Fadi Al Halabi is an accomplished photographer and documentary filmmaker known for his powerful and poignant storytelling. As a co-founder of the Aleppo Media Center (AMC), he has played a crucial role in documenting the Syrian conflict and shedding light on the plight of the Syrian people.
Born in Aleppo in 1994, Fadi grew up in the city and attended school there. When the Syrian conflict erupted in 2011, he made the decision to set aside his dream of becoming a professional footballer and instead picked up a camera to capture the unfolding events. Recognizing the importance of media in raising awareness about the war, Fadi, along with several other Syrian journalists, co-founded the Aleppo Media Center in late 2012.
Despite the challenges posed by the war, Fadi’s dedication to his craft and his commitment to telling stories from his surroundings is unwavering. His work has focused on the daily lives of those affected by the ongoing violence and the resilience of the Syrian people. Through his documentaries and photographs, Fadi has brought attention to the human side of the conflict, highlighting the stories of individuals and finding glimpses of humanity amidst the chaos.
Fadi’s portfolio includes notable works such as “The White Helmets,” a documentary that won an Oscar and highlights the heroic efforts of volunteer rescue workers in Syria. He also served as a cinematographer for the Oscar-nominated documentary “Last Men in Aleppo,” providing a raw and intimate portrayal of the daily struggles faced by individuals living in the city. His project “Lost Childhood” captures the profound impact of the war on Syrian children, showcasing their resilience and dreams for a better future.
In addition to his photography and filmmaking skills, Fadi has developed expertise in diplomacy and negotiation. He navigates the complex web of relationships between armed groups and non-governmental organizations to secure access for himself and foreign journalists who require it.
Fadi’s professionalism and dedication are undeniable. His commitment to storytelling remains undeterred despite the years of relentless warfare. He serves as an exemplary figure for men and women who risk their lives to bring stories to the screen and the page.
Throughout his career, Fadi Al Halabi has received recognition for his outstanding work. He was a winner at the News & Documentary Emmy Awards in 2018 for Outstanding Hard News Feature Story in a Newscast, in collaboration with CNN International and the Aleppo Media Center, for their work on “Syria: Gasping for Life in Khan Sheikhoun.” He has also been nominated for the BAFTA TV Craft Awards and Camerimage.
Throughout his career, Fadi Al Halabi has embarked on numerous impactful projects. Some of his notable works include:
The White Helmets:
Fadi contributed his photography skills to the Oscar-winning documentary “The White Helmets,” which highlights the heroic efforts of the volunteer rescue workers in Syria.
Last Men in Aleppo:
Fadi served as a cinematographer on this Oscar-nominated documentary, providing a raw and intimate portrayal of the daily struggles faced by individuals living in Aleppo during the conflict.
Fadi’s evocative photography project, “Lost Childhood,” captures the profound impact of the war on Syrian children, highlighting their resilience and dreams for a better future.
Lost Childhood:
Syria and Ukraine: The Same Struggle?:
Fadi’s documentary delves into the similarities between the conflicts in Syria and Ukraine, drawing parallels between the struggles faced by both nations and exploring the universal aspects of war and displacement.
Portraits Of War:
Fadi’s powerful portraits offer a glimpse into the lives of Syrians affected by the conflict, highlighting their strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit.
Fadi Al Halabi’s contributions to the field of documentary filmmaking and photography have been invaluable in raising awareness about the Syrian conflict and its impact on the lives of ordinary people. His work serves as a testament to the power of visual storytelling in bringing attention to important social and humanitarian issues.
