I am so thrilled to share this incredible project with you today (all images courtesy of Smeeta Khetarpaul).
Smeeta Khetarpaul is a professional in the corporate world, wife, mother of two and seriously talented photographer. I’m also happy to call her my friend, as she is smart, kind, funny and real. So when she embarked upon a project inspired by her deep and emotional response to our presidential election, I couldn’t sign on fast enough.
The project is entitled “100 Portraits of Hope”, and this is what it’s all about:
“This project started with the intention of helping people get over negativity and focus on issues that matter to them. During this process, we refocused our voices to be respectful, constructive and from the heart. It has been a therapeutic and fulfilling journey for us. Hope it does the same for you.
The aim of this project is to bring our collective voices to our new President Donald Trump by giving him a chance to win our support and trust – to let him know how we hope he can #BeOurPresident”.
As someone who does not consider herself “political”, who prefers to be behind the camera instead of in front, and who tends to stay under the radar, I knew that I had to step way outside my comfort zone and support Smeeta in the project. That I couldn’t stand by and say, “oh, I’m sure she’ll get enough participants to reach her goal”.
Because while this is blog is by no means a platform for political discourse, I have used it to share and promote causes I believe deeply in. And I loved the 100% positive and respectful tone that Smeeta has set with this project.
You can learn more about 100 Portraits of Hope on the web site, along with this wonderful read on Refinery29. And do follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. There will be a new portrait posted daily (and yes, you will see me at some point!), with messages penned by the subjects – expressing their hopes for the future.
#BeOurPresident
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Hi! I'm Sheri!
Welcome to my little corner of the web where you’ll find easy, delicious recipes, the best kitchen hacks and simple tips for turning your home into a clean haven that is free of toxins. So glad you’re here!
Thank You Sheri for this feature. I hope that as a nation we can push away our differences and focus on the issues that matter to all of us. I hope that we can become more empathetic and respectful. Hope the readers can find similar hope through this project.
It was a pleasure to be involved and support you Smeeta; thank YOU! 🙂
Your project has so much dignity and grace Smeeta. And yes, I am sure that by reading these thoughtful words from your projects participants , others will feel entitled to their feelings. And yes, will feel hopeful. Thank you! You and your project are a gift.
Wow Sheri. Just Wow. Such dignity in this project.
Thank you for sharing and being a part of it!
Love to you and yours,
Shalagh
Thank you Shalagh – to you too! xo