Keeping Bears Wild

Jessica Hadley Awarded Vital Impacts 2024 - 2025 Environmental Photography Mentorship

Vital Impacts 2024 - 2025 Environmental Photography Grants and Mentorships recognize the powerful legacies of seven iconic environmental leaders and pay tribute to the extraordinary contribution they have made.

This year, Vital Impacts distributed $50,000 in grants and awarded ten transformative mentorships, empowering local photographers who are addressing critical environmental challenges in their communities.

Ten emerging photographers from diverse regions—including Brazil, Iran, and Nigeria—will participate in an intensive mentorship program designed to enhance their storytelling skills and artistic vision.

Over the span of twelve months, these individuals will have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one sessions with industry experts, renowned photographers, and influential photo editors. Through these sessions, participants will refine their storytelling skills, receive guidance on navigating the industry, and establish vital connections.

Jessica Hadley, United States

Jessica Hadley has spent the last decade focusing on human-wildlife interactions, particularly in National Parks. She will document the importance of wild bears in Yosemite and the efforts of wildlife biologists to prevent human-bear conflicts. This is Jessica’s second year as a Vital Impacts Mentorship recipient.