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Kanalas’ highlights
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PHOTOS AND STORY
It’s the people.
My experience in Youngstown can be summed up with such a simple sentence, but the people I met during my internship truly made all the difference. Each individual on this page — along with the hundreds of others I photographed, worked with and interviewed — made each day unique and inspiring.
Some welcomed my presence. They smiled, waved and instantly showed me their world. They were people who trust.
Some challenged me. They pushed me, questioned my motives and let me in only upon knowing my intentions were true and genuine. They were people who protect.
Some showed me love. Affection was evident whether it was a hug among brothers or support at a funeral. They were people who care.
Although I’m from Columbus and have a bias toward the place I call home, I’m grateful for the year I spent in Youngstown.
Each story I told gave me insight into a city that hasn’t stopped growing as a community since it was founded in 1796. They’re strong, hard-working people who stand up for what they believe in and fight for the respect they know they deserve.
But then again, you already knew all of this.
After all, you’re one of them.