“I celebrate uniqueness as a human trait and to me it isn't defined by race, gender or what background someone comes from. We have to embrace and love the fact we are all unique and be supportive of that.” Visual artist Djeneba Aduayom is talking to us about the remarkable vision behind her evocative photography. Born in Togo with heritage that also draws from across Africa, France and Italy, Aduayom travelled internationally as a professional dancer until an injury ended her career. She then studied interior design before realising, in 2011, that it was photography where her heart lay. “I am a very visual person so it was amazing to go on that learning curve. Through photography I’ve discovered so much about myself as well as connecting with other people on various levels.”

So far, the people she’s connected with have included the likes of Angela Davis, Miguel and Lady Gaga. But it’s not just the faces of the astronomically famous on which this polymath turns her lens. Currently based just outside of LA, she’s found her own creative community and is using her work to spotlight them. “Los Angeles is the city I chose when I came from Europe. Slowly I discovered that it had a rich pool of undiscovered artists. From my dancing background and from taking pictures, I got to meet some of these creatives who in turn introduced me to others,” she recalls. “It is so important to bring them to the light. For me, community is about uplifting each other regardless of living in the same vicinity. It is about wanting to bring other talents into the creation of a new future beyond preconceived ideas or egos.”