Born in Colombia in 1997 and raised in South East London, Maria Camila Bañol Montoya explores identity, belonging, and heritage through community engagement, creative direction and photography. Her work focuses on the Latin American community in London—a community that has yet to be recognised in the British Census. Through photography, she documents its presence, culture and resilience, using her practice as a way to archive histories that have not been recorded. By connecting with her roots and the people around her, Camila’s work highlights the importance of representation and storytelling in shaping collective memory.

I AM Inspired by…

Sending my love and gratitude to a group that has played such an important role in helping me understand and reconnect with my Colombian heritage—a space where I have felt truly empowered and seen. I used to be part of the rehearsal group, and though I’m no longer actively rehearsing, I will always cherish the memories and the sense of community that Yurupari has created.

Founded in 1988 by Colombian dancers Jorge Hurtado and Xihomara Zentner, Yurupari is now led by their daughter, Isabel Zentner, who is carrying the group forward with a vision for growth. She is working towards establishing Yurupari as a CIC, ensuring it remains an inclusive space for those wanting to connect with their Colombian heritage—a place where stories, archived through dance, can be rediscovered and shared.

These images capture the love and resilience of a group dedicated to keeping Colombian culture alive and accessible here in London.