Bringing the

Far Away Near

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World-class documentary photography education, rooted in Africa and SWANA, open to the world.

Our Mission

For over two decades, we’ve lived and breathed documentary photography. PLATFORM 2020 exists to champion artists from Africa and SWANA, amplifying voices too often overlooked and placing them at the centre of global conversations.

We believe in democratising education: Bringing the Far Away Near, so that access to world-class knowledge is not bound by geography or privilege.

Through a dynamic programme led by world-class practitioners, we equip the next generation of storytellers with the tools, confidence and community to master their craft, define their vision and build sustainable careers.

A new PLATFORM 2020 guest-reviewed open call for photographers and visual storytellers responding to what it means to keep making in a time of rupture and uncertainty. Rooted in Africa, SWANA and beyond, this call invites work that is culturally grounded, politically awake and alive to the world as it is.

Open Call

To Make in a Time Like This

Explore the open call

Featured Talks

Memory as Resistance: Archives, Inheritance & the Politics of Remembering

ON SEEING & BEING SEEN

The first conversation in On Seeing & Being Seen, a four-part series co-curated by PLATFORM 2020 and The VII Foundation. Recorded live on 9 April 2026.

EXPLORE OUR TALKS

A World of Opportunities

to Expand the Frame

New Chapters will unfold in time. If you’d like to hear first when our next openings go live, join our Letters from Home mailing list.

Workshops & Mentorships

Learn with guidance that meets you where you are. From first steps with a camera to building a book or exhibition, our workshops & mentorships are designed to help your vision grow.
The Documentary Lab

Launching in 2027, our flagship year-long Pathways programme. Designed for photographers ready to make the leap from practice to authorship.
Membership

Coming soon. Our Pathways Membership circle of storytellers. Membership will give you special access to learning, community & inspiration. Whether you’re just starting out or shaping visionary projects.
Talks & Events

Belong to a global conversation. Our live talks & events connect you with inspiring practitioners, exploring the stories & struggles that shape documentary photography today.
Podcast

Coming Spring 2026. Conversations Away from Home, a PLATFORM 2020 podcast bringing together voices from Africa, SWANA & beyond to reflect on photography, belonging & what “home” means.
Expert Sessions

Create with confidence through one-to-one advice from curators, editors, book designers & visual practitioners. Expert voices, brought directly to you.
Merchandise

Coming soon. Carry the spirit of PLATFORM 2020 with you. Thoughtful, creative designs that bring our community into your everyday.