Leica Camera Offers Photography Experience to LA Teens in Partnership with Wembley to Soweto Foundation

Premium camera manufacturer donates equipment to charity art program, offering exhibition opportunity in flagship store

If there’s one thing Leica knows, it’s that art may be all-inspiring, but it isn’t always all-access. Cameras, lenses, professional instruction—these photography necessities can be hard to come by without the right resources, causing plenty of unseen talent to get lost in the mix. For over ten years, The Wembley to Soweto Foundation has had enough. Offering photography training and on-the-job learning for creative youths, the global charity has sought to change the narrative of art accessibility, encouraging big dreams for creators of the future; And they’ve just met their newest beneficiary.

International camera manufacturer Leica has announced a partnership with the Wembley to Soweto Foundation, donating camera equipment to support their initiatives, including a small, instructive cohort taking place in Los Angeles. Throughout August, eight students from South central and East LA will receive hands-on photographic instruction and an opportunity to show their work in Leica’s flagship store.

“Leica is dedicated to nurturing the future generation of photographers and our partnership with the Wembley to Soweto Foundation is a representation of the type of work we’re invested in,” says Mike Giannattasio, President of Leica Camera, North America. “Together, we can provide the necessary tools, resources, and experiences to forward young photographers in their careers. This makes all the difference in the work we do because we’re able to share our passion through education and professional development.”

Christoph Waltz and student at Leica LA Store Gallery

From the Getty to the LA Galaxy Stadium, the selected students will explore the city through a lens, led by renowned photographer Jillian Edelstein. At the end of the month, the store will feature the portfolios in an exhibition. “Together with Leica, we are able to give back to a younger and diverse generation that would typically not have the resources to explore their passion for photography,” says David Westhead, Founder of the Wembly to Soweto Foundation. “With our collaboration with Leica Camera, we’re offering an unparalleled opportunity for our students. That’s why I’m thankful for this collaboration and excited to be working with Leica as we nurture the future of photography.”

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