Paris Dakar by bike to meet climate benefactors

Paris Dakar by bike to meet climate benefactors

A book to illuminate the “benefactors of the climate”

NOOR – From Paris to Dakar is a hybrid editorial project combining travel narrative, documentary photography, and testimonies from people actively engaged in environmental action. The book retraces a bicycle expedition linking Paris to Dakar, conceived as a human and ecological journey to meet individuals working on concrete solutions for the planet. 

A journey that reveals inspiring people

In 2022, a unique adventure took shape: cycling from Paris to Dakar to meet, along thousands of kilometers of roads and landscapes, women and men who act daily to protect the environment.

From this expedition emerged NOOR – From Paris to Dakar, a photographic and narrative book project that is now seeking publication in 2026.

The word “Noor” means light in Arabic. In this context, it symbolizes the light carried by those who—often away from the spotlight—are inventing practical solutions to environmental and social challenges.

Throughout the journey, the expedition crosses territories, cultures, and landscapes while giving voice to committed actors: local associations, farmers, scientists, social entrepreneurs, environmental activists, and engaged citizens.

The goal is simple: to highlight positive and inspiring actions in response to the climate crisis.

A deeply human adventure

The book also tells the personal story behind the expedition. Born in the Paris suburbs, the author recounts a life shaped by music, encounters, and a gradual awakening to environmental issues. The birth of his daughter becomes a turning point: it becomes impossible to remain a spectator while the world we will leave to future generations continues to deteriorate. NOOR_Livre_compressed (1)

It is from this realization that the idea of the expedition emerged: traveling by bicycle to meet those who are already building alternatives.

This journey is also an inner exploration. Doubt, fatigue, unexpected encounters, and moments of grace shape the adventure. Each stage becomes an opportunity to question our relationship with nature, society, and our responsibilities as citizens.

A book between photography and documentary storytelling

The project takes the form of a large-format photographic book, enriched with narrative texts and interviews.

The photographs taken during the expedition capture the diversity of landscapes and people encountered along the route: cities, villages, deserts, forgotten roads, but also portraits of individuals who are working to protect biodiversity or develop new social and economic models.

The book combines several dimensions:

  • travel narrative
  • human portraits
  • interviews with climate actors
  • documentary photography
  • personal reflections on ecology and transmission

Together, these elements create a human fresco connecting Europe and Africa around a shared challenge: the future of our planet.

Why publish the book in 2026

At a time when climate issues have become central to global discussions, NOOR – From Paris to Dakar proposes a different approach: highlighting solutions rather than focusing only on problems.

The book aims to:

  • inspire a new generation of engagement
  • highlight concrete local initiatives
  • create a bridge between territories and cultures
  • convey a message of hope and action

Publishing the book in 2026 will allow the project to reach a wide audience in France and internationally.

A call for publishers and sponsors

To bring this book to life, the project is currently seeking:

  • a publisher interested in supporting a work that combines storytelling, photography, and environmental commitment
  • sponsors or partners sensitive to climate, cultural, and educational issues

The support of partners will make it possible to:

  • finalize the editorial production of the book
  • print a high-quality publication
  • organize exhibitions and events around the project
  • share the message with a broad audience

Supporting NOOR – From Paris to Dakar means helping to shine a light on those who are already working to build a more sustainable world.