Hashim Mohammed Zakaria
January 20, 2025
AT OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY

A Survivor’s Story of Loss and Reunion This photograph depicts
a survivor who tragically lost his six-month-old sister in the war.
Amid the chaos and heartbreak, he managed to reunite with his cousins,
in Dayton, OH, U.S

I was working on Genocide project, describing to my children the harrowing stories of how the houses were burned to the ground during the 2023 second Genocide of Dar-Masalit, Sudan
Art is a powerful tool for delivering messages and influencing societies. Many artists have utilized various tools, such as painting, music, photography, and more, to convey meaningful messages that highlight humanitarian and societal issues.
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to study at Ohio State University, where I am pursuing a degree in Public Policy Analysis, focusing on education policy. As part of my general academic requirements, I chose a photography course to fulfill one of the program’s components. This allowed me to explore art as a tool of expression.
Seizing this opportunity, I participated in the 33rd Annual Edith John Fergus Family Art Exhibition, where the winning works are displayed at Ohio State University from January 6 to January 17, 2025.
My submission focused on documenting the genocide in Darfur, particularly in Dar Masalit. I am deeply honored to have been selected as one of the 19 winners whose works were chosen for this prestigious exhibition.
I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the John Fergus Family for their unwavering support of the arts, to Ohio State University for providing this platform for artistic expression, and to everyone who encouraged me and stood by my side throughout this journey. Your support and inspiration were invaluable and made this achievement possible.