About Me

I am Miguel Amortegui, a passionate and versatile storyteller committed to bringing untold narratives to life. My journey in storytelling has taken me across various domains, including photography, filmmaking, investigative journalism, participatory photography training, psychotherapy, and specialization in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

My canvas is rich and diverse, where I skillfully harness the tools of photography and film to craft stories that resonate deeply. I've had the privilege of working with an eclectic clientele, ranging from commercial organizations to not-for-profit groups and social enterprises. Notable entities such as the BBC, Christian Aid, ODI (Overseas Development Institute), Bank Santander, PhotoVoice, Calista Advertisement, FSI Law, Botswana High Commission, Frontier Economics, and more have entrusted me with their stories. My work has graced not only the UK but also international exhibitions across Europe, the United States, Africa, and South America.

One of the most significant chapters of my journey unfolded in the heart of Africa, where I worked tirelessly in orphanages for child soldiers in Congo and Uganda. There, I witnessed the resilience of young souls who had endured unimaginable hardships. Through my lens and unwavering support, I aimed to amplify their voices, shedding light on the plight of child soldiers and the urgent need for healing and reintegration.

Closer to home, I ventured into the vibrant yet challenging landscape of London, where I worked closely with gang members. My mission was to provide them with an alternative path, a way out of the cycle of violence and despair. Through participatory photography and storytelling, I encouraged these young individuals to express themselves creatively, offering them a glimpse of hope and the possibility of transformation.

My journey led me to the infamous refugee camp known as "the Jungle" in Calais, France. Immersed in this challenging environment, I devoted the majority of my time to teaching refugees the art of photography. Through their newfound skills, they found a voice on social media platforms, allowing them to share their experiences and aspirations with the world. This experience culminated in my book, "Voices of the Jungle," a poignant compilation of stories from the refugee camp. Thanks to the profound impact of this work, I was invited to speak at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where I had the privilege of sharing the stories and struggles of those I had the honor to work with.

My storytelling journey extends beyond the lens. I am a trained participatory photography facilitator, driven by the belief that individuals within disadvantaged or marginalized communities possess the inherent ability to represent themselves and convey their narratives effectively. I've witnessed the transformational power of this approach in diverse settings, from engaging with urban gangs in London to collaborating with residents of Lima's sprawling slums in Peru. I've stood in solidarity with communities grappling with extreme poverty in Ghana and have co-created impactful documentaries with exiled individuals from Chile and Botswana.

In addition to my work as a storyteller, I have served as a Director of Photography and producer for several feature films, including one produced by the renowned James Ivory. These experiences have enriched my storytelling palette, allowing me to delve deeper into the realms of visual narratives.

However, it's my unwavering commitment to healing through narrative that truly defines my work. As a psychotherapist and counseling specialist, my focus lies in assisting individuals in navigating the complex terrain of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I firmly believe in the therapeutic potential of sharing traumatic experiences, a belief rooted in my extensive experiences. My work in psychotherapy is firmly grounded in the principles of trauma-informed care, recognizing its pivotal role in the journey to recovery. Through counseling and therapy, I've witnessed survivors not only reclaiming their lives but also finding resilience and strength in their narratives.

In my free time, I find joy in unconventional pursuits – swimming in the sea, rock climbing, and riding motorcycles with my oversized dog, Rocky. Add skateboarding and a thirst for exploring the world to the mix, and you have a glimpse into my adventurous side.

My passion and curiosity continue to fuel my work. I envision a world where storytelling transcends boundaries and empowers change. Through the compelling medium of visual storytelling, I aim to cultivate empathy, inspire transformation, and celebrate the rich tapestry of human existence.

As you delve into my portfolio on this website, you'll discover a diverse array of projects that reflect my enduring commitment to storytelling and healing. If you're interested in exploring these projects further or collaborating with me to harness the transformative power of narrative, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Clients

Bank Santander, Tuli Safari Lodge, Finest Stephan Innocent, Skyway, Siyabona Africa, Peermont, Frontier Economics, Mashatu Resort, H.F.C.C,  BFI, Botswana High Commission, Chief's Camp, LMAF, Chobe Marina Lodge, Lewisham Council, Mowana Resort, LFI, The Grand Palm, Photovoice, Calista Marketing , BBC, Golden Fleece Films, Diesterweg, Namibia Tourism Board, Ortho solutions, Instruct Integrating Biology, amongst others.