As Chapter One closes, here SEEN: One Hundred Chapter Two begins. As the hundred begins to grow into hundreds more, the magic of being seen, shines brightly.
And I know that this wouldn’t exist without you, and then, me.
Photography & accompanying text by Meg Khan © 2020
Essex 2:19pm 04/12/2020
Born in the 80’s.
Single parent household.
Ethnic minority.
Council estate.
From one GCSE to Upper Second Class MSc.
Career: generational wealth.
Muswell Hill 4:12pm 12/12/2020
As we sit and talk, the first coffee quickly turns into the second, and I am reminded of our shared appreciation for this hot beverage.
Michael however, does drink a little more of it, than most.
But this part of his personality, the part where more shines, where he works more, gives more, shares more, simply makes Michael a trusted friend, an incredible, passionate teacher and a wonderful father.
Thames Barrier Park 3:38pm 17/12/2020
There is a type of strength that develops in a young person.
A young woman.
A black, young woman.
A muslim, black, young woman.
A thinking, muslim, black, young woman.
A well-read, thinking, muslim, black, young woman.
A kind, well-read, thinking, muslim, black, young woman.
Sukai; a strength that stands strong. Even when each one of those attributes threaten to oppose her position.
Christ Church Green 4:30pm 15/01/2021
On a rather sunny day as we sat ready for our lesson, our new PE teacher walked into the North gym.
Smiling, beaming as I recall, this energetic and as each of us would learn, very caring person, would go on to teach us more than the rules of Netball for the years that followed.
My teacher, my support and champion, my colleague, my friend but most sweetly of all, the kindest person I would want to share my birthday with!
Wanstead Place 5:06pm 15/01/2021
He is the happiest on the road, the Royal Enfield in full speed, and in the words of Jack Kerouac,
“There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars.” - On the Road
Florence Street 5:40pm 20/01/2021
As we begin our walk in the park a stones throw away from the school where we first met, the minutes quickly turned into hours.
On that wintery afternoon, Zinat, an intelligent, interesting, creative, witty and rather mischievous teenager, shone even brighter.
As I listened to the stories of her first year at sixth form, I realised that her fearlessness in being who she is no matter what, was the very spark that caught my attention back in a classroom in 2015.
Excel London 5:25pm 27/01/2021
Across the ever changing landscape of Canning Town, I look to see if I can spot my young friend. As always that smile greets me minutes before Diamond’s feet reach the exact spot where I am stood.
We very quickly cover pleasantries and then the real conversations begin. I order my coffee and turning to Diamond, I learn that she favours a good old hot chocolate instead.
Diamond is a precious, bright, shining young person. Who, as time passes, I learn is also a fiercely determined, quietly hardworking and astute individual. Who also never fails to bring a smile to my face.
Plashet Grove 4:58pm 05/02/2021
When a few simple and the most important words can be spoken of someone, I think of Zeenat.
A thoroughly good human.
Without exception.
Olympic Park 6:50pm 05/02/2021
To quote the Stoic philosopher, Seneca;
“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”
And such potential shines when Andrei gives his very best, every, single, time.
Hampstead Heath 4:39pm 10/02/2021
“I imagine you taking a leap, right here, with the sun shining brightly behind you, Saimon.”
We share a smile, a trusting nod of the head and with that agree on the idea for his photograph.
You see, Saimon is that leap; bright, full of life and optimism, seeking fun, laughter and opportunity, yet all the while not knowing where he might land.
Mansfield Park 12:07pm 10/02/2021
Growing up in Italy Humaira was surrounded by such culture, beauty, history and friendships.
So when the time came to consider leaving it all for London, the decision had to be based on something more. More opportunities, more potential, more friendships and the unknown more that sealed the deal.
An unknown, this considered, wise young person describes as living, life.
The Crystal 5:00pm 16/02/2021
“I never stop trying.” Megan explains.
And I have witnessed exactly that.
Stratford Walk 7:26pm 16/02/2021
Yes, Saffron really is this beautiful.
Daring too.
Ambitious.
Wonderfully kind.
But no, she does not wish to follow a conventional path. Her current place of work amongst many a politician, proves exactly that.
Royal Victoria Docks 4:15pm 18/02/2021
“I want to be great at whatever I do. I want to learn as much as possible. I want to be a good example for my siblings as my elders have been for me. I want to maximise on this life I have been given. I want to achieve things someone who looks like me, sounds like me, with all that makes me, me, is not expected to achieve. I want to challenge outdated assumptions.”
