International Photo Contest 2023/2024

The International Programs Office is proud to announce the winner of the eighth annual International Photo Contest at the Alberta School of Business.

GRAND PRIZE WINNER

Nolan's entry "A Brisk Fall Morning in the Alps" was chosen from among the 10 finalists by a selection panel of faculty, staff and student representatives of the School of Business and the online vote. As the grand prize winner, he will receive a $500 prize and have his photo displayed in the Alberta School of Business. span>

RUNNER UP

All the entries selected as finalists were outstanding in their own right and represented a wide variety of perspectives and experiences. Some showcased personal adventures in breathtaking settings, others depicted a sense of venturing out into the unknown, and still, others portrayed the character and culture of local people in a meaningful way. For this reason, they are all very difficult to compare to one another. All these entries were worthy in their own way and deserve recognition and appreciation.

Thank you to everyone for making the 2023/2024 Alberta School of Business International Photo Contest a great success!

2023/2024 Finalists:

Behind Happiness
(Vincent) Kin Lo, MBA 2024
Florence, Italy

On my trip to Florence, Italy, I met a weary clown who fell asleep with a cigarette dangling from his lip, but more fell to the ground. With his once-vibrant makeup now melted, it's not hard to tell he surrendered to exhaustion after a day of spreading joy. Capturing the moment through my lens, I can feel the silent struggles behind those who give happiness, reminding us that even the bringers of laughter carry their own burdens. I hope this photo brings all of us a lesson learned to care for those who selflessly light up our lives.

Gangnam Style
Hannah Cha, BCom 2024
Gangnam, South Korea

Korea is known for their music, exquisite cuisine, and trendy cafes. Enjoying a cup of coffee with friends or family is a cultural staple. After 18 years away, I returned to Korea surprised by the variety of cafes. Located in Gangnam, this one is called Mamma Mia, inspired by the classic film. The beautiful greenery is meant to represent a fairy garden, mirroring the enchanting allure of Greece. This experience goes beyond coffee; it's a reminder of cultural warmth and connection found in Korea. Immersing in such spaces can be a positive journey, making the voyage to Korea enriching.

Nara, Japan Deer
Dawn Dechene, BCom 2027
Nara, Japan

Immersed in Japan’s vibrant culture, I absorbed new traditions, values, and societal norms. This exposure fostered, a broader worldview, encouraging adaptability and appreciation for diversity; witnessing Japan’s distinct way of life enriched my understanding of global interconnectedness, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange. I believe the experience of travelling serves as an unparallel educator, offering first had experiences that textbooks cannot provide. Exposure to different customs, languages and traditions cultivates adaptability and global perspective, crucial for navigating an increasingly interconnected world.

Spice
Riley Mortemore, BCom 2027
Barcelona, Spain

Traveling is the closest any of us can get to walking in the shoes of those form another place it is a looking glass that allows our perspective and shift and for that reason is absolutely vital.

Historical Framing
Luke Penner, MBA 2024
Manitou Cliff Dwellings, Colorado

Discovering the ancient infrastructure at the Manitou Cliff Dwellings provided me with a beautiful lens blending history and nature. I was captivated by this view from within the dwellings, framing the Colorado landscape as the Ancestral Puebloans may have seen it centuries ago. This encounter had a positive impact on me and reiterated the importance of striving to preserve the natural beauty of this world.

SwissSky
Rohaan Amer, BCom 2026
Mt. Pilatus, Switzerland

Exploring beyond Canadian borders for study and travel has been transformative, fostering personal growth. Embracing diverse cultures heightened adaptability, emphasizing the importance of a global mindset. Particularly, Switzerland captivated me with its breathtaking beauty, underscoring the significance of immersing oneself in the world's wonders. Acknowledging our interconnectedness is vital for tackling global challenges, making these international experiences essential for personal development and fostering unity.

Traverse (Runner-up)
Teressa Yu, BCom 2024
Seoul, South Korea

Studying in South Korea was a catalyst for profound change, igniting a fervor to explore beyond borders. The vibrant tapestry of its culture, language, and people invigorated my curiosity. It served as a stepping stone, prompting me to seek more enriching experiences worldwide. Each encounter, every unfamiliar corner explored, has been a mosaic of inspiration, broadening my worldview. Stepping outside Canada's borders unlocked a treasury of perspectives, fostering empathy and understanding.

Nightscapes of Kyoto
Chris Wang, MBA 2025
Kyoto, Japan

Travelling enriches individuals, exposing them to diverse cultures, personal growth, and helps promote global awareness. I found travelling/studying abroad helped stimulate creativity and innovation by gaining a new perspective and appreciation of different cultures. Travelling and studying abroad helps broaden horizons, shaping open minded individuals who contribute positively to a globally connected world

Shangri-la: The Lost Horizon (Runner-up)
Shida Liu, MBA 2025
Shangri-la, Yunnan, China

Last summer, I traveled around South China with my wife and our little dog and passed through Shangri-La - a small town made famous by British author James Hilton's novel Lost Horizon. The people here practice Tibetan Buddhism and have chosen to stay true to their homeland and uphold their traditions despite the fact that this small town is so world-famous. This expanded my worldview and taught me to understand and respect the choices of others.

A Brisk Fall Morning in the Alps (Grand Prize Winner)
Nolan Jackson, BCom 2025
Hallstatt, Austria

I studied abroad this past semester in Vienna, Austria and it not only was it a ton of fun, but it also broadened my worldview greatly and allowed me to connect with so many interesting people from all across the world.