Ismael Tamek: The Vibrant World of African Neo-Expressionism

This photo series captures the stunning nighttime beauty of Le Plateau, the iconic district of Abidjan, including the impressive Pont Alassane Ouattara. Through long-exposure photography, Miléquêm Diarassouba pays tribute to this district and its landmarks, such as the emblematic bridges and buildings that majestically surround the Félix Houphouët-Boigny stadium, known as the Félicia. Le Plateau and the Pont Alassane Ouattara, also known as the Pont de Cocody, stand as symbols of the unity and grandeur of the Ivorian nation, their illuminated forms reflecting the vibrant spirit of Côte d'Ivoire.

This photo series captures the triumphant parade of the Côte d'Ivoire national football team through the streets of Abidjan after winning their third Africa Cup of Nations title. The Elephants celebrated their victory over Nigeria, with a score of 2-1, in front of their home crowd. These images reflect the joy and pride of a nation united by football, as Côte d'Ivoire followed in the footsteps of Egypt in 2006 by winning the CAN as the host country

This photo series captures the journey of essential medicines from the national warehouse in Abidjan to the patients who rely on them. Featuring Dr. Carine Codo of the Nouvelle Pharmacie de la Santé Publique (NPSP), it highlights the crucial role of healthcare professionals in Côte d'Ivoire. Through the lens of Miléquêm Diarassouba, in collaboration with USAID, the series showcases the impact of continuous access to HIV treatments for over 300,000 people in Côte d'Ivoire. It is a testament to the power of visual storytelling in raising awareness about healthcare challenges and successes in West Africa.

Explore the monochromatic world of TheDarkQuem, a project where the absence of color reveals the depth of the soul. This collection of black-and-white photographs captures the essence of Abidjan and beyond, bringing life to emotions and timeless moments through the interplay of light and shadow. Each image tells a silent story, a narrative woven into the shades of grey that evoke a sense of intimacy and reflection. Most of these evocative photographs were captured using a mobile phone, showcasing the power of simplicity in revealing the beauty of everyday life.

This page showcases the inspiring efforts of young Ivorians in Grand Bassam, who are working to remove plastic waste from natural ecosystems. Through a partnership between the mission-driven company Jellyfishhh and the NGO Green Ivory, this project focuses on the professionalization of cleaning and depollution efforts. In its pilot phase, it has created jobs and promoted green employment opportunities, all while removing several tons of plastic waste. Explore the initiative that is reshaping the future and promoting environmental sustainability in Côte d'Ivoire.

This page showcases the unique work of Jonas Doubbin, an Ivorian artist known for his innovative use of glass and cigarette paper collage techniques. Jonas collects discarded beer bottles and other glass items from the streets to transform them into artistic portraits on canvas. This selection of his works reflects his creative approach to recycling materials into fine art.

This photo series documents Côte d'Ivoire's historic introduction of the R21 malaria vaccine on July 15, 2024. Miléquêm Diarassouba, in collaboration with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, captured the event from the arrival of the vaccine in cold storage to the first vaccination of a child. Featuring moments with Dr. Sania Nishtar, Gavi's CEO, and healthcare workers, the series highlights a major advancement in the fight against malaria, a disease that claims hundreds of thousands of lives annually. Through these powerful images, the series aims to inspire others to vaccinate and support public health efforts in Africa.

UNICEF Ambassador Murielle Ahouré Demps’ visit to South-West Côte d’Ivoire highlighted the empowerment of young girls and mothers through education and vocational training. The mission captured transformative moments in automotive electricity, the Girl Power initiative, and itinerant teaching classrooms, showcasing the power of mentorship and hope for brighter futures.

This page reflects my seven-year journey with UNICEF Côte d'Ivoire, where I had the honor of documenting the transformative impact of UNICEF programs on children, women, and communities. Traveling to remote areas, I captured the smiles and resilience of those touched by these life-changing efforts. My work, featured by UNICEF HQ and major media outlets like the BBC and Forbes, tells the story of children who remind us that life is not just a race but a dance. Through these photographs, I invite you to witness moments of hope, strength, and the joy of childhood.

This photo series highlights Ibrahima Karaboué, a community health worker in Bingerville, Côte d'Ivoire, who tirelessly raises awareness about diabetes, hypertension, and HIV. Working with USAID's RISE project, he goes beyond education by building trust and offering vital support. Ibrahima creates a safe space for his community, visiting patients at home, providing medications, and ensuring consistent follow-up. His work combats stigma and empowers those living with HIV, turning moments into enduring stories of hope and change.