Hichem Ben Salem

Hichem Ben Salem, a 42-year-old from a date palm oasis in southern Tunisia, is the lifeline for his community as a septic tank pumper. Each day begins before dawn, navigating sand and roots to ensure the palms and people have what they need. By night, Hichem is troubled both by the fear of mechanical failure and the elusive word that teases him with its absence, a poignant reminder of the fragility of memory.