Lecture up to 1 hour
Self-Improvement | AGD Subject Code 770

Platon, a master communicator and storyteller, has photographed a remarkable array of individuals—from the world’s most powerful leaders to everyday citizens. Through these encounters, he strips away the façade of difference to reveal the deep threads of common humanity.

In this evocative presentation, Platon calls for unity and optimism during a time of global transformation and division. He illustrates how mankind can move forward—not in spite of differences, but because of them. Drawing on poignant, behind-the-scenes stories of his iconic portraits, Platon shares lessons in leadership and compassion from figures such as George Clooney, Edward Snowden, Dr Denis Mukwege, and U.S. military heroes.

Participants will be taken on an emotional journey, leaving them with new perspectives on empathy, human dignity, and the power of storytelling to create positive change.

Upon completion of this session, attendees should be able to:

• Recognize the role of storytelling and visual art in fostering empathy, connection, and cultural understanding.
• Apply lessons in leadership and compassion from global changemakers to personal and professional interactions.

Platon does not have any affiliations to disclose.

Platon is one of the world’s most renowned portrait photographers, having captured more world leaders than anyone else in history—including six American presidents. He has photographed over 30 covers for TIME magazine, including the iconic 2008 “Person of the Year” cover featuring Vladimir Putin, which won first prize at the World Press Photo Contest.

In 2008, Platon became a staff photographer for The New Yorker, where his powerful photo essays earned him a Peabody Award and two National Magazine Awards. He has published four books, with subjects ranging from the influence of global leaders to the dignity of those who serve in the U.S. military.

In 2013, Platon founded The People’s Portfolio, a non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating emerging leaders in human and civil rights around the world. Through compelling visual storytelling, the foundation creates a language that breaks down barriers, uplifts human dignity, combats discrimination, and mobilizes public support for justice. Platon currently serves on the Arts and Culture Board at the World Economic Forum.

Platon’s life and work are featured in the Netflix documentary Abstract: The Art of Design. His first film, My Body Is Not a Weapon, highlights survivors of wartime sexual violence and 2018 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Dr Denis Mukwege. In 2020, the Smithsonian Institution acquired Platon’s archive of prominent African American civil rights and cultural leaders.

In 2022, Platon headlined TED Vancouver, championing the power of curiosity over judgment. His second film, Portrait of a Stranger, was produced in partnership with the United Nations and honors the voices of refugees from around the globe. His latest book, The Defenders—released in May 2024—was created in collaboration with The People’s Portfolio and celebrates human rights activists worldwide.