Traveled —
United States
The Philippines
Japan
China
Korea
Israel
Brunei
Malaysia
Singapore
Hong Kong
Previously Worked For —
CNN Philippines
The Chimes
Rappler
John Uy has a background in visual media, having earned him bachelor of arts at Biola University in La Mirada, California. Not deterred by his physical disability of being profoundly deaf, he dreams to travel the world and explore the hidden gems within each country.
Previously he worked for Rappler and CNN Philippines as an intern. He worked for Biola University’s student-run newspaper, The Chimes, as a staff photographer. He also volunteered to assist TACLOB and the Philippine Ballet Theatre for a short term.
After a couple of years of photographing his travels, he soon learns that the meaning of humanity, which revolve around the value of human relationship. It is through these profound experiences that inspire him to explore the beauty and complexities of the human emotions across different cultures.
“I listen to your soul before I capture your humanity.”
Fueled by his curiosity and desire for adventure, he strives to defy time by capturing moments to find the essence of their humanity. But John remains committed to his dream to help communities to instill their voice through media and move their society.
It is his hope that by living with the people, he could create visual stories comprised of their identity and dream, their fear and hope, their joy and sadness, their life and demise. And through their testimony, they could become a catalyst for change in their society for the greater good. It is a change where people are inspired to help one another, love one another, and encourage one another.