Jaibino

USA 🇺🇸 “We were throwing a football around outside at the “house” he’s in right now. He said: “Do you want some sweet potato pie? My neighbor made it!” We go inside and as he cuts me a big slice of pie he says: “Did you see that rat run under the stove?” He was amazed I missed it as he chuckled and with all his innocence, said: “That’s why I don’t like living here, there’s always rats running around.” He then ran back outside so we could throw the ball around again. It’s crazy how I go home to my family and nice house and everyday he lives in a place with rats in it. I think it helps that he has a sweet mother, she wants the best for Bino and won’t stop at anything to make sure he succeeds. There was a period when I was a little heartbroken because Bino was being disruptive and acting up in school. I don’t want Bino to turn into what he sees in his surroundings. Bino was embarrassed and upset that his mom told me. We went for a walk and I told him that it’s okay, that I used to act up in school just like him. But he is smart, and it’s important he knows that and wants people to see that side of him. This year he has been getting gold stars at school, his teacher loves him, and most importantly, he’s proud of himself. I’m really happy to see that for him. I want to see him grow into the man that I know him to be. I’m happy to see him growing up. I decided from the first couple times I met him that I will photograph him for the rest of my life. I don’t know where the story is going to go but I know I’ll be there for him. He means a lot to me.”

Photos by Joey Lipps