World Press Photo winner Anna Boyiazis spoke about the work on her award-winning project and her understanding of engaging photojournalism. The US photographer was awarded second prize in the People category for Finding Freedom in the Water. The series follows an initiative on the archipelago of Zanzibar that enables young girls to learn how to swim by providing full-body suits without compromising their traditional Islamic faith, which forbids revealing clothing.

Anna Boyiazis grew up in southern California as a descendant of Greek immigrants. She studied at UCLA and Yale and first worked as a book designer, mainly for architects. In 2006, she began her career as a photographer.

Photos: WestLicht