Alejandre

Meet Alejandre. He's 10 yrs old and was selling bracelets along the front of Copacabana today. It was easy to get him talking when he tried to sell me something. He goes to school, said he likes it and has two sisters and a brother, all younger than him. I didn't ask him where he lives, but I'm sure it's one of the favelas. We struck a deal that if I bought something, I could take his picture. I think he'd have let me photograph him anyway. He was a quiet wee lad and had a lovely bright smile, especially when I asked if he spoke English and he whispered, 'how are you?'. He couldn't believe I'd understood him! Here's to you Alejandre and to a better life for you.

PS: the thing in his hand is the cardboard tube used for carrying his bracelets.