As journalists on assignments at home and abroad we are previliged guests in all kinds of environments. As a general rule people we meet are friendly and helpful, going out of their way to help us in our work and for us to feel welcome. Even in the poorets of countries.

Felix Features wants to give something in return. In 2005 Fredrik Naumann took up a collection of used cameras, in cooperation with the Norwegian Pressphotographers Club and with practical help from the Norwgian Army. Approx. 100 kilo of camera equipment was was subsequently donatet to Aïna Photo in Kabul, Afghanistan. Felix Features has descided to continue the support for Aïna.

Aïna Photo is a part of the NGO Aïna, working with media and culture, founded by National Geographic photographer Reza. Not only have they started several newspapers and magazines, radio and cultural projects, they have also trained photojournalists and started the first independent photo agency in Afghanistan. It is natural for us to want to support the efforts to establish a photojournalist community in Afghanistan, and we particularly want to encourage female photojournalists.

The Norwegian government has stated that support for new independent media is vital for the democratization of a country like Afghanistan. Unfortunately we've found there is little help to be had from the same government. Hence our appeal to friends, colleuges, media organisations and others, to help.

From left Fardin Waezi, Freshta Kohistani and Wakil Kohsar having a look at the camereas they were given in August 2005. On the far right, the founder of Aïna, photographer Reza of National Geographic. Photo: Fredrik Naumann.

This is how we aim to help:

1) We hope to find sponsors (you!!) . We hope our goal of contributing 250 US Dollar to Aïna monthly is realistic. This represent a reasonable monthly salary in Kabul, and we want the money to go towards training or assignments for female photojournalists.

2) Felix Features promotes Aïna Photo in Norway and anywhere we can.

3) We promote Aïna services, that apart from their photography includes translators, fixers, transport etc. for visiting journalist.

This is how you can help:

Donate money towards our monthly goal. You can do this directly to Aïna Photo, click here for PDF file describing how.

You can also pay by using Paypal, described under "Help Aïna" at this link: http://www.ainaworld.com/statiques/en/index.htm

Put "for Aina Photo" in the message field (and whatever else you would like).

If you need features or news pictures from Afghanistan for your media, purchase them from Aïna.

When going to Kabul use Aïna for photographic or other services.

You find their details on http://www.ainaphoto.org

or contact Felix Features. Hopefully one day Aïna will not have to rely on grants and charity, but become a self sustainable news organisation. If you are going to Kabul, contact them!

Learn more about Aïna:

click here for a National Geographic presentation.