Photo Portrait Now Entry 2025

Layla entered the Photo Portrait Now Competition in March of 2025 organised by The National Portrait Gallery London. This series of portraits captures the resilience, hope, and unwavering pride of three young Syrian men who, despite leaving their homeland, remain deeply connected to their roots. Forced to leave due to war and political turmoil, they now call England home, where they found solace in each other through their shared love for Syria. Layla wanted to capture the pain of separation, the strength in adaptation, and the joy they carry despite their past hardships. Each portrait is an intimate reflection of their spirit, a testament to the love and hope they have for their country. While distance may have altered their physical landscape, their emotional connection to Syria remains unshaken. Their expressions, gestures, and the subtleties of their gaze tell a story of endurance, of young souls who have had to grow up too quickly but refuse to let go of hope. The fall of the regime signifies more than just political change for them; it symbolizes a future they believe in and a homeland they continue to cherish. In these images, Layla seeks to honour their journey and illuminate the beauty of resilience, identity, and belonging.