Biography

Joanna Schaus (she/her) is a documentary/humanitarian photographer collaborating with individuals and organizations engaged in social change. Her work focuses on areas of women’s empowerment, and social justice, as well as advocating for people who are silenced through oppressive systems, and displacement. Growing up in Afghanistan and Türkiye, her experiences of living as a third-culture kid, provoked her deep admiration for Central Asian and Middle Eastern culture. From a young age, Joanna felt a compelling interest in migration issues and social-political subjects. She began her career in photography by partnering with local NGOs and non-profits.

She has traveled to over thirty countries, telling stories and photographing people. Her work has led her to caves in Palestine, the rolling hills of Uganda, and various photo projects around the US. She’s partnered with multiple organizations including charity: water which has helped fund clean water for more than 11 million people around the world. Her work has been featured on Good Morning America, and various independent publications around the United States. Joanna is presently working on certifications, training, and gaining further knowledge on reporting in foreign environments. In the future, she plans on focusing on her work internationally and living abroad.

Joanna rarely refers to herself in the third person.

Currently in Birmingham, AL [USA]