This photographer uses her talent for Tanzania.

Jennie uses her camera to capture the lives of the Tanzanian locals...she hopes to raise money for better health, education, prevetion of violence, and so much more!

Jennie Peakin, owner of Jennie Peakin Photography in Bettendorf, Iowa, specializes in photographing families, seniors, and children. She loves capturing the images of families and individuals in the Quad Cities, but always dreamed of doing humanitarian photography work. Two years ago, after learning about the international nongovernmental organization Empower Tanzania she grew to admire all they do in rural East Africa. She knew she could offer her time and talent to take photographs that the organization could use to spread the word about the work they do to empower the beautiful people of the country.

During her travels, Jennie witnessed the work of Empower Tanzania from programs focusing on health, education, gender-based violence, integrated farming and water programs. The organization is led by staff in the Same District (near Mt. Kilimanjaro) and works with dozens of diff erent organizations on projects that measurably and sustainably improve the lives of Tanzanians. 

Jennie’s first trip to Tanzania was in the spring of 2016. During the two-week period, she traveled with the organization and captured thousands of stunning images for the organization. After returning home, she joined the Board of Directors and began planning her second trip.

She also hosted a gallery to showcase her artwork from Tanzania and sold large canvases, printed notecards, and matted prints to raise funds for Empower Tanzania.

Jennie returned to Tanzania in the spring of 2018. Upon her return to the States, she hosted another gallery and once again donated all of the money raised to Empower Tanzania. She has donated her work to several fundraisers and has single-handedly raised thousands of dollars for the organization!

Just as Jennie was able to find a way to use her passion and talent to make a difference, she hopes to inspire others to do the same.

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