Considered one of the first professional female photojournalists working in Iran, Newsha Tavakolian is this year’s recipient of the prestigious Dutch Prince Claus Award for her bold and evocative work in the Middle East. Ms. Tavakolian announced that she would be donating a portion of her winnings to an organization which helps Syrian and Iraqi refugees.
“I have worked in both their countries and want to give back to all the kindness Iraqi’s and Syrians always welcomed me with, despite the dire circumstances they live in,” said the self-taught photographer. “It is hard for me to enjoy this prize as much as I would like to, seeing the region where I work and live in flames and tens of thousands seeking refuge in faraway lands.”
