Please read Lisandro's story and consider supporting him by purchasing a copy of this image below. 

 

Nearly a decade ago, I took this photograph on the island of Sal, Cape Verde. I took it simply because he was beautiful — his presence, his light, the way he carried himself. At the time, I didn’t know his name, his story, or where life would take him.

​

Recently, the internet helped me find him. His name is Lisandro. He is shy, kind, and deeply loved by his family. Today, he works alongside his older brother in water sports — a path that pulled him away from the wrong crowd and toward a future he and his family are proud of.

​​

With the consent of Lisandro and his guardian, and by request of the millions of people who saw his photo, this image is being offered for sale in four different formats. While many followers and friends suggested donating 20% of the profits, I have chosen to provide Lisandro with 50% of the proceeds from this print to support his goals — including learning English and pursuing professional certifications in water sports (including windsurfing, a national sport on the island). These steps will help him continue building a sustainable livelihood connected to the ocean he grew up beside.

​

Thank you for being here and for joining this journey. This photograph came from my heart to his, and it has had a profound impact on me. Now, I hope that it — together with the community that has embraced it — can make a meaningful impact on him as well.

​

This is about dignity, beauty, and what happens when a moment is honored responsibly.

​

Thank you for being part of this story.