The Karo tribe is known for their expertise in body paint, face-masks, hair, etc. But what all Karo women (and men) share in common are scars. Dozens of scars line their stomach and chest – for men, it’s the chest only. When Karo daughters are young, their grandmothers and mothers cut their stomachs with a knife. Then, ash is rubbed into the wound in order to irritate it. This essentially creates an enormous welt. Omo Valley, Southern Ethiopia, 2013.

Young Hamar boy looks after his families goats. A families goats are there most treasured possession, supplying the family with nutrition and currency when needing to marry a child away. Omo Valley, Southern Ethiopia, 2013.