Kiana Hayeri, an Iranian-Canadian photojournalist renowned for her poignant storytelling, has been awarded the inaugural Sir Harry Evans Global Fellowship in Photojournalism. This accolade, presented by the Truth Tellers Summit, provides her with a unique opportunity for a year-long mentorship at both The Globe and Mail and Reuters, allowing her to further hone her craft and amplify the voices of underrepresented communities.
A Journey of Impactful Storytelling
Born and raised in Tehran, Hayeri relocated to Toronto, where she has dedicated herself to shedding light on critical yet often overlooked narratives across the Middle East and Central Asia. Her work, which prominently features the experiences of women and the plight of those facing forced displacement, has garnered international acclaim. Among her accolades are the prestigious Tim Hetherington Visionary Award in 2020, the Robert Capa Gold Medal in the same year, and the Leica Oskar Barnack Award in 2022. Additionally, her photobook, *When Cages Fly*, published in 2024, has further established her as a leading voice in contemporary photojournalism.
“It’s an honour to receive this fellowship, which I believe will provide me with the time, support, and mentorship to continue my practice in a meaningful way,” Hayeri remarked, recognising the significance of this opportunity. “It allows me to deepen a practice rooted in slow storytelling, where photography holds power to account while centring the lived experiences of those most affected.”
Celebrating Groundbreaking Journalism
The formal presentation of the fellowship will take place on May 6 at the fourth annual Truth Tellers Sir Harry Evans Investigative Journalism Summit. This event celebrates exceptional journalism globally and is a tribute to Sir Harry Evans, known for his tenacity in uncovering truths, including his pivotal role in advocating for mothers affected by the thalidomide scandal.
According to the Truth Tellers Summit, Hayeri was “a clear and compelling choice” among a competitive field of candidates, praised for both the emotional depth of her portfolio and the clarity of her vision. The summit, founded by Tina Brown, former editor of *Vanity Fair* and *The New Yorker*, aims to perpetuate Evans’ legacy of rigorous investigative journalism.
The Legacy of Sir Harry Evans
Sir Harry Evans, who served as editor of *The Sunday Times* from 1967 to 1981, is remembered for his relentless pursuit of justice and accountability in journalism. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of reporters who strive to uphold the same standard of integrity and commitment to truth. The fellowship, initiated with the support of Thomson Reuters chairman David Thomson and his family, reflects a shared dedication to fostering high-quality journalism in the face of modern challenges.
A Platform for Change
Hayeri’s work is particularly significant in today’s rapidly shifting media landscape, where the attention given to critical issues can be fleeting. Her commitment to “staying with these stories” emphasises the urgency needed to highlight the realities faced by vulnerable populations. As she embarks on this new chapter with the support of the fellowship, her narrative-focused approach will undoubtedly continue to resonate, providing a platform for the voices that often go unheard.
Why it Matters
Kiana Hayeri’s recognition through the Sir Harry Evans Global Fellowship is not just an individual achievement; it represents a broader commitment to elevating the narratives of those often marginalised in mainstream media. As the world grapples with complex socio-political issues, the need for dedicated storytellers like Hayeri becomes ever more critical. Her work serves as a reminder of the power of journalism to foster understanding and change, highlighting the essential role that photojournalism plays in shaping public discourse and advocating for justice.
