Portrait of an elderly woman in her house

Birigui - State of São Paulo - Brazil

This photography project tells the story of my grandmother, a woman who had to leave her hometown at a very young age. Newly married and with a newborn daughter, she was forced to move across the country in search of a better life. Her mother, sisters, and grandmother did not want her to leave, but societal expectations and her husband’s wishes dictated her path. The challenges she faced were immense. In an environment where women had little say and even less support, she endured a toxic relationship that led her into the depths of alcohol addiction. The struggles within her marriage and family life became overwhelming. Yet, through resilience and inner strength, she eventually found the courage to overcome her addiction, reclaiming control over her life. Reflecting on her past, she told me that if women had been heard, if they had the strength and support they do today, her life might have taken a different course. But life is made of choices, and sometimes those choices are dictated by circumstances beyond our control. Through these images, I aim to capture not just her pain and hardships, but also her resilience, her moments of reflection, and the quiet strength that has carried her through. This is her story—one of sacrifice, struggle, and ultimately, survival.