Photographer's Vietnamese Portraits Raise Vital Funds for Ripple
Portsmouth photographer Sophia Benham is celebrating a successful fundraising exhibition that has boosted the coffers of suicide prevention charity, Ripple. Her recent showcase of captivating portraits capturing the essence of the Vietnamese people, held at The Green House Hub in Victoria Park, raised a significant £250 for the vital cause.
The funds will directly support Ripple Suicide Prevention Charity's ongoing work in providing crucial support and raising awareness for suicide prevention across Portsmouth and the surrounding areas, extending their reach on both a local and national level.
Sophia expressed her delight at the event's success, stating, "I was truly overwhelmed with the success of the event and the many wonderful comments from the guests who attended, it certainly won't be my last exhibition." " I already have an idea for my next one " She also highlighted the deeper connections made during the exhibition, adding, "The fact people came out to not only observe my images but many of them had been impacted by suicide in some way, they also used this opportunity to talk about their loved ones they had lost and not focus on the stigma sometimes attached to suicide."
Ian Hendy, Executive Administrative Assistant at Ripple Suicide Prevention Charity and father of the late Josh, in whose memory the charity was established, expressed his heartfelt gratitude. "I felt humbled that you showcased your wonderful work in aid of our charity, it's acts of kindness and support like this that keeps us going on a daily basis."
Sophia extended her sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the event's success, with special mentions for her boyfriend Nicky, her Dad Terry, her Auntie Tracey and her five sons and son's girlfriend Macy for their unwavering support of her passion for photography and her commitment to mental health charities, including Mind, Aurora Rowans, and now Ripple. She also thanked Rhiannon from The Greenhouse Hub, Victoria Park, for generously providing the venue free of charge, and Ian Hendy and Elena Yaneva from Ripple Suicide Prevention Charity for their support.
For more information about the incredible work Ripple Suicide Prevention Charity does, please visit their website at www.ripplesuicideprevention.com.
This successful exhibition not only celebrated the beauty of Vietnamese culture through Sophia's artistic lens but also shone a light on the compassionate spirit within the Portsmouth community, united in supporting those affected by suicide.
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