Meet Yijo Shen

We recently connected with Yijo Shen and have shared our conversation below.

Yijo, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?

As a passionate visual storyteller, I delve into the world through my lens, focusing on narratives that often go unnoticed. To truly capture these stories, I engage all my senses and embrace the courage to connect with my surroundings. Fueled by the thrill of seizing unforgettable moments and sharing them with others, I consistently create compelling visual stories that not only ignite my creativity but also inspire meaningful conversations.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am a DC-based multimedia storyteller originally from Taipei. I produce stories that spotlight human rights, press freedom, and the lived experiences of diaspora communities.

My work has been recognized by the Women Photojournalists of Washington (WPOW), the Online Journalism Awards (OJA), and the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA). Coming from an international and journalism background, Yi-Jo is driven by a commitment to visual storytelling that bridges cultures and challenges censorship. Her recent projects explore themes of identity, resistance, and exile across East Asia and the United States. Passionate about crafting narratives that inform and inspire, they are building a visual practice grounded in empathy, clarity, and truth.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Among all the technical skills, curiosity and enthusiasm are undoubtedly the most essential. While challenges and setbacks may dampen these traits, they don’t spell disaster. Embrace what ignites your passion and develop your unique voice. Customize your videos for the platforms where they will shine. Forge meaningful connections with fellow creators, actively exchange feedback, and continually immerse yourself in content that inspires you—dissect it and explore why it resonates. This approach will empower you to elevate your craft and make a lasting impact.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

I enjoy rock climbing during my free time. It can be frustrating when being rejected several times. As I rock climb, I have to focus on every step and every move, and this gives me a chance to experience living in the moment.

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