Tewodros of Kidus Studios in Ethiopia has been working with Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia for more than five years. An exceptionally talented documentary photographer, his work captures both the hardship experienced by women living with obstetric fistula and other childbirth injuries, and the healing and hope made possible through the Hamlin Model of Care.
A skilled interviewer as well as a visual storyteller, Tewodros helps women share their stories in their own words. Using local photographers and interviewers is an important part of Hamlin’s storytelling approach. Their understanding of the culture, language and community context helps create trust and ensures women’s stories are shared with sensitivity and respect.
We sat down with Tewodros to learn more about his work, what inspires him, and what this role means to him.
How did you get started as a photographer?
I grew up on the outskirts of Addis Ababa, where I worked in my father’s small shop.
About 10 years ago, I began working at a photo studio, earning a small daily wage. Because photography was my passion, I taught myself different techniques to improve my skills and create high-quality images.
Over time, I became more sought-after and eventually established my own photography business, Kidus Studio. In the beginning, it was very small, with only a tiny room for photography, but gradually I expanded it into a fully equipped professional studio that now offers both photography and videography services.
When did you start working with Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia?
My work with Hamlin began unexpectedly several years ago, when I was given the opportunity to photograph a graduation ceremony at the Hamlin College of Midwives. After that, I started producing different types of content for Hamlin’s Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital as well as the regional centres.
The more involved I became, the more inspired I felt by Hamlin’s mission. I saw women who had lived with fistula, often in loneliness and isolation, regain their dignity and sense of hope after receiving treatment.
The work is truly amazing and deeply meaningful. I also produced documentary videos for Dr Catherine Hamlin’s birthday celebrations and her funeral ceremony. Working with Hamlin is something that truly fulfils and satisfies my soul.
What does a typical day look like when you are working on a Hamlin story?
My crew and I wake up early and travel with Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia staff to remote villages, where many of the women live.
Sometimes, even after driving for hours on rough, off-road terrain, we still have to continue on foot because their villages cannot be reached by car. Carrying all of our filming equipment makes the journey even more challenging.
When we arrive, many of the women are shy and find it difficult to express themselves. Interviewing them requires great care, patience and sensitivity to help them feel at ease. I usually spend time speaking with them as a friend, off camera, before filming begins. I also encourage them to answer our questions freely, without fear or pressure.
Our priority is always the woman’s comfort and emotional wellbeing. We want to make sure she feels safe, respected and cared for throughout the entire process.
How do you build trust with people you are meeting for the first time?
The first thing I do is introduce myself and explain why I am there, so they feel comfortable before any cameras are set up. I begin with simple, friendly questions, such as the name of the village, what crops they grow, and when the rainy season begins. These conversations help build trust and allow them to relax before filming starts.
I personally prefer having a female interviewer present, so the women can speak about sensitive matters without feeling embarrassed. The most important thing is to treat them with respect and care. Clearly explaining why the interview is being conducted, and how their stories will be used and ensuring their complete consent, also helps them feel secure and comfortable sharing their experiences openly.
Is there a particular story that has stayed with you?
There are many stories that have moved me deeply, but one I will never forget is that of an elderly woman who had lived with fistula for 30 years. She endured decades of suffering, yet her condition was cured in just 15 days — ending a nightmare she had carried for most of her life.
What moments in this work make you feel proud?
I feel proud when I see a woman I interviewed before surgery — sad and without hope — fully healed. It is incredible to interview her again in a completely different state, filled with happiness and renewed confidence.
What do you hope people learn from your work?
First, that many communities live in extremely poor conditions and that their lives are often very fragile. Sometimes, women cannot even afford the bus fare needed to travel to hospital for treatment.
I hope my work helps people see and understand the hardships fistula survivors have endured. Hearing these stories directly from the women themselves brings their experiences to life in a powerful way.
I also hope it helps donors better understand the reality on the ground and inspires them to continue their support.
I believe there is no greater act of humanity than supporting women who have been stigmatised and forgotten by society. I hope I am contributing, in my own small way, to the legacy of dedication that Dr Catherine demonstrated through her decades of tireless service.
- Tewodros
