BUNGOMA, Kenya — In an industry often dominated by men, one woman from Western Kenya is not just making her mark—she’s redefining the narrative.
Meet Diana Nelima, a trailblazing photographer hailing from Shikhendu Ward in Trans-Nzoia County, whose artistry, grit, and unwavering belief in the power of storytelling are turning heads across the country. With a camera in hand and passion in her heart, Diana is challenging societal norms and proving that talent knows no gender.
“I’ve always believed in the power of stories,” she says. “Photography became my way of telling them—silently, yet powerfully.”
Raised in a vibrant and creative household, Diana was surrounded by art and storytelling from a young age. But her path into professional photography came unexpectedly. A simple gift—a camera from her spouse—sparked a hobby that quickly evolved into a full-fledged career.
Initially capturing moments with family, friends, and nature, her unique eye and emotional depth caught the attention of many. Yet the road to recognition was far from smooth.
“Being a woman in this field, especially in a small town, meant I had to fight for recognition,” Diana recalls. “There were times I wasn’t taken seriously. I had to work twice as hard to earn the respect many of my male counterparts were given freely.”
Limited access to quality equipment was another obstacle. But Diana pressed on, buoyed by her relentless determination and the steadfast support of her husband. Slowly but surely, her work began to speak for itself. Each client, each event, and each photograph brought her one step closer to becoming a respected name in the industry.
Her major breakthrough came when she was hired to photograph a high-profile event—her first large-scale professional gig.
“It was the first time I was trusted with something so big. That moment opened a lot of doors,” she says.
Since then, Diana’s lens has captured politicians such as Ndindi Nyoro, Francis Atwoli, and Moses Nandalwe, as well as entertainers like Dem Wa Facebook. But amid the high-profile work, one project stands out as closest to her heart: documenting the lives of local women artisans.
“That project reminded me why I do what I do—to uplift, to tell our stories, to inspire. It was emotional, it was powerful, and it left a mark on me,” she shares.
Diana’s work has been featured in local magazines, online platforms, and showcased in community art exhibits—milestones she never imagined when she first picked up a camera. Her style is distinct, rooted in authenticity, raw emotion, and the rich cultural fabric of her community. She avoids filters, preferring to reveal the beauty of truth through her images.
As her brand continues to grow, Diana is passionate about inspiring the next generation of young women, especially in rural areas, who dream of careers in the creative industry.
“Don’t let the world define your path,” she says. “Let your passion, your grit, and your work speak louder than the doubts around you.”
In a region where many stories go untold, Diana Nelima is ensuring that every frame she captures becomes a voice—strong, clear, and full of purpose.
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