Centre Photographique de Ouagadougou

As a prime example of what can be achieved through the power of collaboration, Ayzoh! and the CPO launched the ongoing project "Je suis la rue." In this initiative, Warren worked with a group of street children to produce one of the most powerful visual narratives ever captured in Ouagadougou.

This remarkable project not only gained widespread attention from local Burkinabé media but also culminated in a stunning photographic book, available for virtual viewing on ayzoh.org. "Je suis la rue" is an ongoing project, a permanent tribute to the lives and stories of those often overlooked by society, giving them the dignity and platform they deserve.

The center may seem basic or rudimentary by Western standards, but to those who built it — Warren and the local community — it is a testament to strength and resourcefulness. Every brick, every corner of this space speaks to the collective effort to create something meaningful in the face of hardship.

For the street kids, the CPO is a sanctuary, a place where they can express themselves, learn, and imagine a future beyond the streets. But its impact goes further: the center serves the entire community, providing a cultural hub where people can come together, share their experiences, and celebrate their identity. Through photography, the CPO nurtures a sense of belonging and offers a platform for voices that are often overlooked.

As you explore the stages of its construction, you'll see the beauty that arises not from perfection, but from purpose and passion. The CPO is a powerful example of how, even in the most difficult circumstances, a dream can take shape and inspire change.