In a new photography exhibition at the Immigration Museum, Nigerian-Australian photographer Dr Ayooluwatomiwa ‘Ibukun’ Oloruntoba is exploring what it means to be African-Australian, while highlighting the importance of culturally safe spaces for diasporic communities in Australia.
The 27-year-old Oloruntoba is a doctor by day (holding an MD as well as a PhD in the applications of AI in dermatology), but has been taking photographs since being gifted a point and shoot camera by his father at a young age. The black and white photographs, taken on 35mm film, are observational in content but reveal more than their subjects—offering a glimpse into the depth and diversity of African-Australian culture.
“We Outside is celebratory slang that captures the joy of coming together—attending events, connecting with friends and sharing meaningful experiences,” says Oloruntoba. “This project celebrates African-Australian identity—our spaces, our stories and our experiences. It’s about more than documentation; it’s about representation.”
View, in pictures, the heart of Melbourne’s young African-Australian communities.
All above photographs by Nigerian-Australian photographer Dr Ayooluwatomiwa ‘Ibukun’ Oloruntoba. Courtesy of the Immigration Museum.
We Outside
Immigration Museum
On now—17 August
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