This project aims to document the Beta Israel (Jewish) community of Ethiopia as the current generation seeks to emerge from centuries of concealing their Jewish heritage in public. The majority of the Beta Israel, or Ethiopian Jews, have kept their religious identity private, maintaining their traditions within their homes while outwardly adhering to the practices of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. This secrecy was often necessary due to fear of persecution or social exclusion, and oftentimes, not even the children knew they were Jewish until they were in their 20s.

In recent years, however, a new generation of Ethiopian Jews is courageously stepping out of the shadows, proudly embracing their heritage and seeking to openly express their Jewish identity.

The photographer began working in this community in conjunction with the documentary release Nafkot, Yearning and has the unique perspective of having spent months with the community before the events of October 7th, and returning shortly after. The timing of this work offers a way to explore a microcosm of Judaism outside of the Middle East conflict, shedding light on a lesser-known, yet deeply significant, Jewish experience.

The project invites the photographer to document these transformative moments in the lives of the Beta Israel community. Through intimate photographs of the daily lives of community members, the project explores their homes, synagogues, and local gatherings, shedding light on the quiet yet powerful shift toward greater visibility and self-expression. The photographs capture both the historic significance of this transition and the deep sense of pride that accompanies the reclaiming of their identity.

The goal is to highlight the resilience and cultural strength of the Beta Israel community as they navigate their identity. From the preparation for Shabbat to Purim celebrations, the images offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and spiritual life that the community is now sharing with the world and their unique blend of Ethiopian and Jewish cultures.

This documentary project is ongoing, and the photographer has been waiting for civil conflict to subside in more remote areas where Beta Israel communities live. As one of the few photographers in the world introduced to this community and invited to document their lives, the project continues to evolve and aims to share their story with the world. There is currently a private exhibit of this work on display in Los Angeles.