“I took this photo as part of a three-part self portrait series expressing the journey of recovery from an eating disorder. Often times, physical recovery precedes mental recovery, and for me, arriving to a place of self-love and acceptance took years of mental battles that were largely invisible to the outside world. The gray backdrop of this piece symbolizes the lingering, familiar darkness that never quite leaves the mental space of someone with some form of mental illness. Still, it is possible to "see the light" and experience joy, if only for a fleeting moment.”

Biobele Braide is a second-year medical student who is currently interested in Psychiatry. Her love for photography started as a high school sophomore with an appreciation for nature scenes and an iPod touch to capture them. It has since evolved into a passion for portrait, lifestyle, and a conceptual photography.