A Bangkok photographer is using his work to promote peace and challenge stereotypes in Thailand’s ‘Deep South.’
Yostorn Triyos is the co-founder and director of the photography platform Realframe. He has now worked on numerous projects centered around political and social justice issues in Thailand. His photos have explored protests calling for democracy in Thailand, the rights of ethnic minorities and laborers, and environmental issues. For the past six years, Yostorn has taken photos centering around peace in Thailand’s ‘Deep South’, a region of Muslim-majority provinces which have experienced separatist violence. In the past few months, he has been involved in two major projects on this topic, including a training session for youth, and an exhibition in Bangkok that challenges stereotypes about the region.
Yostorn didn’t always know he wanted to be a photographer. The 40 year old entered the profession over 15 years ago after working as a campaign officer for an NGO and taking photos of migrants.
“Through photos, I was able to convey the message I was trying to convey,” he told Peace News Network over a video chat.
In August, Yostorn led a training session for youth in the region to do photography about peace. The training, sponsored by Minority Rights Group International, allowed youth ages 18 to 30 to submit their photography portfolios, before participating in a four-day camp.
Tara Abhasakun is Peace News Network (PNN)'s managing editor. She is journalist based in Christchurch, New Zealand, and formerly in Bangkok, Thailand. She has reported on a range of human rights issues involving youth protests in Thailand, as well as arts and culture. Tara's work has appeared in several outlets, including Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post.
