The Lens of Dignity: Reclaiming Identity & Humanity Behind Bars

Saskia Keeley’s photography workshops in prisons go far beyond teaching technique—they open a path to self-expression, dignity, and renewal. Through the lens, incarcerated individuals learn to see themselves and each other differently, moving past the labels of “inmate” or “convict” to reclaim their humanity. Their portraits reveal beauty, courage, and individuality even within confinement.

In this presentation, Saskia Keeley invites you to follow that same progression: to witness transformation, to reconsider stereotypes, and to recognize the humanity and creativity that can never be taken away.

Saskia Keeley is a Swiss photographer, counselor, and workshop leader who uses photography as a tool for healing, social justice, and connection. She founded Accompagnateur Workshops—first developed in the West Bank to foster dialogue between Palestinian and Israeli women—and now brings them to at-risk youth, incarcerated, and formerly incarcerated people. Recipient of the Harvard Negotiation and Mediation Clinical Program’s Art Award for her contributions to conflict resolution through the arts, Saskia holds a Master of Arts in Transformational Leadership from Eastern Mennonite University and a diploma in Interspiritual Counseling from One Spirit Learning Alliance, alongside photography studies at the International Center of Photography in New York.

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