Rwanda as a country stole my heart. Its history is both disturbing yet inspiring. Known for some of histories most terrible acts of humanity, Rwanda has a serious and troubled past. Today though, Rwanda acts as an example for the world how to forgive, love, show kindness and to embrace our differences not reject them. Our guide was the only surviving member of his family killed during the genocide. His kindness and openness to people who may have once sought to harm him was something I cannot forget. Not only are their progressive views towards each other inspiring but also their devotion to environmental resources and conservation. Shown here, a medicine man who once hunted game like gorillas, elephants or other endangered species, now acts as an educator alongside former poachers in a small village set up to educate tourist in Volcanoes National Park. It is this widespread change in mentality that is allowing the mountain gorillas to rebound so successfully.

Rwanda, 2016

Limited edition fine art print of 100

Photo © copyright by Derek Nielsen