rooted. | issue 1
COMMUNITY AMBASSADOR The Illustrator of Gifts Archetype: Storyteller and Citizen Journalist JAMIL BUCHANAN NEIGHBORHOOD: RIVERSIDE “Using my gifts to uplift the gifts of others brings me joy.” Jamil’s passion for photography is grounded in a belief that every family deserves to see themselves reflected with honor. Growing up connected to community, he understands how powerful images can be in shaping pride and self-worth. Jamil’s lived experience shapes his ability to connect with people and reflect their truth through his lens. Jamil Buchanan is a visual storyteller rooted in the Riverside community. His work captures the everyday moments, joyful expressions, and cultural traditions that help families feel proud of where they come from. Photography started as a creative interest, but it quickly became a calling to preserve community memory and uplift the beauty of Black and Brown families. His passion is documenting the real lives of people in ways that feel authentic and affirming. Jamil believes that images help people see their value.
His passion work includes:
documenting the beauty of Riverside families capturing neighborhood gatherings and cultural celebrations supporting friends and ambassadors through photography encouraging youth through creativity preserving moments that strengthen collective memory Jamil’s purpose is to hold space for joy, identity, and connection by capturing moments that might otherwise be forgotten.
CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE LEARNING TREE COMMUNITY AND MIDWEST LEA K MAGAZINE
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