Concept
"Were Afghan Women to Unveil Their Tales" is a project that gives a close and respectful look into Afghan women’s lives, showing what they go through in a difficult reality. Afghanistan today faces many problems, and one of the most serious is the loss of women’s rights and freedom. Since the Taliban took control again, over seventy rules have been made to restrict women’s access to education, work, healthcare, and freedom to move. This harsh environment has greatly worsened the lives of Afghan women, as shown by their own stories and reports. These limits affect women everywhere, from public spaces to their own homes, where they face daily restrictions on movement, opportunities, and even small decisions.
Yet, Afghan women continue to show incredible strength. Their daily choices—like leaving home, running businesses, or organizing in their communities—are brave acts. These actions show a deep determination to hold onto their identity in a society that tries to limit their freedom.
Vita
Valentina Sinis is an Italian photographer living and working between China, Iraq, and Italy. Her work gravitates toward the quirky and unusual. She is attracted to realities and people that normally don’t get coverage in the media. Her pictures have been published in several international newspapers and magazines.
- From 2018 to April 2021 in the VII mentorship program
- In 2019, Valentina was selected as one of the 6X6 Europe Talents, by World Press Photo
- In 2020, Valentina worked in Viet Nam on an assignment for UNICEF
- 2020 Honourable Mentions FotoAward - Marilyn Stafford
- Female in Focus 2020, Winner
- 2020 National Geographic Fund for Journalists recipient.
- 2021 POY Award of Excellence for Issue Reporting Picture Story
- 2022 BBC co-producer for BBC on Broken Princess story
- 2023 ongoing producing and directing a documentary in Sinjar, Iraq
- 2024 Festival Off Arles
- 2024 Jury and exhibition at Les Rencontres de la Photographie Marrakech
- 2024 un/fund shortlist
- 2025 Photofrome exhibition
- 2025 Zeke Award honourable mention
- 2025 Valentina worked in Sierra Leone on an assignment for Emergency ONG
- 2025 Istabul Photo Award Story Daily Life 1st Prize Winner
- 2025 Fotografia al femminile I AM IO SONO 1st prize short story