Anika’s words are important and whilst taking her photograph, I am reminded of the change young people can create.
Western Gateway 5:40pm 18/02/2021
From one creative, Paul Arden; “Your vision of where or who you want to be is the greatest asset you have.”
To another, Jennifer Morais; “My ambition is my greatest motivation. To learn how to dance, sing, play music, winning a place at the Brit School and ticking off each item on my bucket list before I hit my twenties!”
London Aquatics Centre 4:36pm 19/02/2021
There are many sides to Virgilus.
The thinker, the scientist, the comedian, the kind soul, the sportsman, the spirited mind, the quiet observer, the seeker of fun and laughter.
And, the fine young man who stands in front of me today.
Stratford 4:52pm 19/02/2021
A
real
gentleman.
West Ham Park 4:58pm 02/03/2021
The sun shines beautifully. Our conversation weaves its way through so many different topics.
From Bitcoin, tea, family, the education system, neighbours, exclusive trainers, grandparents, the global financial crisis of 2008, philosophy, haircuts, gardens, leaving for university, turning 18, friendships, ideas for the future, knowledge and everything in between.
You see, Rajan, like the sunshine in his photograph, beams full of life. His interest in all that makes up the world around him shines through our discussions that sunny afternoon.
Romford 1:39pm 09/03/2021
It was a Wednesday evening over three years ago when I met Natasha. Chapters, Cover to Cover bookclub was home to a group of wonderful women. Through our love for stories we met each week, book in hand, ready to listen and share our thoughts.
As the weeks turned to months, Natasha’s bright smile, her gentle heart and her ability to be open to any one of the varying opinions, drew me so much closer to this beautiful soul.
Natasha’s own story is the epitome of what made this group so unique. From her sense of adventure, her desire to enjoy life, to her endless ability to stand strong for those she loves.
River Roding 2:00pm 11/03/2021
Such wisdom,
shared.
West Ham Park Gardens 1:40pm 13/03/2021
Our conversation is in full flow, our footsteps guided by the winding path, the weather seems on our side and Tasnim, well she exudes what occurs when potential is truly nurtured.
Essex 2:37pm 17/03/2021
The Renaissance woman of the twenty first century.
Victoria Park 5:07pm 17/03/2021
It had been five years since I had seen Shania and during our long conversation on that rare sunny afternoon in March, I witnessed something special.
Some people, some rare individuals quite simply exude a brilliance from a very young age. That brilliance then continues to evolve, change shape and form, but it always remains.
That afternoon I witnessed how Shania is a great example of that very idea.
Newham 12:25pm 18/03/2021
In the words of the great writer, poet and philosopher, Kahlil Gibran;
“The Smallest act of kindness is worth more than the greatest intention.”
And in you Josma, I see such kindness.
Wilkes Street 3:46pm 27/03/2021
To my nephew,
your fascination with the world,
your desire to learn it all,
your ability to get lost in a new subject or three,
your wonderful wit,
your delightful face,
your charming presence,
your hilarious poetical rhymes,
and your tender, tender heart,
I see it all.
Regents Canal 5:10pm 01/04/2021
FULL
of
LIFE.
Braithwaite Street 4:19pm 03/04/2021
What does it mean to be successful?
There are many answers to this age old question. Yet the answer I learnt on this particular day was noted and underlined. Twice.
“Success is giving yourself permission to do all that isn’t expected of you.”
Powerful words spoken by an incredible young woman, Elisa Rahman.
Sheppard Street 1:12pm 07/04/2021
The coolest kid on the block.
White Post Lane 2:48pm 07/04/2021
Remember this name, Shardae Gordon.
For she will fill the pages of the top fashion magazines,
illuminate many a billboard,
recognised for her tireless commitment,
and her designs, well they will be known within the fashion capitals of the world.
Brannetts Wood 2:23pm 08/04/2021
We talk. Exchange ideas. Share opinions. Consider a range of views. We ask each other question after question, digging deeper into the many topics we cover during our walk in the woods.
Dovydas thinks deeply, he is a spirited young man who has a desire to know. It’s this ability to think beyond the obvious, further than what the eye can see and the mind can consider, that makes him a rather special individual.
I drive away that afternoon, enriched.
Fitzgerald Road 6:31pm 08/04/2021
Educator.
