Under the ravages of natural disasters, the Eaton Fire in Los Angeles was like a sudden storm, which ruthlessly swept through the multicultural community of Altadena, wiping out the tranquility and beauty of the past. However, in the ashes of this disaster, photographer and writer Zaydee Sanchez (@zaydee.s) captures those subtle but powerful moments on camera, presenting us with a story of resilience, hope, and reconstruction.

In early 2024, the raging flames of the Eaton Fire engulfed thousands of buildings in Altadena, killing at least 17 people and leaving thousands homeless. This historically black neighborhood, one of the few places to offer home loans to blacks during the Civil Rights movement, has witnessed the unity and struggle of the black community. However, the raging fire has destroyed all this, leaving behind the devastation and endless grief. Altadena, once a haven for multiculturalism, has become synonymous with ruin.

Through Zaydee's lens, we see 18-year-old high school student Anniah Baynes feeling helpless and lost after losing her home. She stood on the ruins, her eyes full of uncertainty and fear for the future. However, facing the disaster with her grandmother, aunt, and younger siblings, she gradually learned to be strong and responsible. Despite the trauma, she tried to remain calm and provide moral support for her family.
Zaydee Sanchez
© Zaydee Sanchez
Zaydee Sanchez
© Zaydee Sanchez
The story of Carolina Ramirez-Sanchez is equally moving. Standing in the ruins of her home of 21 years, she recalled the hard work and sweat her parents had put into buying the house. The fire not only destroyed her home, but she also lost valuable items such as medical books, her husband's van, and tools. Faced with the sudden disaster, Sanchez felt heartbroken and helpless. However, with the support and help of the community, she began to re-plan for the future and work hard to get out of the haze.
Zaydee Sanchez
© Zaydee Sanchez
Delva Gibson, 82, and her husband lost their home of nearly 52 years in the fire. The old man, who immigrated from Brazil, had spent countless warm and happy times here. However, in the face of disaster, Gibson did not despair. She held her husband close and faced the future with love and hope.
Zaydee Sanchez
© Zaydee Sanchez
Zaydee Sanchez
© Zaydee Sanchez
In addition to these individual stories, Zaydee also captures through the lens how communities come together and help each other in the face of disaster. At donation centers, temporary settlements, and other places, the busy figure of volunteers and the eyes of the affected residents are intertwined, forming a moving picture.
Zaydee Sanchez
© Zaydee Sanchez