PhotoVoice is a global photo essay project used to promote social change. In keeping with its Mission, COVA has empowered eight participants by giving them a camera, a little bit of guidance, and a great deal of freedom. These new photographers share their journey through mental health recovery and their return to work with photography and writing. In doing so, they invite us to take a peek into their lives, to learn about their struggles and triumphs, and to take another step toward breaking down the stigma of mental illness.
IMPERFECTION (Beauty)
I am drawn to imperfection, or what goes unnoticed. It reminds me how we are all marked by our experiences that might be invisible to others. Mine includes stigma for my mental difference. My mood swings fluctuate, but I embrace each one — up and down and in between. I see them as a part of me rather than as negative experiences. Each mark of depression, mania, medication, and hospitalization is a revelation of how I learn about my body, mind, and soul. 
