STORIES IN PHOTOGRAPHS

IT is not the disability to speak and hear sounds that make one unable to tell a story but only the suppression of it.

There is a group called the Story Teller in Davao City that encourages deaf and mute children to tell their own stories through photography.

Dennis Tan, founder of the Story Tellers, encouraged his hearing impaired students to tell their own stories through their photographs.

The children found their home in the group since they were able to show their differences and even rise above the ordinary.

"We already have 12 active deaf and mute students who keep on inspiring people by telling stories through their photographs,” Tan said.

They are all excited every time we go to places to take pictures. They seemed to be just playing around but when I looked at their pictures, I’m always surprised.

Apart from Tan, the group is also composed of kind and patient interpreters who help the kids understand what other people are saying. All of them work for pure service without expecting something in return.

Tan added that the group accommodates every child who suffers from being deaf and mute regardless of their socioeconomic status, adding that the group’s purpose is to give hope and equality to all children de-

spite their disability.

Majority of the students have no background in photography but with the help of their team, the kids were able to learn the craft and even excel on it.

Jyzia Blanche Masendo, one of the kids who are taught by the group about photography, expressed through an interpreter that, "I am very thankful to Sir Dennis and the story tellers because I am able to learn new things that give me great opportunities and even allow me to express what I want through my photos."

Ruth Melli Sayo, another Story Tellers student, also said, "I dreamed to become a photographer and I thank Sir Dennis and the Story Tellers because I have learned many things."

"They are all excited every time we go to places to take pictures. They seemed to be just playing around but when I looked at their pictures, I’m always surprised." Tan shared.

You may email them for inquiries through their Facebook page, The Story Tellers.