In Jaipur’s arid Thar desert, Manisha and Jasmin Singh stand in a centuries-old stepwell — an architectural marvel once brimming with water and life. Built to sustain entire communities through harsh dry seasons, many of these wells now lie empty. As groundwater vanishes, women must walk farther each year to find what was once at their doorstep.

Ami Vitale’s career stands as a testament to her deep dedication to documenting and addressing global crises. As an acclaimed National Geographic photographer, writer, and documentary filmmaker, as well as the founder of Vital Impacts, Ami has consistently spotlighted critical issues affecting our world. Her journey began in conflict zones, where she observed firsthand how environmental degradation—from resource scarcity to climate change—intensifies human suffering and conflict.

Follow Ami on Instagram @amivitale