Child refugee's educational pursuits illuminated by a lamplight, defying all obstacles, captured in a photograph symbolizing the young one's sense of security.

In Kenya's Kakuma refugee camp, a child's determination to study by the flickering light of a dusty oil lamp is more than just a simple act of education. This poignant image, captured by Dennis Taban Okeny, is a symbol of safety and resilience in challenging conditions, as part of a global photography project devised by youth agency Restless Development.

Okeny, a resident of the camp and the founder of refugee-led art organisation, Fly Bring Smile, believes that safety in his community goes beyond physical security. It encompasses emotional wellbeing, a sense of belonging, and the opportunity to dream without fear.

The project, organised as part of the World Health Organization's campaign to end violence against children, aimed to answer the question: 'What does safe mean to you?' The photography project resulted in 10 powerful photo essays, showcasing stories of vulnerability and hope from within the camp.

Fly Bring Smile, Okeny's organisation, encourages children to express their stories through artwork. This project is just one of the many initiatives that Okeny has undertaken as part of the global photo project, "What does safety mean to you?"

Okeny, who also founded Refugee Voices, is a passionate photographer. His work sheds light on the realities of life in the refugee camp, while also highlighting the resilience and hope that exists within the community. Through his photography, Okeny is not only capturing moments, but also telling stories that need to be heard.

The child's makeshift home, cobbled together from tarpaulin and sheet metal, serves as a stark reminder of the harsh living conditions in the camp. Yet, despite these challenges, the child's focus on education and the light of the oil lamp serve as a beacon of hope and resilience.

This project is a testament to the power of art and photography in raising awareness and sparking conversations about important issues. It showcases the strength and determination of the people in the Kakuma refugee camp, and serves as a reminder that safety means more than just physical security. It means the opportunity to dream, to learn, and to live without fear.