From Student to Trainer: Joyce Mollan’s Journey in Media

Opportunities often begin with a spark, an idea, a moment of encouragement, or a chance to take the first step. For Joyce Mollan, that spark came through her love of media and her determination to create space for women in a field that too often excludes them. Today, Joyce is recognized as a talented sports photographer and also serves as the personal photographer for a Ugandan Minister. Alongside her professional achievements, she is a trainer with Cameras For Girls, guiding younger women in discovering the power of photography. Her journey highlights what becomes possible when women take charge of their own paths and then reach back to help others rise with them.

Photo of Samantha Aleni, 5th Cohort, Uganda, taken by Joyce Mollan

A Passion for Storytelling

Joyce describes herself as “a passionate media professional committed to creating opportunities for young women in storytelling, photography, and journalism.” While her career has taken her to the sidelines of sporting events and into political circles as a personal photographer, her motivation extends beyond her own portfolio. What drives her most is seeing others, especially girls, realize that their voices and images matter.

The Challenges She Faced

Before training with Cameras For Girls, Joyce had a dream that felt heavy with uncertainty. She recalls being “someone with a dream but little hope—a passion without a plan.” She had talent and determination, but she also witnessed countless young women being shut out of media roles simply because they lacked access, mentorship, or confidence.

With training and a supportive community, Joyce began to see her potential more clearly. In time, she also found herself in the position to extend that same support to the next generation of young women, who also dreamed of their place in male-dominated media.

Learning Through Teaching

As Joyce moved from student to trainer, she discovered that teaching shaped her as much as photography did. She says the experience taught her “patience, humility, and the importance of consistently showing up.” For her, mentorship is about more than teaching technical skills; it is about nurturing courage and self-belief.

Working alongside younger girls, Joyce has seen the transformation that happens when someone realizes they can hold a camera, frame a story, and create an image that speaks to the world.

A Photo That Speaks Volumes

Among the many photographs Joyce has taken, one portrait remains deeply meaningful: a young girl smiling as she held a camera for the very first time.

“It wasn’t just a smile—it was the visible spark of possibility and courage. That image symbolizes the beginning of a journey many never thought they would be allowed to take.”

This single moment captures the essence of why Joyce continues to teach: photography can unlock something powerful: confidence, agency, and a sense of belonging.

The Power of Community

Even as a trainer, Joyce continues to learn. Being mentored by other women and professionals has shown her the value of community and collaboration. “Knowing that you’re free to make mistakes, because someone will guide you without judgment, is invaluable,” she says.

Beyond technical skills, she has gained a network of peers and colleagues who inspire and support her growth, both as a photographer and as a mentor.

Today, Joyce’s vision extends beyond her own career. She dreams of more women behind the camera, in newsrooms, and in leadership positions. She envisions a media landscape that is more inclusive, diverse, and reflective of women’s voices and perspectives.

Her Words to Young Women

To girls who feel they are not good enough for media or journalism, Joyce offers this reminder:

“You are more than enough. You don’t have to know everything from the start—just begin. Take that first photo, tell that first story, raise your hand, speak your truth. You belong in media, and your voice matters.”

Joyce’s story is one of persistence, growth, and shared leadership. From sports fields to political offices to classrooms, her lens captures both the world as it is and the possibilities of what it can become. Her journey from student to trainer reflects how women are not just breaking into media spaces; they are reshaping them.