ABOUT | Meli Photojournalist

BIOGRAPHY

Meli Petersson Ellafi is a Swedish photojournalist based in Stockholm, known for her compelling visual storytelling and impactful investigative work. Educated at the Nordic School of Photography, Meli has built a career characterized by a dedication to capturing the human experience in its most raw and honest forms.

Meli's journey began with a freelance contract at the evening paper Expressen, where she covered major news events and crafted in-depth reportages. Her tenure at Göteborgs-Posten between 2018 and 2021 further honed her skills, allowing her to delve deeply into social issues and human interest stories. Today, as an independent photojournalist, Meli continues to explore critical topics with empathy and precision.

Meli has been honored with several prestigious awards, including the Guldspaden for investigative journalism and the Wendelapriset for social impact reporting. In 2024, she was named "Photographer of the Year," a testament to her exceptional contributions to the field of photojournalism.

One of her most notable projects is the investigative reportage series ”Systrar," co-created with journalist Michael Verdicchio. This groundbreaking series, which examines the sex trade involving young teenage girls in Sweden, has received significant acclaim, including the INMA Global Media Award and nominations for the Swedish Grand Prize for Journalism. "Systrar" also won the Guldspaden and the Wendelapriset, underscoring its profound impact on society.

Meli's work has been exhibited at renowned venues such as Fotografiska in Stockholm and Galleri Kontrast, showcasing her ability to capture the poignant and often unseen moments of everyday life. Through her lens, she invites audiences to engage with the stories that shape our world, fostering a deeper understanding and connection.

Explore Meli's portfolio and discover the stories that drive her passion for photojournalism.