This Brazilian prison hosts an annual beauty contest for inmates.

In a unique approach to preparing prisoners for reintegration into society, a maximum security prison has introduced an inmate beauty pageant.

Since the country has a significant role as a narcotics smuggling hub, this often leads girls into a life of drug dealing and prostitution. Those apprehended face lengthy sentences and endure shame while separated from their children, who are often raised by disappointed grandparents.
The beauty pageant therefore offers these women an opportunity to rebuild their self-esteem and experience uplifting reunions with their families.

How else can we help people coming out of prison adjust to life?

Model Prisoners / 2018
#Brazil

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High-rise buildings, fast-food and karaoke are some of the usual things one expects in any modern country, but maybe not in North Korea. However, you can see all these things when visiting Pyongyang.

Often shrouded in mystery, the secretive and isolated country leaves many questions unanswered about its true way of life for ordinary citizens.

In an attempt to shed light on this enigma, a Russian vlogger ventures into the unknown, offering a glimpse of North Korea's more amicable side during its 70th anniversary.

The Other Korea / 2019
#NorthKorea

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What would life be like inside a luxury nuclear bunker?

Survivalism thrives in the United States, driven by a belief in an imminent catastrophe and a preference for self-reliance. Known as 'doomsday preppers', these people prioritize personal preparedness over government aid, embracing the motto 'You're On Your Own' (YOYO).

What threats do these people anticipate, and can they break free from their constant feelings of fear?

Armageddon Ready / 2019
#USA

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The West has conveniently forgotten the horrendous legacy of colonialism it left Africa to languish in, and is now blaming the current wave of instability on an unlikely culprit – Russia.

For over 60 years, after many African countries declared their independence, erstwhile colonizers have been leeching off their resources and benefiting from the vicious cycles of violence, poverty and social unrest. Now that the African continent is looking to build new alliances, the full-fledged geopolitical battle over the continent is about to begin.

Red Alert: Last Battle for Africa / 2023
#Africa

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Galib miraculously survived the collapse of his house, but tragically, his wife did not. For hours, he attempted to free her from the rubble, but she, like many others, ended up a victim of this disaster.

Over 50,000 people were killed and millions displaced in Türkiye when it was struck by a devastating earthquake in February. Countless buildings were destroyed, and entire cities collapsed. Rescuers and volunteers tirelessly worked to save those trapped under the debris. Despite their efforts, not all victims could be rescued.

The survivors continue to look for answers as they struggle to restart their lives from scratch.

Aftershock: The Türkiye Earthquake / 2023
#Türkiye

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Ivan Dodosov, a tank battalion commander, recently awarded the title of Hero of Russia, has been fighting to protect the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics since February 2022. But it was the creative thinking and level-headedness his group demonstrated during the tank duel near the town of Popasnaya, that covered his unit in glory. They achieved the impossible, breaking through the enemy’s defences that had been considered impenetrable

Here and Now: Episode 1 / 2023
#Russia

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In his peaceful everyday life, Vadim Kolganov is a theatre and film actor. But after the beginning of the special military operation, he realised that he can’t just live as if nothing is happening. After his young cousin Konstantin was killed in action near Lugansk, Vadim packed his bags and went to Donbass, where he went door to door, distributing food and aid to those who were affected the most by the conflict. He doesn’t consider himself a hero, but without selfless volunteers like him, life for Donbass residents would be much harder.

Here and Now: Episode 2 / 2023
#Russia

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The world has lost nearly 10 percent of its total forest area in the last 30 years.

On the Philippines' 'last ecological frontier', thousands of hectares of trees have been lost since 2001, spelling disaster for indigenous people who depend on the forest.

Environmental activists in Palawan take the fight into their own hands while tackling rampant deforestation. Seizing chainsaws from illegal loggers, they strive to protect the island's old-growth forests from being destroyed for mines or plantations. Their efforts come at great risk, as this country ranks as one of the deadliest for environmental activists. Nevertheless, these dedicated people persist in their struggle to safeguard Palawan and its inhabitants.

Despite a logging ban and UNESCO biosphere reserve status, extensive deforestation persists, posing a threat to both the environment and locals.

Palawan Lost / 2018
#Philippines

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Is cannabis really harmless or is it in fact a dangerous drug?

Johnny Stack, a 19-year-old from Colorado, tragically took his own life due to marijuana use. His parents attributed his untimely demise to the high THC content found in the cannabis wax he had consumed.

Today’s marijuana contains 20-25% THC, causing long-term effects like addiction and mental illness. Johnny, unfortunately, suffered from psychosis and struggled to break free from his dependence on marijuana. Colorado's legalization of marijuana in 2012, saw an increase in usage and addiction, especially among young people.

Johnny's heartbreaking story is just one among many, serving as a poignant call from grieving parents to raise awareness and caution, in light of marijuana's growing popularity.

Marijuana Victims: Colorado / 2021
#USA

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Maritza Esther is one of the millions of internally displaced Colombian women who were subjected to unspeakable violence. Armed intruders invaded her home, raped her teen daughter, and callously murdered her husband.

In Colombia's war-torn landscapes, the suffering of women remains a haunting reality. Their stories are not isolated incidents but fragments of a wider narrative woven by a decades-long civil war.

