Celebrated Next Media photojournalist Francis Isano is preparing to host the second edition of his Through The Lens exhibition, riding on the momentum of a debut showcase that drew national attention and industry acclaim.
The upcoming Season II edition comes just over a year after the inaugural exhibition, held in April 2024 at Next Media Park, where Isano’s work earned praise from high-profile figures including Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa and Next Media CEO Kin Kariisa.
Announcing the return of the exhibition, Isano said the new edition will go beyond showcasing photography to expanding opportunities within Uganda’s creative space.
“Season II is not just a continuation, it’s an evolution,” he said. “The upcoming edition promises to be more impactful, more refined, and more inclusive. It aims to push boundaries in visual storytelling while creating opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and growth.”
The first edition marked a turning point for Isano, positioning him among Uganda’s rising creative voices and establishing Through The Lens as a platform for storytelling through imagery.
The exhibition drew a diverse audience and sparked conversations around the role of photography in documenting society.
At the 2024 debut, Isano underscored the power of visual storytelling, telling participants during a masterclass that, “Photojournalism is about capturing the soul of a moment. I hope to inspire the next generation to tell stories that resonate.”
The event attracted top dignitaries, including Tayebwa, who commended the photographer’s ability to document Uganda’s social and cultural realities.
“Isano’s work is not just about photography; it’s about capturing the essence of our culture and society,” Tayebwa said at the time.
Kariisa also praised the exhibition, noting that Isano’s work had helped elevate Uganda’s photojournalism industry and set new standards for visual storytelling.
Organisers say the second edition will build on that foundation, with a broader vision aimed at strengthening the country’s photography ecosystem through collaboration and mentorship, while maintaining a focus on authentic storytelling.
Preparations for Season II are already underway, with creatives, supporters, and enthusiasts invited to take part in shaping the exhibition from concept to execution.
From a successful debut to what is now being framed as a growing movement, Through The Lens is emerging as a key platform in Uganda’s creative industry—one that seeks to amplify stories, emotions, and perspectives that might otherwise go untold.
