.
Woman leaving house in Bo Kaap, Cape Town street 1050s. Photo by Ginger Odes. Gallery F
Ginger Odes Fashion Shoot 1950’s

Paul Alberts, Ginger Odes, Juhan Kuus, Dave Levin, Gunther Komncik and Desmond Bowes Taylor—all armed with cameras—wandered through the vibrant streets of District Six. Their purpose? To engage with the community, capture its essence, and document its stories. District Six, before its heartbreaking destruction during the Apartheid era, was a microcosm of diversity. It transcended language, religion, economic class, and geographical origins. Within its boundaries, freed slaves, merchants, artisans, laborers, and immigrants coexisted, forming a rich tapestry of humanity.

District Six, Cape Town. 1970s. Suburb on the outskirts of Cape Town from which whole communities were forcably removed by the Apartheid government.
District Six, Cape Town. 1970s. Suburb on the outskirts of Cape Town from which whole communities were forcibly removed by the Apartheid government.
Gallery F, photographer Gunther Komnick, Gavin Furlonger, Sean Furlonger, Cape Town Gallery, photography gallery, photography Cape Town, apartheid, Cape Town, Cape Town art gallery, journalism, South African journalism, press photography, street photography, Cape Town street photography, District Six photography
Gunther Komnick, District Six. 1960’s

These photographers sought more than just images; they aimed to preserve memories. They documented the everyday lives, struggles, and resilience of the locals. Their lenses captured the spirit of a place that stood in stark contrast to the divisive ideology propagated by the Apartheid government. District Six was a living testament to the strength found in unity—a beacon of hope that challenged the oppressive narratives of the time.

Dave Levin, 1968.
Dave Levin, 1968.

Juhan Kuus, in particular, left an indelible mark. His photographs of the forced removals in District Six during the 1970s serve as haunting reminders of a community uprooted, homes demolished, and lives forever changed. Through their work, these photographers immortalized the soul of District Six, ensuring that its legacy endures even after its physical landscape was torn down.

Dave Levin, 1968.
Dave Levin, 1968.
Gallery F, Juhan Kuus, Gavin Furlonger, Sean Furlonger, Cape Town Gallery, photography gallery, photography Cape Town, apartheid, Cape Town, Cape Town art gallery, journalism, South African journalism, press photography, street photography, Cape Town street photography, District Six corner Street
District Six, Cape Town. 1970s. Suburb on the outskirts of Cape Town from which whole communities were forcibly removed by the Apartheid government.
Gallery F, Juhan Kuus, Gavin Furlonger, Sean Furlonger, Cape Town Gallery, photography gallery, photography Cape Town, apartheid, Cape Town, Cape Town art gallery, journalism, South African journalism, press photography, street photography, Cape Town street photography, District Six corner Street
District Six, Cape Town. 1970s. Suburb on the outskirts of Cape Town from which whole communities were forcibly removed by the Apartheid government.
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