Miléquêm Diarassouba - Photojournalist and Filmmaker in Côte d'Ivoire
Documenting human experiences in Côte d’Ivoire and beyond
I’m Miléquêm Diarassouba, an international photojournalist and filmmaker based in Abidjan. I capture the spirit, the laughter, the tears, the struggles, and the beauty of everyday life in Côte d’Ivoire and beyond. I celebrate talent and share stories that are authentic, relevant, and impactful. Whether working with NGOs or international organizations, my commitment is to tell stories that resonate deeply and inspire positive change. Explore my photography portfolio, watch my films, and read what my clients say.
Looking for the extra in the ordinary
I find magic in the simple moments of life—like a child’s smile amidst the hustle of the city, or the quiet determination of a street vendor at dawn. These fleeting moments are where I seek the extraordinary, and my work reflects an unwavering dedication to authenticity. Through my lens, I aim to inspire others to believe in their dreams, embrace hope, and never give up.
Empowering Africa through visual storytelling
As a photojournalist, I document not just the human experience, but also talent, innovation, development and sustainability across Côte d’Ivoire and West Africa. My work focuses on creating a lasting impact, telling stories that not only honor the heritage of the continent but also inspire future generations. By showcasing the resilience and efforts of individuals working towards a better future, I contribute to a global dialogue about what it means to leave a sustainable legacy.
Capacity Building and Co-Creation
A vital aspect of my work is investing in capacity building through training and mentorship. I work with young people across various regions, providing them with the tools and skills to tell their own stories through photography and videography. My workshops aim to empower the next generation of storytellers, encouraging them to create authentic visual narratives that reflect their communities' realities. I believe in the power of collaboration, working alongside local communities to co-create meaningful and impactful stories.
Deep Commitment
A graduate of the School of Journalism at ISTC Polytechnique in Abidjan, I have proudly worked with UNICEF Côte d’Ivoire for over 7 years. During this time, I’ve captured the positive impact of their programs on communities and individuals, documenting key interventions and campaigns such as the #NONAME campaign featuring footballer Sébastien Haller. I am driven by a deep commitment to raise awareness on children’s rights and other critical issues across Côte d’Ivoire and beyond.
Freelance Work and Collaborations
Beyond UNICEF, I have worked with international organizations such as Gavi and USAID. As the official photographer for Gavi, I documented the introduction of the malaria vaccine in Côte d’Ivoire in 2024. I’ve also created photojournalistic content for USAID, showcasing community-driven initiatives that tell stories of health, innovation, and development throughout the region. My work continues to shine a light on impactful projects, always with the goal of making a difference.
A multifaceted artist
My creativity extends beyond photography. I direct and produce short films, play guitar, compose ambient music, and even explore architecture and interior design. This interdisciplinary approach fuels my passion for storytelling, whether through the written word, a camera lens, or a musical note. At the core of everything I do is a desire to inspire, connect, and create lasting impact.
A proud member of the photography community
Since July 6, 2023, I’ve been a member of the African Photojournalist Database (APJD), created by the World Press Photo Foundation to connect and elevate African photographers. Being part of this community allows me to collaborate with peers who share my passion for authentic storytelling.
Well-deserved recognition
I have received numerous recognitions for my work, including the Côte d’Ivoire Documentary Photographer of the Year award in 2023. My photographs have been featured in prestigious publications like Forbes Magazine. Since 2019, UNICEF has won multiple Inspire Awards thanks to my video montages, including one in 2023 for highlighting efforts against child labor. This work serves as a testament to the power of storytelling to drive positive change.
Commitment to sustainability and a lasting legacy
My work is grounded in authenticity, depth, and humanity. I believe in leaving a lasting legacy that will positively impact future generations. I’m committed to sustainability, both in the stories I tell and the legacy we leave behind. With a camera, vision, and ideas, we can transform the world for the better, creating a future that honors both people and the planet.
If you’re looking for captivating stories that inspire change, I’d love to collaborate. Reach out for inquiries or opportunities to work together.
