Teaching Artist Spotlight: Itzel Robles Sandoval

Teaching Artist Spotlight: Itzel Robles Sandoval


Itzel Robles Sandoval serves as the Teacher Assistant for the Bronx Documentary Center's middle school photography class (MS2). In this role, she collaborates with lead teaching artist Pasinee Pramunwong to support and inspire young photographers. Now in her second year with the MS2 class, Itzel is dedicated to fostering creativity and guiding students as they explore storytelling through photography. Below are a few reflections and photos she has captured during her time with the class.

What inspires you most about working with young photographers and filmmakers at the Bronx Documentary Center?
What inspires me most about working with young photographers at the Bronx Documentary Center is the opportunity to give back the same guidance I once received as a student here. Returning as a teacher has been one of my best decisions—not only do I get to support them, but I also learn from them and provide a space for them to explore creativity and storytelling.

How do you encourage students to use photography for storytelling and social change?
I encourage students to harness photography as a tool for storytelling and social change, urging them to see their cameras as a lens to the world. I encourage them to share unique narratives, whether exploring their family histories or new communities. By fostering curiosity and encouraging them to seek out new perspectives, I help them understand that they hold the power to capture extraordinary moments—if they dare to step beyond their comfort zones.
 
What memorable moments showcase or highlight your students’ creativity or growth?
The memorable moments that highlight the students’ creativity and growth are often captured in their adventurous explorations with photography, usually seen at their end-of-the-year exhibition, where each shot reveals a fresh perspective and a greater understanding of themselves and the world around them.