top of page

American Faces #68 - The epitome

  • Writer: Nielsen Studios Inc
    Nielsen Studios Inc
  • Nov 4, 2021
  • 2 min read




American Faces #68 might well be the epitome of what the American Faces series is about. Peter Oyebanji is a Nigerian-born Minnesotan and a student at Iowa State University studying Mechanical Engineering. He came to Minnesota over a decade ago by way of Cameroon where he, his sister and his mother began their journey towards the American dream. His father sent them off with hopes for a new life while he remained home in Nigeria where he still faithfully serves in the country’s Air Force. What this family has sacrificed to build a life here in the States is awe-inspiring. Especially when I think about the relative simplicity of living my entire life in one geographic region.



Continued below

While working as a model for me on a recent photoshoot for Zubaz (art directed by Randy Hatanpa, overseen by Jill O’ Flannagan, with make-up/wardrobe styling by Tracey Tischler), Peter became a quick friend to all on set and humbly shared a bit of his life with us. While I might have thought his Nigerian roots would have led him to a warmer climate, Peter has fully embraced being a Minnesotan, and is an all-around amazing guy. He said before embarking on his collegiate journey, he was a high school wrestler, in the National Honor Society, the Key Club (community volunteering) and part of a group called Pack of Friends that shares life with people with special needs.


As I look back through this series, each one of my subjects really redefines the American experience to me. I consider my story about Peter, and it makes me realize that while race, place and a whole host of other things can create division, when we strip all that stuff away and look at our common humanity, we find a deep connection with one another. We are humanity. Peter, you are what American Faces is all about!



 
 
 

Comentarios


Contact Nielsen Studios for people photography, product photography, industrial photography, lifestyle photography, architectural photography, location photography, studio photography, lifestyle photography, commercial photography, Minneapolis photographer, Minnesota photographer, Minnesota commercial photographer, Minneapolis Minnesota commercial photographer, Minneapolis commercial photographer
  • Black LinkedIn Icon
  • Black Instagram Icon
  • Black Facebook Icon
All digital content/commercial photography is copyright of Nielsen Studios Inc.  -2025-
bottom of page