What We Do
At Lens on Life, we empower youth overcoming profound adversity through the transformative power of photography and digital literacy. Our mission is to help young people heal, reclaim their stories, and unlock their inner potential so they can inspire positive change within their communities.
Our story began at home. Fueled by a passion for photography nurtured by our late mother, Bonnie Benrubi — who founded a photography gallery in New York City in the 1980s — and guided by our father Dennis, a film director, we learned to approach the world with curiosity, courage, and a camera in hand.
In 2016, we combined our lifelong passion for photography with our background in youth development to create an accessible, non-technical curriculum for vulnerable youth. Using simple cameras and short, focused classes, we emphasized self-expression over theory, helping students build pride in their work and stronger connections to their communities. Early programs in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Brooklyn proved the power of this approach. Students quickly embraced their identities as photographers and began using their skills to earn income. Male participants photographed weddings and local gatherings, while female participants—many of whom had survived rape and domestic violence—used photography to challenge gender stereotypes and reclaim empowerment through self-expression.
Building on this momentum, we expanded into computer literacy training to better prepare youth for a rapidly changing world and a modern job market. Today, Lens on Life continues to grow with the support of volunteers and partner organizations, and we remain deeply grateful for the chance to share our craft with these extraordinary young people. Despite the immense challenges they face, our students continue to create powerful, inspiring images that uplift their peers and strengthen their communities.