Portrait nominee

In southern Ethiopia lies the Omo Valley, a land of unparalleled cultural diversity where people live today much as they have done for thousands of years. It is a hard life in a tough environment and survival demands mental and physical fortitude that has bred a population of formidable warriors. I have seen women, who would have been long-retired in the west, working the fields, fetching water and carrying staggeringly heavy bundles of firewood, all for the wellbeing of their families. They are the most fiercely resolute people that I have ever encountered.

The women in this series are from the Hamer and Arbore tribes.

Mike Dexter is a professional wildlife and cultural photographer with over 15 years experience and a degree in photojournalism. He leads photographic safaris throughout Africa where he shares his passion and expertise with aspiring photographers. He also works with conservation NGOs to document their critical projects and highlight the importance of preserving our natural world and to raise awareness and support for these vital initiatives.