Iranian Photographer Donates Part of Her Prize to Refugees

Niyousha Tokalian, an Iranian photojournalist, stated that she will donate part of her 100,000 euro prize to charitable causes, including Syrian and Iraqi refugees. On her Facebook page, she wrote: "When I see the region where I work and live burning in the flames of war and thousands fleeing to distant lands, it is difficult for me to enjoy this prize." According to AFP, Niyousha Tokalian, one of the first female photojournalists in Iran, plans to donate 15,000 euros of her prize to organizations assisting Syrian and Iraqi refugees. She said: "I have worked in both countries, and through this, I want to repay the kindness of the people of Iraq and Syria who have always been gracious to me despite their difficult living conditions." The Prince Claus Fund, based in Amsterdam and active in cultural and social fields, announced on its website on Thursday that it awarded its main prize for 2015 to Niyousha Tokalian. The statement noted: "Niyousha Tokalian is a self-taught photographer who skillfully combines photojournalism with art, providing new images and insights into the lives and experiences of people in Iran and other parts of the Middle East." It continued: "She is among the first female photojournalists in Iran, and her works include political and artistic events, poignant portraits, and impactful series on issues such as the insecurity of middle-class youth, Kurdish female fighters, and the effects of economic sanctions on people's lives." The statement also mentioned: "The visual elements, beauty, and enlightening qualities of Niyousha Tokalian's works challenge stereotypes and inspire the younger generation of photographers in the Middle East." AFP reminded that one of the recent subjects of Niyousha Tokalian's photographs has been the struggle of Kurdish female fighters against the group known as the 'Islamic State' (ISIS). Tokalian stated that she will donate 13,000 euros of her prize to the 'Sheed' award in Iran, which is an independent award for documentary photography. She will also donate another 10,000 euros to the Mahak Foundation, a charity for helping children with cancer in Iran, and 7,000 euros to animal welfare organizations in Iran. Niyousha Tokalian's photographs have been published in major and reputable media outlets, including Time magazine, National Geographic, and Magnum Photos. In 2014, Tokalian returned a 50,000 euro Karmianak Khastion award due to a disagreement with the French foundation over artistic freedom. However, after negotiations with the jury of the institution, she changed her mind and accepted the award. The Prince Claus Award is given annually to individuals or groups primarily active in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.