Gulnisa [Stranger #12/100][Explored 21-Oct-2016]

This picture is #12 in the 100 Strangers Project - Round 2

 

Meet Gulnisa.

 

Due to limited time and deadlines, opportunities to step out and explicitly seek people for the 100 strangers have been pretty less. Therefore I have been trying to have my camera around at most times just in case a opportunity should arise and in this case it did indeed help. I was at the Motor Vehicle Administration for renewing my license where I met Gulnisa in the queue a little ahead of me. Once I was done with my business I approached her and requested her to be part of the project. Gulnisa was a little surprised and was a little hesitant since she was not wearing any makeup (not the first time I have heard that). But I reassured her that she looked beautiful as she was and that is why she stood out. Her expressive eyes and her simple no-frills yet striking features looked like a great opportunity. After a few moments of thinking she agreed to step out for a bit (asking her friend to watch for her number being called out).

 

We had a brief conversation and clicked a few pictures even as the young lady got into the groove and worked her poses and expressions so easily. I was curious about the language she was speaking. Gulnisa (which means "flower woman") is from Azerbaijan (and believe was speaking in Azerbaijani). She has recently moved to the USA and currently works at Victoria's Secret. Back home she worked with tourism and even setup a agency of her own. I asked her little more about herself. Gulnisa is currently focused on building her life in this country (having recently obtained her Green card). Gulnisa explained that she had no "excuse" to be here other than have a fresh start to her life. She is currently studying English - and is planning to continue to do so for some more time. Apparently she could barely speak any English till a few months back. I certainly couldn't have guessed that from our conversation and her confidence and strong determination that came across as we spoke.

 

Thank you Gulnisa for your time and participation. I hope you did not miss your turn at the MVA. If you like this pic and would like to obtain copies of some of the pics please let me know. It was great meeting you and I hope you do really well with a great future. All the very best.

 

Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page

For my other pictures on this project: 100 Strangers - Round 2.

For pictures from my prior attempt at 100 Strangers: 100 Strangers - Round 1.

Done