OF HOPE AND FEAR

This is the story of a young man in Bhutan who is fascinated by Hip-hop and dreams of a better future.

This series follows the life of Kunzang Chogel, an 18-year-old from Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. His parents got divorced, and currently lives alone. Through hip-hop, he forged new friendships and gained hope for a better life.

In Bhutan, the unemployment rate of young people is high and has become a social issue. As prices rise, there are fewer and fewer jobs that can provide a sustainable level of income. As a result, young people grow more concerned over their uncertain future.

Hip-hop has become very popular among young people in Bhutan. Traditionally a conservative Buddhist country, there is a tendency to disregard the youth culture. However, their passion for hip-hop thrives in spite of their fundamental dissatisfaction with society.

This work incorporates documentary photos of Kunzang and the hip-hop community he has immersed himself in. "OF HOPE AND FEAR" interweaves photographs and street art to demonstrate how hip-hop has equipped Kunzang with newfound hope for the future.