Romanian Orphanages...

In Ceausescu’s Romania it was law that women under 40 have five children to create the Romanian Workers Army. Contraception was illegal and those unable to support their children handed them over to be raised by the state. In December 1989 The Romanian people overthrew Ceausescu and inherited a beautiful, but bankrupt, country. There was little money and the new government had to borrow heavily to begin the transition from communist to market economy. In May 2000 my wife Zoe & I were shown the progress they’ve made since then by Ann Croft who, through her charity New Life Into Romania, has been sending aid for 11 years.

We tend to conjure up a grim image of Romanian orphanages. Pictures of babies lying six to a urine soaked cot and tales of corruption. Some of them are grim and Romania knows this but hasn’t the money to change things. Corruption does happen, but not all the time and not everywhere you look. A few donated items make a huge difference in these kid's lives and lends a helping hand to a country learning a new way to live. There are smiles, compassion and love - even on the streets. I've often heard it said that there's no point helping Romania as the help never reaches it's destination. Some doesn't, but a lot does and it makes a difference.

In most cases the images we see used to ask for aid are, I feel, of an horrific nature. That’s not to say there’s anything wrong with them and they do a valid job bringing about public awareness. I’ve tried to show there’s also another way based on possibility rather than negativity. This way there's joy for the giver and dignity for the receiver. Mischievous, laughing, naughty, dirty and often homeless, these children are just like everyone else’s kids and free of pathos. Rather than offering help from a point of pity or guilt, I want people to fall in love with these children and to feel good when they lend them a helping hand.

In everyday life I specialise in photojournalistic style weddings though photojournalism itself is something new to me, and I’ve received a lot of publicity on this score. I’ve had a moving and inspirational adventure, and publicity. To put something back through the calendar and free use of the pictures by aid organisations, I want to help raise awareness, bring about some transformation and cause some joy. I’m privileged to have been moved, touched and inspired by the wonderful people I met along the way.

Mike Browne