Yessica Morocho is a sixteen year old from the Bronx. She is currently a sophomore at the Young Women’s Leadership school of the Bronx . At a very young age she used disposable cameras as a way to communicate with her older sister who lives in Mexico. Because they were unable to see each other physically, Yessica tried her best in capturing moments. As the years went by, Yessica uses photography as a way to communicate with others and as a way to showcase what occurs in one’s daily life. Not only does she like to capture daily life but she enjoys taking portraits of people as well. Aside from having a strong liking for photography, Yessica also enjoys history , language, culture and traveling. Despite not knowing what lays ahead of her in the years to come or what career path she will eventually take , she will always take pictures
Towards the end of the 5th grade everyone had received a letter in which they were told what middle schools they’d be going to. 95% of my class had been assigned to two local schools around the area. Unfortunately, I was not part of that 95%. I had been assigned to an all girls school that had opened the previous year. I didn’t want to go , but after much persuasion from my mother I had finally gave in.
After almost 5 years at being at that school I’ve learned so much and I’ve also been empowered. Going into the 6 grade I was taught that girls could accomplish anything. “Girl power” is something that I’ve heard since the 6 grade. Growing up the shirts I’d wear from the school would have “girls rule” or “keep calm and girls rule” written on the back. Due to this encouragement that I’ve been given since day one, I’m able to do things without doubting my ability. I’ve compiled a series in which I ask several girls what it means to have girl power and how they would show it in a picture.
Insights
“Girl Power to me means being true to yourself as a woman , to not care about what others think and to do what you believe in.” – Awa, 16
“Girl Power to me means having a sense of pride in your identity as a girl.” – Shakera , 16
“Girl power to me means having supporting other girls and having each others back.” – Isabel , 15