What, Why, Who
Over Veterans
Over Kms on road
Over Volunteer Hours
The Initiative
Without any organisational backing, fine art photographer Jenani Therone embarked on an extraordinary 36,000 kms journey across Australia, and over 6,000 volunteer-hours, to bring Of Service to life. Fuelled by her dedication to honouring those who served, Jenani travelled coast-to-coast, creating powerful portraits of veterans in locations filled with deep personal significance to each of them.
At its heart, Of Service is about igniting hope and giving life a second chance. Through intimate portraits and deeply personal stories, this publication highlights veterans as individuals who have faced immense struggles—emotional, psychological, and physical. It is a testament to their courage in fighting the silent battles, reflecting the profound strength required to rebuild, recover, and find purpose again. Each story reveals that even after the darkest moments, hope can prevail, and life can be rediscovered.
A personal mission to ignite a spark of hope to those in need of it most…
With a determination to create a fine art publication that would last through generations, Jenani travelled to Florence, Italy, the home of art, to give Of Service its physical form. Printed by Conti Tipocolor, renowned fifth generation printers in Florence, servicing centuries-old galleries and museums across Europe. Jenani fondly describes the journey: “Of Service, conceived in Australia and born in Italy.” The book’s craftsmanship reflects the timeless nature of the stories it tells, ensuring they endure for years to come.
Of Service is a labour of love. A self-funded mission to offer inspiration and hope to the broader community. It speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and reminds us all that, even when pushed to the edge, there is always a path back.
The Of Service fine art publication was launched at the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne, on 20 June 2024, in front of a packed audience, including the Victorian State Minister for Veterans. This profoundly emotional event underscored the project’s significance to both the veteran community and the broader public. The publication is also available at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra—another milestone that reflects the relevance of this work, not only to veterans but to the community at large.
- Ideation
- Initial concept
- Pilot testing of concept
- Meeting the veterans
- Post production
- Editorial concepts
- Meeting the veterans
- Post Production
- Editorial
- Pre-press works
- Print production
- Book launch
- Author talks and distribution
- Website launch
When We Met…
Each encounter captured in Of Service began with a moment of trust, vulnerability, and connection. These behind-the-scenes images offer a glimpse into the heartfelt journey shared between Jenani Therone and the veterans who opened their lives to her lens.
Through their stories and portraits, these remarkable individuals remind us of the resilience, sacrifice, and humanity that define their lives. With every handshake, every laugh, and every tear, a deeper understanding of their experiences took shape—moments that became the heart and soul of this fine art publication.
Of Service is more than a book; it is a tribute, a lifeline, and a testament to the power of storytelling to inspire hope and healing. By purchasing a copy, you not only honour these veterans but also support vital mental health advocacy and suicide prevention efforts.
This is your chance to become part of their story—because every page tells a story that deserves to be heard.
We Extend Our Gratitude…
At every crucial juncture of this long and heartfelt journey, Of Service, when the road seemed uncertain, there were those who stood by us, lending their support and belief in the vision of Of Service. To our incredible partner—Radlink Communications, U-Haul Australia, About Underwriting, Red-Tops, Rusty Music Co, Buller Communications, Musc Media, Conti Tipocolor, Harvest Publishing, The Good Black Sheep, Michael Cane, Jennine Riches, AM—you were there when it mattered, helping us take each next step.
Your generosity, encouragement, and shared commitment to honouring veterans and advocating for mental health have been the foundation of this project. We have turned a passion into a tangible force for hope, healing, and connection.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of this journey and for making Of Service a reality. We could not have done it without you.