Celebrating representation: "Love, Black Men" photography exhibit shines a light on Brandeis’ Black community
Photo Credit: Mary Horan
May 1, 2025
When Efosa Ologbosere ’27 looked around campus, she noticed something missing. As a politics and American studies major, with minors in legal studies and studio art, she had always been passionate about representation. But one group, in particular, seemed to be overlooked: Black men at Brandeis.
Efosa Ologbosere ’27
Photo/Courtesy
Determined to highlight their presence and contributions, she created “Love, Black Men,” a powerful photography exhibit displayed during Black History Month. The exhibit is currently on view at the Create@Brandeis Wall in Usdan near Dunkin', and after the semester ends, it will be permanently installed in the Brandeis Library — ensuring that its message of representation and empowerment continues to inspire students for years to come.
Through her lens, she sought to honor and showcase the stories of Black men on campus, portraying them in a way that is often absent from mainstream narratives.
A mission to represent
“Black men on campus weren’t as represented as other demographics,” she explained. “I wanted to honor and celebrate them through the lens of photography.”
She reached out to her peers — friends, acquaintances, complete strangers — and invited them to be part of the project. Using social media, cultural clubs, and word of mouth, she connected with students willing to participate. Her goal was to create a space where their stories could be told and their presence could be seen and appreciated by the broader Brandeis community.
Capturing authenticity
The response to the project was overwhelmingly positive. While some students were initially camera-shy, they soon embraced the opportunity to be photographed and recognized. “A lot of them were excited to be a part of it. Of course, some were hesitant about being displayed, which is totally fair,” she said. “But once they understood my mission, they became really enthusiastic. I kept getting messages asking, ‘When are the final photos coming out?’”
Using campus resources like the Sound and Image Media Studios (SIMS), she captured each subject in a way that highlighted their individuality, confidence and joy. “One of the most memorable moments was watching them open up in front of the camera,” she said. “At first, they’d be a little reserved, but then you start complimenting them, and suddenly, they’re smiling, showing their true personality.”
Why representation matters
For Ologbosere, the project is deeply personal. “As the daughter, sister and girlfriend of strong Black men, I recognize that they aren’t always celebrated the way they should be,” she said. “They are mentors, teachers, professors, companions and friends. We need to empower this group of people and highlight their contributions.”
She hopes that “Love, Black Men” will give visibility to the subjects in the photos and encourage a broader conversation about representation and inclusion on campus. “I wanted the entire school to connect with them the way I did. It’s important that we recognize and celebrate Black men in our community, not just during Black History Month, but every day.”
Through photography, Ologbosere has created a space for acknowledgment, appreciation and love — a testament to the power of art in amplifying voices that too often go unheard.
