Through My Lens: Sienna DiMuro
Sienna DiMuro is a senior at E3 High School in downtown San Diego. She started with Outside the Lens as an intern, working on various projects, including finding locations for Cine Teen. She was accepted to the Kroc Institute of Peace & Justice summer program in 2018 where she worked on an amazing social justice project promoting unity with young people in schools. (You can read more about it here: https://www.krocsfi.org/case-study/community) Sienna spoke at the Shutter and Stout Gala in November and shares her experience here:
When I was 13 years old I dreamed of talking to a large crowd of people, and sharing my story. Here I am, 4 years later, speaking in front of 260 people. As a kid I was always terrified of sharing my story, or showing any signs of weakness because I wanted to look strong all the time. For many years I kept everything to myself, but speaking tonight in front of everyone truly opened my eyes to the power of our battles and voices. It feels like yesterday that I was at my first fundraiser talking about one of my many projects. I’ve seen myself grow over the years, and I am mind blown by where I am today. Who knew, that at 17 I’d be where I am today. I still have a hard time believing that I was able to turn my pain into something that could change the world, which includes speaking to others about my adversities and inspiring them through my artwork. Demi Lovato once said, “I think scars are like battle wounds - beautiful, in a way. They show what you've been through, and how strong you are for coming out of it.” I truly believe that scars are our most beautiful battle wounds. When I was walking through that room, and making eye contact with the guests, I was sharing things I had never said out loud before. I took over the entire room, and saw within myself this amazing power. In that moment I was finally able to own my story, which I never thought I could do. I don’t have enough words to thank the people in my life, like Outside the Lens, who have helped guide me to find myself, and remind me everyday of why I love photography and storytelling. November 3rd, 2018 will be a date I won’t ever forget.
Sienna was recently accepted to Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts and plans to study photography, graphic design and political science. She is passionate about social justice/change and will continue that work within her community.
A selection of Sienna's work from the past year:
“Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is captured forever…
It remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything.” - Aaron Siskind
"Courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage,
you can’t practice any other virtue consistently." - Maya Angelou
Judith T Leeb:
Sienna, I am so truly proud of you. Your mom and you have been through some things I can never imagine. I am honored to have been a part of your life since you were little through technology. I was blessed last July when I got to finally meet you in person. Your mom and I go back many, many years when we first met in first grade. I love how you call me Aunt Judy. You have a promising future. I wish you the best in everything you do. Thank you for sharing this. I love you!!!