Reema Hamdan, Let's go Communa 13! (Documentary/Photojournalism (ATEP 2017))

Communa 13 in Medellin, Colombia was once the hot-bed of crime, drug use and gang warfare making it a no-go zone for residents, law enforcers and tourists alike, yet over the past few years the government working in hand with the local residents have turned this place around and is now one of the prime tourist destinations in Medellin. Having implemented an escalator system giving residents easier access to the centro, most have found employment, but the remarkable aspect of Communa 13 is the showcase of the local talents being the big attraction. Renowned local graffiti artists have used the streets, peoples homes, parks, benches and whatever else they can find to utilise their artistic skills making Communa 13 a colourful barrio adorned with amazing art. Workshops have been set up to teach the younger residents about the importance of self-expression through creativity. This in turn has created an environment locals are proud of, resulting in a safe neighbourhood, where once you locked your children indoors out of fear, whilst now they are free to roam, soaking up all Communa 13 has to offer.

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