the (bop) project: photojournalism at the base of the economic pyramid

The (BoP) Project’s mission is simple: Discover, document and share stories of remarkable social entrepreneurs, enterprises and innovations that are redefining poverty alleviation. Through visual journalism and media, teach people about the growing BoP movement and the viable alternatives to traditional aid.

In addition to covering these stories on this blog and returning with a full photo-essay to share with galleries and interested publications, The (BoP) Project seeks to contribute to various other blogs, publications, websites, and organizations dealing with these issues throughout the journey.

Jonathan Kalan is the photojournalist behind this project, and in 23 years has traveled to over 30 countries, lived and worked internationally, and pursued careers as both a photojournalist and social entrepreneur. His photography has been published nationally and internationally, covering a wide range of issues- from rural energy solutions in Nepal, to California wildfires, to local news and events on LATimes.com, LAWeekly.com, The Santa Monica Daily Press, and several Los Angeles-based publications and blogs. Go here http://www.puraviddaphotos.com for more of his work.

Currently, Jonathan is based in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, working as Director of Business Development and Communications for a small social enterprise called KujaliInternational. Previously, Jonathan was pioneering a new industry of mobile fundraising and running a blog on social entrepreneurship/corporate social responsibility, as Manager of Mobile Fundraising & CSR with a growing startup company called Causecast. After gaining incredible experience behind the scenes helping nonprofit organizations develop technology, campaigns, ideas and more with Causecast, he decided to take a break and follow his passions…