On the Brink: A Photojournalist's Preparation for Conflict Zones

In war zones, staying safe is paramount. My HEFAT training, honed over seventeen years, is vital for survival, enabling informed, responsible reporting amidst the chaos and dangers of conflict.

As a seasoned photojournalist with a focus on conflict zones, I stand on the cusp of another pivotal journey. My seventeen years in the field have led me to a return to Ukraine, as the nation confronts the third year of Russia's full-scale invasion. This assignment is a continuation of my on-the-ground coverage in Ukraine in 2022 and my reporting from the volatile Western Balkans — particularly in Kosovo and Serbia. In these regions, I have witnessed firsthand Serbia's alignment with Kremlin policies and its ensuing territorial and constitutional encroachments on Kosovo. My readiness for this year’s conflict reporting is fortified by the completion of another intensive Hostile Environment and First Aid Training (HEFAT) and Hostile Environment Trauma (HET) course, equipping me with the vital skills needed for reporting in these high-risk areas.

In the video below, a simulated scenario unfolds where individuals have stepped on landmines. As trainees, we were given the chance to apply our…