Practitioner.
Careers Advisor.
Progression Coach.
Youth Development.
Passionate Advocator.
Self-Starter, Entrepreneur.
And, this is just the beginning!
Queen Mary University 4:15pm 09/04/2021
She really, really does,
shine,
so brightly.
Stratford Park 11:36am 13/04/2021
“Are you ready?”
“Yes.” Erika answers.
This smiling, gentle individual is filled with a fiery, ambitious plan for her future. Without hesitation.
Next stop, university.
Southbank 1:46pm 23/04/2021
With a great mind, a tender heart, such creative expression, a compassionate soul, an adventurous spark, a witty sense of humour, and such a limitless desire to do and learn.
I present my lovely friend, Harriet.
River Lee 3:10pm 09/05/2021
Occasionally you meet someone for the very first time and you just know. You know that something rather special resonates within that individual.
And you know this spark will only grow, multiply over the years to come.
Jaiden Wisdom is a wonderful example of such an experience.
Canary Wharf 12:04pm 15/05/2021
For Zakir, time really is of the essence.
His achievements to date, his ideas and plans for the future, coupled with an infectious enthusiasm for life, all make for an ever-evolving great story.
Upton Park 11:47am 19/05/2021
A short story.
There was a passion.
So she worked at it.
A skill was developed.
So she worked at it.
That skill unearthed a real talent.
So she worked at it.
A career began to take shape.
So she worked at it.
A young business was launched.
So she worked at it.
Customers turned into loyal clients.
So she worked at it.
A hundred turned into hundreds more.
So she worked at it.
One salon turned into two.
So she worked at it.
There is much more to do.
So she will work at it.
And the story continues…
Leyton Orient Stadium 8:58pm 26/05/2021
When you bump into the wonderful young boy you once knew who has transformed into a young man so many see as a reliable friend, a caring person, a supportive part of so many communities, a hardworking family member and such fun to be around, I immediately grab my camera to capture a smile that says it all.
Leyton Orient Stadium 10:54pm 26/05/2021
He works hard for each of them;
the team,
the family,
the community and,
anyone who might need him.
Central Park 1:52pm 28/05/2021
When a heart,
shines,
ever so brightly,
that it can be seen,
glowing,
brightly on her face.
Royal Docks 3:40pm 02/06/2021
Your words, “I imagine a fair world. Where we can all exist. Without threat or persecution.” Speak such truth, Tiah.
And your generation, well they will ensure such words become a reality.
Camden Lock 1:45pm 03/06/2021
When an instinct becomes a conversation.
When a few words written are many years lived.
When what you see is only part of what you will learn.
When bravery lasts years and many situations.
When there is more to a story.
And now when I’m in Camden, I will seek out this fascinating zombie punk.
Bartle Avenue 3:30pm 05/06/2021
An eleven year old Vilte; strong-willed, passionate and unforgettable.
This wonderfully interesting eighteen year old Vilte; determined, creative and incredibly distinctive.
Potters Bar 4:44pm 06/06/2021
She has been loved,
ever so dearly.
Islington Tunnel 12:10pm 08/06/2021
To design, create, write, print, package, learn, listen, redesign, recreate, rewrite, add a colour, tell the story, share, wait, learn, listen…
and then, start all over again.
This is the way of an entrepreneur, designer, business-owner, A level student and a young man with a plan to do all he can with his life.
Carpenters Road Lock 5:25pm 16/06/2021
Fluent in Dutch, French, Russian, Persian and English.
Working on German.
Planning to learn Spanish and Italian next.
Exceptional?
Ab-so-lute-ly!
Honor Oak Park 6:31pm 23/06/2021
In a kitchen filled with ideas,
a love for food,
years of experience, taste and travel,
mixed in with real talent and a daring spirit,
Melanie creates.
Little Venice 3:28pm 25/06/2021
Rebel with a cause.
Regents Canal 3:38pm 25/06/2021
This wonderful human,
stood here,
smiling,
who fills this space with goodness,
giving only her best,
is all heart.
Potters Bar 2:07pm 10/10/2020
She’s finding her way.
One experience,
feeling,
challenge,
encounter,
impression,
autumn afternoon,
at a time.
In my heart Always Everyday
Your stories, gave life to my stories.
Your ability to look, made me look deeper.
Your interest in the world, fuelled my desire to see more.
And so,
my first hundred, dad,
is entirely yours.