"What do you want to be when you grow up?" Too many girls around the world have never been asked that question. That's why the International Rescue Committee brought together groups of girls in the Democratic Republic of Congo and in communities hosting Syrian refugees in Jordan to create visions for themselves, and develop a strategic plan for achieving them.
Fatima, Age 11, Jordan | Future Surgeon "In this image, I am examining an x-ray of a patient to see what is causing the pain in her chest. I treat many patients, but the patient I care most about is my father, who has lots of medical issues. To be able to help my father, this makes me feel strong, powerful, and capable." Photo: Meredith Hutchison
Sifa, Age 15, Democratic Republic of Congo | Future Self: Journalist "In this image, I am reporting on several current events in South Kivu for the national radio station, for which I am the Deputy Director. Every day I get to share news, facts, information and the stories of those people I meet with the world. I want to change the issues we talk about." Photo: Meredith Hutchison
Fatima, Age 16, Jordan | Future Self: Architect "When I was young, people told me that a woman could not become an architect. But I dreamt constantly of making beautiful homes for families, and designing buildings that bring people joy. Now that I’ve reached my vision, I hope I am a model for other girls—showing them that you should never give up on your dream." Photo: Meredith Hutchison
Ziraje, Age 15, Congo | Future Self: Musician "In this picture, I am in the future and a famous guitarist, known across the world—a real superstar. I am intelligent, ambitious, I fight for liberty and I defend development. I am kind toward the world and give back to people through my music." Photo: Meredith Hutchison
Fatima, Age 11, Jordan | Future Self: Police Officer "I am a kind, yet serious policewoman who is respected and a role model in the community. People are not afraid of me, but call me when they are in trouble. I teach them how to respect and love one another. I fight for justice. I help the innocent." Photo: Meredith Hutchison
Jeanine, Age 16, Congo | Future Self: Minister of Defence and Human Rights "My goal is to become Minister of Defence and Human Rights and lead the country in easing the pain of its citizens—to create a nation that is peaceful and developed. Here I am explaining a plan I have drafted to help victims of violence to my cabinet. This woman in the image—me—she has already helped many people and she is the hope of the Congo." Photo: Meredith Hutchison
Wissam, Age 15, Jordan | Future Self: Pharmacist "Our neighbour in Syria had a pharmacy, and when I was younger I would go next door and help. As the war started, I watched this pharmacist help the injured. When I saw this I knew that this was an important job and what I wanted to do. Now that I am a pharmacist, I see myself as a role model for girls and a leader changing the world." Photo: Meredith Hutchison
Yvette, Age 13, Congo | Future Self: Photographer “In this picture, I am photographing a model for a fashion campaign. I love showing people their image—I love taking pictures of my friends and family and giving them a glimpse of how they appear, how others see them, how beautiful they may be." Photo: Meredith Hutchison
Yvette’s mother, Congo Here, Yvette’s mother reacts to seeing her daughter’s vision captured in a photograph. What followed were conversations about what it would take to support her daughter to achieve her dreams. Photo: Meredith Hutchison
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