Ami VITALE

This month, 16mag's featured artist is the renowned photographer and filmmaker Ami Vitale, who has been weaving narratives that emphasize the efforts of communities leading the charge in conservation. Her outstanding work not only highlights the beauty of our planet but also sheds light on the challenges and obstacles that communities face around the globe.

Ami Vitale has been creating unique stories that amplify the work of communities on the front lines of the conservation. Her journey is one of passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to raising awareness about critical environmental issues. She has traveled to over 100 countries, capturing the devastating realities of war while also documenting the remarkable strength of individuals who strive to make a difference. Throughout the year, Ami has lived in mud huts and conflict zones and even donned a panda suit, remaining true to her belief in the significance of "living the story." Her award-winning work illuminates the unsung heroes and communities working tirelessly to protect wildlife and find harmony in our natural world. From remote villages to bustling cities, she encapsulates the essence of human experience in the face of adversity.

Ami has been acknowledged as one of the most influential photographers of her time and was honored as the 2022 Conservation International Innovator Fellow. Her impactful narratives have deeply resonated, encouraging audiences to reevaluate their connection with nature and promoting active involvement in conservation initiatives. In 2022, she was awarded with prestigious prizes from both the Missouri Honour Medal for Distinguished Service and the Lucie Humanitarian Award. These recognitions not only showcase her artistic prowess but also her commitment to making an impact through her lens.

Her recent and urgent film, The Last Rhinos: A New Hope, focusing on the ongoing efforts to save the northern white rhinos and the remarkable individuals striving to achieve this, will debut on the National Geographic Channel on 24 August and will be available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu.

With only two surviving females remaining, the dedicated team of the Biorescue project and caretakers at Ol Pejeta Conservancy are racing against time to establish the world’s first surrogate rhino pregnancy. This groundbreaking advancement could help to bring these magnificent creatures back from the brink of extinction. This isn’t just science at work. It's a deeply human narrative of wildlife specialists, conservationists, and researchers who are motivated by love, hope, and an unwavering determination to repair the damage caused. Following Sudan's death, the last male northern white rhino, every egg collected, and every embryo created has brought us closer to understanding what can be achieved in protecting endangered species. Although the initial surrogate pregnancy attempt was unsuccessful, the team's commitment has only intensified as they continue to learn and adapt. The series showcases the close bonds between rhinos and their caretakers, as well as the unwavering dedication of those fighting for their survival.

The Last Rhinos: A New Hope is a story of courage and of how far we are willing to go to make things right before it’s too late. We should watch and be inspired by this urgent, hopeful mission because saving these rhinos is, ultimately, about saving ourselves.