Muhammed Muheisen, a Jordanian national, born in Jerusalem in 1981, is an internationally renowned, two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer widely recognised for his exceptional work as a National Geographic photojournalist and Explorer. His fascination with photography began early in life, ultimately guiding him to earn a B.A. in journalism and political science.
Since 2001, Muheisen has documented pivotal global events across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and the United States, often focusing on areas affected by conflict, displacement, and human suffering. Over the past 15 years, he has devoted much of his work to chronicling the refugee crisis, providing a robust and compassionate lens into the lives of those displaced by war and poverty.
In 2015, he established the Dutch non-profit organisation Everyday Refugees Foundation, based in Amsterdam, which aims to document, educate, help, and empower refugees, displaced communities, and people affected by conflict, poverty, discrimination, and natural disasters. Through his lens, Muheisen brings the human stories behind these crises to the forefront, emphasising the hardships, resilience, and strength of those he photographs. His impactful storytelling has made him one of the most influential photojournalists of our time, blending artistry with profound social awareness.
Muheisen’s deep commitment to sharing untold stories and addressing essential issues is evident in his involvement in numerous exhibitions and projects. He co-led the “Canon Young People Programme” in Jordan, mentoring young aspiring photographers, including refugees, and empowering them to express themselves through visual storytelling. His work, rooted in empathy and understanding, offers a raw and authentic view of the human experience, emphasising the importance of compassion and solidarity.
Through his foundation and extensive work, Muheisen has become a leading voice in advocating for the voiceless. His efforts continue to inspire change and foster a greater understanding of the complexities surrounding human experiences.
Muheisen continues to make an indelible mark on the world of photography, using his platform to amplify voices that deserve to be heard and stories that need to be told.
Exhibitions:
“Life in War” exhibited at Visa pour L’Image, France
“Faces of War” displayed at MidExpo in Moscow, Russia
“Life Goes On” displayed at Festival des Libertes in Brussels, Belgium
“Displaced” exhibited at The Fence in New York, USA
“Pursuit of Happiness” at the Angkor Photo Festival, Cambodia
“Light on the Move” exhibited at the Museum of Cycladic Art, Athens, Greece
“Light on the Move” traveled to Geneva, Switzerland
“Lest We Forget” toured Tokyo and Noshiro City, Japan
“Untold Stories” exhibited in Brescia, Italy.
“Voices” exhibition travelling through Portugal, from Coimbra to Porto, Valongo and Loulé.
“Bearing Witness” co-exhibited with Howard G. Buffett, displayed across Europe, including Athens, Amsterdam, The Hague, and in Bucharest, Romania.
Books:
“Life and War” features his powerful documentation of conflict zones.
“Pursuit of Happiness,” showcasing moments of joy amidst hardships.
Films:
Featured in “Muhammed Muheisen: Finding the Light,” a National Geographic documentary episode currently streaming on Disney+ and Hulu,