Maria Benicia
Club Chingona Deportiva
As a Latina who is trying to break through the sports industry I have noticed the big gap of BIPOC women in sports. This final exhibition is dedicated to women of color in sports. My final project is called “Club Chingona Deportiva”, because I want to showcase the recognition women deserve in the sport industry. Giving them a platform to feel empowered, recognized, strong, and heard. This project means so much to me because although I am not an athlete. Representation in these type spaces is so important to myself and the younger generations to come. The goal for my photos is to make the viewer feel the passion, love and determination the subject has for their sport. Every one of my subject is to be seen confident and determined. Shoot for the stars to make their dreams come true as an athlete, professional or nonprofessional. Club Chingona Deportiva is for all the powerful She.Her.Ella in sports!
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About Maria
Maria Paula Benicio is a sports photographer from Los Angeles, who grew up watching soccer with her father and brothers. She remembers going to Sunday league games to watch her dad and brother play. Her love for capturing athletes' best moments began when she started taking photos of a SWPL team.Unaware of what her passion really was, she found her spark and love in sports photography shortly afterwards. A surreal moment for her was when she was able to document games for big teams, like Real Madrid and Club America.What keeps her motivated is seeing the big gap between women and men in sports photography. She hopes to make a change in this big gap. Maria hopes to encourage other people who grew up around the same area as she did to never give up on their dreams no matter how small or unattainable they might seem. Her goal is to take up space in the sports industry , in hopes of gaining a masters in journalism and communication. Maria's goal is to one day document a world cup game, be head of the communications department for a professional team, and her greatest dream is to work for F.I.F.A. one day! When she reaches this level of success she hopes to create a platform of mentorship for other women seeking a career in sports and give back to her community.
Presented by BKC & ASMP NY, The Bridge is a groundbreaking 16-week mentorship program for 18-26 year old emerging photographers and creative artists. To learn more about The Bridge, CLICK HERE.