The world journalism project is our effort to use the best practices in multimedia storytelling. The site is your window into the lives of people you might not know, but to whom you are connected. We've heard we are all separated by only six degrees, and when you see these stories, you'll understand that we are closer to each other than we ever suspected.

Grahamstown, South Africa | 2011 View All Articles

“I am so happy I am a man”

“I am so happy I am a man”

By: Christine Mehta (Contributing: Shayna Meliker)

Boys in Grahamstown retreat into “the bush” for a month or so, after they are circumcised as part of the rite of passage into manhood. They live in tents in isolation there, learning how to be a man. Continue reading

“Idonki!” Donkeys play a vital role

“Idonki!” Donkeys play a vital role

By: Danielle Waugh

Mlunguseli Chaki makes a living with his donkeys. If you visit the township, it’s a good bet the roaming donkey you see in the street is Chaki’s. Continue reading

Beadmaker’s daughter breaks the college education barrier

Beadmaker’s daughter breaks the college education barrier

By: Nate Hopper

The end of apartheid marked the beginning of opportunity. Especially educational opportunity. Nothemba Makinana’s daughter is one example. Continue reading

Albino man’s music salves the soul

Albino man’s music salves the soul

By: Mackenzie Reiss

Thuthuzi is “different.” He is an albino. While that’s made life tough, it’s also fueled his love of music. Continue reading

South side: Syracuse, NY | 2010 View All Articles

Officer’s challenge: Keep kids on “the straight and narrow”

Officer’s challenge: Keep kids on “the straight and narrow”

By: Christine Mehta

“If I can help at least one kid in this school be successful,” says Officer Leon Saddler, “I’m happy.” Saddler is the school resource officer at Danforth Middle School. Continue reading

Homeless, but rooted in his writing

Homeless, but rooted in his writing

By: Nate Hopper

Mervyn Patrick is homeless, but not ungrounded. He finds solace in his writing. Indeed, you can find him online, on Amazon. Continue reading

Fowler student engineers his future

Fowler student engineers his future

By: Jenny Cheng

Unlike many of his peers, Justin Williams will be graduating from Fowler High School and going to college. The soft-spoken, sturdy 17-year-old hopes to become an environmental engineer, and he has set himself apart from peers to be where he is today. Continue reading

Safe streets: She makes sure of it

Safe streets: She makes sure of it

By: Fernando Alfonso

Debbie Anderson’s half-dozen children are grown and gone. But as a street crossing guard, she is still “mother” to many. Continue reading