International Photo Contest 2022/2023
The International Programs Office is proud to announce the winner of the seventh annual International Photo Contest at the Alberta School of Business.
GRAND PRIZE WINNER
Alex's entry "Walking on Clouds" 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. His entry and accompanying abstract conveyed the idea of stepping out of our comfort zone and expanding our understanding of the world.
RUNNER UP
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 2022/2023 Alberta School of Business International Photo Contest a great success!
2022/2023 Finalists:
Ahmed Nasreldin, BCom 2025
Citadel of Quaid Bay Alexandria, Egypt
Going back to visit my home country of Egypt this past year was a very eye-opening experience. Seeing the rich history that my country has to offer was a very fun opportunity and puts everything into perspective. Seeing the rich and vibrant culture my country has to offer is always special to me and it ties me back to my roots. Being in Egypt always brings me closer to my culture and it holds a special place in my heart.
Polignano a Mare at Blue Hour
Alex Webb, BCom 2023
Polignano a Mare, Italy
I spent the evening exploring the beautiful Adriatic town of Polignano a Mare in hopes to capture a moment that spoke to the beauty of the location as well as the lives of the people that lived there. With little to no luck, I began walking back to town as the sun disappeared beyond the horizon. In a serendipitous moment, I noticed a boat floating around an outcrop of rock towards the bay before me. I sat and photographed the two local fishermen in a truly memorable moment gifted to me by chance. There is immense beauty in the unexpected.
Walking on Clouds (Grand Prize Winner)
Alex Webb, BCom 2023
Gosau, Austria
Traveling grants unique moments that allow us to step outside what is comfortable and experience things beyond our preconceived limitations. Walking across a wire bridge, suspended thousands of feet in the air, is bound to teach you something about yourself, especially when you have a fear of heights. I am fortunate to have a climbing partner far braver than I that was willing to show off before coaching me up the climb. On the other side sweaty palms and butterflies in our stomachs are often moments we will hold on to forever.
The Courtyard
Caitlin Gee, BCom 2023
Blackness Castle, Linthgow, Scotland
On my most recent trip to the UK, I took the train to Linlithgow, Scotland to visit some of the town's historical sites. One of my favorites was Blackness Castle. I was fascinated by the serene yet almost eerie beauty of this decommissioned fortress. For me, solo travel has pushed me to grow and step out of my comfort zone in a way that nothing else ever has. Immersing myself in new cultures and ancient historical architecture has given me a multitude of new life experiences that, to me, will forever be invaluable, and I eagerly await my next adventure.
For the Love of
Caroline Xu, BCom 2024
Gwangjang Market, Seoul, South Korea
Sticky from the sauce of Korean pancakes, my fingers quickly snapped a picture of the famous Cho Yonsoon’s handmade noodle joint from the Netflix series “Street Food." I look at the owner with admiration and sorrow. Is this what success feels like? Working in a hot and crowded place for generously priced noodle bowls? I also see the love they put into their hard work, reminding me of my parents tirelessly working labor jobs to ensure I have a comfortable life. Life in Korea has revealed to me the heartache and passion of real life, moments that capture the value of traveling.
City In the Clouds (Runner-up)
Jackson Cadger, BCom 2023
Machu Picchu, Peru
When my plane touched down in Lima I was filled with excitement, elation, and apprehension. As I stepped into the South American city I was wholly unaware of my experiences to come. My first time leaving Canada was much more foreign than I possibly imagined and significantly more welcoming than foretold. I met many people with whom my friends and I assumed we wouldn't have much in common. Despite the language barriers, this trip showed us the beauty of people and cultures half a world away and allowed us to learn from and relate to our unexpected new friends.
Vida después de la muerte
Jennifer Fernandez, BCom 2023
San Luis Potosí, Mexico
Studying or having experience outside of Canada helps you to develop a more complete understanding of the multiculturalism that exists today. As a Mexican student, I can confirm that having an international experience generates a feeling of reflection and self-knowledge that you could not get in any other way. This photo represents something that in my culture we revere too much, which is tradition, from the Day of the Dead to the typical dishes of each state on certain dates. Visiting other countries provides tools for the professional life you are already preparing for; not taking the opportunity is denying yourself knowledge and emotional maturity.
Look Up and There Must Be a Way Out
Kin Lo (Vincent), MBA 2024
Yick Cheong Building, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
Canada is a good place for people to live and study, with a bigger land and a slower pace. Alternatively, Hong Kong is a more oppressive place, with not only the tense work rhythm but also the stress from living. The photo is taken in Quarry Bay with a building famously known as the “Monster building.” It seems to squeeze every living space. However, no matter how much stress or challenges we may face, just look up and think out of the box when we feel depressed. There must be a way out.
East or west, Guilin landscape is best
Lingyi Hao, MBA 2024
Yangshuo, Guilin, China
Drove to Yangshuo in the summer of 2022. Hills hauled up in various shapes on the plain land; Water in the Lijiang River is as clear as a mirror. After a six-hour-long journey, I finally reached one of the tops of the mountains. In the distance, the mountain peaks are winding, white clouds are curling around, the fields are crisscrossed, and the rivers like ribbons are rippling with green water, which gives people infinite reverie. Climbing is like our life—can be both a sport and a goal. Only by making a steady pace can you enjoy the magnificent sights along the journey!
El Niño Y El Gatito (Runner-up)
Lucille Galdamez, BCom 2023
Cusco, Peru
I met this little boy one afternoon while wandering the quiet streets of a small town in Cusco, Peru. He was curious to know who I was, so I said hello, captured his photo and we continued to be in each other's presence for a minute longer. While working in this town, I was fortunate to meet the Quecha people and learn of their rich culture, history, language, and cuisine. I discovered the importance of immersing oneself in culture as it teaches us to expand our worldview in becoming more aware of the beautiful lives others live.