Over the course of his career, Jeremy Cowart has garnered recognition for his compelling portraits of celebrities like Taylor Swift, Sting, Kelly Clarkson, and Lauren Daigle. He’s shot campaigns for companies like Nike and Fortune Magazine.
But for Jeremy, his craft isn’t about prestige or accolades—it’s about storytelling. And he believes everyone’s story matters.
In 2024, Jeremy traveled with HOPE International to Rwanda, where he got to meet the members of Urumuri (“light”) savings group. During their time together, group members drew the dreams they have for themselves and their families. Jeremy captured the moment—and the look of joy and pride on each member’s face.
This fall, HOPE will feature a curated gallery of Jeremy’s portraits at events held across the United States. For now, here’s a peek at some of the images featured in the show—and some of the dreams that men and women in Rwanda are holding onto for their future:
Jeaninne Murekatete already has a sewing business—now, she wants to invest in growing it. And she hopes to one day make her family’s dream home a reality.
Claude Umurisa once had to beg for money. Today, he dreams of building a home, buying a car, and telling others about Christ.
Chantal Umubyey’s husband has a disability that keeps him from being able to work. She dreams of starting a business selling tomatoes to provide for their family and to send their children to school.
Donatha Muhimpundu is president of Urumuri (“light”) savings group and dreams of buying a bicycle to start a delivery business. She also hopes to help her church build a room dedicated to prayer.
Clementine Dusabe dreams of sending her children to school, buying a cow, and bringing running water to her home.
Many thanks to Jeremy Cowart for these portraits. To learn more about Jeremy and his work, visit cowart.io.