Patricia Guerrero, a compassionate lawyer, emerges as a beacon of hope, uniting these struggling women under a community called the ‘League of the Displaced Women’. Together, they created a sanctuary named La Ciudad de las Mujeres, or ‘City of Women’, where safety and support are sought. But still, despite living in this haven, do they feel safe there?

Women Built This City / 2019
#Colombia

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In the Shaolin Mountains of China, the prestigious Shaolin Epo Wushu College stands as a top martial arts school. Adjacent to the renowned monastery, where the ancient martial art of wushu, or kung fu, has been practiced by monks for centuries, the college now extends its teachings to children. With around 8,000 students, some as young as three years old, the school has embraced the inclusion of girls.

These determined girls are now willing to trade their dolls for rigorous training with fists, knives, swords, and other weapons. They experience uneasy conditions, sharing rooms, modest meals, and limited parental visits.

Why did they choose to follow this path? Check out their story; it may inspire you to join!

Little Miss Kung Fu / 2017
#China

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These grandmas are learning how to fight back against rapists.

On the outskirts of Kenya's capital, elderly women live in constant fear as they increasingly fall victim to rape. However, a glimmer of hope shines through self-defense classes tailored for them.

Korogocho, a poverty-stricken neighborhood, sees residents surviving on less than one dollar a day, often resorting to scavenging or selling goods. HIV has devastated the community, leaving many children orphaned. Rape runs rampant, particularly targeting older women, as they’re believed to possess curative powers.

However, change is emerging as a local NGO is trying to empower these ladies to fight back with their fists and voices by teaching them how to be confident and to act when needed.

Granny Fight Club / 2017
#Kenya

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"We [Italy] are treated more like a colony than a valued ally", says artist Salvatore about his country’s role in NATO.

In 2022, Rome and other NATO members approved military aid for Kiev, a decision that was met with opposition from many Italians. The citizens have been questioning the benefits of such policies, puzzled by their country's weapon supply to Ukraine and the increased presence of more American soldiers. "Getting involved in the war, Europe is losing its true self, becoming NATO’s dumb little brother," says journalist Giorgio Bianchi.

Many Italians believe that by supporting NATO’s strategies, they will inevitably suffer from the consequences of such decisions. Now, they are trying to make their voices heard...

Another Italy / 2022
#Italy

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How could Dostoevsky’s philosophy remain relevant after two centuries?

Russia's iconic writer has transcended borders, becoming a global brand that compels people to confront their true selves and offers the promise of personal growth. His transformative impact on readers, regardless of language, underscores his universal appeal.

At Duke University in North Carolina, students captivated by Dostoevsky's profound works find solace in his ability to address contemporary challenges.

What's your favorite work by Dostoyevsky, and why?

Universal Dostoevsky / 2022
#USA

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The Amazon does not only boast the largest basin area in the world but also serves as a major hub for drug trafficking, generating an estimated $10 billion annually.

As cocaine travels along the world's largest river, its price soars by 150 times. With sections of the Amazon spanning up to 80 km wide, policing the area becomes nearly impossible. Drug cartels fight for control, displacing locals and converting abandoned riverside homes into cocaine storage facilities.

The area has Brazil's second-highest homicide rate; people and whole families are killed daily…

As the locals live in fear of cartels, what can they do to protect themselves?

The Cocaine River / 2023
#Brazil #Colombia #Peru

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"After my first trip [to Donbass], I realised that these people wouldn’t survive without us," says Vadim Khomich, founder of the NGO Russkiy Mir. After witnessing firsthand the challenges faced by civilians, he recognized that his personal efforts alone would not suffice. Today, his organisation not only provides the people of Donbass with food and essential goods, but also strives to uplift the spirit of the children. They organise special events and provide gifts for every child to help them cope with their trauma and integrate them back into a more peaceful society. Take a look at how people come together in times of crisis and why these volunteer’s efforts are vital.

Together we stand / 2023
#Russia

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Can faith overpower terror? You will be amazed by the profound events that unfolded in an Egyptian village.

In 2015, ISIS ruthlessly killed 20 Christian men in this village. The community mourned their loss and revered them as martyrs. The survivors grappled with guilt but also found admiration in the courage of their fallen friends. The village sought solace in the unwavering faith displayed by these martyrs. But that's not all – remarkably, the villagers began to pray for the very people responsible for the heinous acts. Why would they pray for the killers?

ISIS vs Christ / 2015
#Egypt

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These Congolese parents turn to sorcerers to protect their daughters – from the threat of rape!

In Congo, girls endure daily sexual harassment and abuse from strangers, peers, and even family members. Shockingly, these acts are not legally recognized as crimes and victims are often blamed. With a lack of support systems and limited intervention from authorities, people turn to alternative measures.

In a desperate attempt to safeguard their daughters, desperate parents seek the assistance of sorcerers to suppress their femininity. Painful rituals, including breast-slapping and cutting are performed.

While feminist activists advocate for change through sexual education and challenging the culture of violence, deep-rooted superstitions persist, leaving girls trapped between the threat of rape and excruciating rituals.

Congo's Hell for Girls / 2022
#Congo

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