Nurangez Rustamzoda

Title / Format: Photo report – Parliamentary Elections in Tajikistan Description: This photo report captures the parliamentary elections in Tajikistan, held on March 2, in the capital city, Dushanbe. I chose the photo report format to visually document this important political event and show how the elections unfold in the country. Producing a video or other type of report would have been much more challenging, given the circumstances, so this format allowed me to focus on key moments, expressions, and interactions that tell the story of the day. Through the images, the report conveys the atmosphere, engagement of citizens, and the significance of the electoral process in Tajikistan.

Title / Format: Video report – Rudaki Opera Description: This video report explores the Rudaki Opera, dedicated to the great Tajik poet Rudaki, the founder of classical Tajik literature and bilingual literary traditions. The report highlights the challenges of introducing opera to a new generation in Tajikistan, where awareness of this genre has been limited. It showcases the efforts of Tajik performers and cultural figures to adapt international opera traditions to the local context, creating performances based on Tajik and Persian stories in the Tajik language. The video emphasizes Tajikistan’s desire to participate in this global cultural genre while preserving and innovating its own traditions. Through interviews, performances, and behind-the-scenes footage, the report illustrates how opera is being reinvented and made accessible to modern audiences.

Title / Format: Feature story / Video report – Afghan Women Refugees Council Description: This feature story highlights the Afghan Women Refugees Council in Tajikistan and their work supporting newly arrived Afghan women. The report shows how the council helps women build friendships, connect with fellow countrywomen, and develop cultural and creative skills such as storytelling, art, and performing arts. I attended several events, documenting personal stories and the ways the council creates a supportive community. The report also captures cultural exchange, including preparing traditional dishes, and emphasizes networking and empowerment. Through these stories, the report gives voice to Afghan women in exile and reflects the experiences of women still in Afghanistan who face severe restrictions. This project illustrates resilience, solidarity, and the importance of human-centered storytelling.