National Geographic Explorer Muhammed Muheisen shares stories from behind the lens

Susan Bland

13 Mar 2026

In this image taken by photojournalist Muhammed Muheisen, a balloon vendor walks beside his bicycle on a misty street, holding a large cluster of brightly colored balloons floating above him while another cyclist rides past in the background. — A striking image captured by photojournalist and National Geographic Explorer Muhammed Muheisen. Photo courtesy of Muhammed Muheisen.

Two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist and National Geographic Explorer Muhammed Muheisen believes a single image can change the world. Muheisen takes the Center for the Arts stage on Tuesday, April 7, at 7:30 p.m., to share powerful stories from behind the lens and reflect on a career spent capturing resilience, displacement, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Documenting major events in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and the U.S., Muheisen takes an unflinching but hopeful look at lives impacted by war. From children’s games to balloon salesmen, his images capture the kindness and resilience of humanity in difficult situations as he consistently bears witness to the power of visual stories.

According to Muheisen, “Photos are never just pictures; these are voices, these are messages, and these are testimonies that live forever.”

The photographer is the founder and chairman of the Dutch nonprofit Everyday Refugees Foundation, as well as a Global Ambassador for Canon. He has received numerous accolades for his work, including two Pulitzer Prizes and a 2023 National Geographic Wayfinder Award. He was featured in the 2024 National Geographic Disney+ series “Photographer.”

Portrait of photographer and National Geographic Explorer Muhammed Muheisen wearing a navy shirt, standing outdoors with a softly blurred background of autumn foliage. — Muhammed Muheisen. Photo courtesy of Mark Thiessen.

National Geographic Live brings awe-inspiring stories from the field to audiences around the world through its touring live events. National Geographic Explorers share behind-the-scenes stories and stunning visuals that ignite curiosity and inspire real-world impact.

This event is co-sponsored by Virginia Tech’s Center for Refugee, Migrant, and Displacement Studies and is recommended for ages 11 and up.

Related events

During his visit to Virginia Tech, Muheisen will share his unique approach to blending high-impact photojournalism with global humanitarian work with School of Communication students.

Tickets

Tickets are $25 for general admission and $10 for students and youth 18 and under. Tickets can be purchased online; at the Center for the Arts box office, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; or by calling 540-231-5300 during box office hours.

Venue and parking information

The performance will be held in the center’s Anne and Ellen Fife Theatre, located within the Street and Davis Performance Hall at 190 Alumni Mall. Convenient parking is available in the North End Parking Garage on Turner Street and in downtown Blacksburg. Find more parking details online.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Jonathan Boulter at least 10 days prior to the event at 540-231-5300 or email jboulter@vt.edu during regular business hours.