Honorable Mention
With so many great entries submitted to the 2025/2026 Alberta School of Business International Photo Contest, we want to showcase some of the judging panel's other favourites. We feel these photos really captured the spirit of the contest and it would be a shame not to share these with the rest of the world. Congratulations to all those chosen for Honorable Mention and thank you for contributing to the international atmosphere at the Alberta School of Business.
Gordy, The Highland Coo
Maya McCaffery, BCom 2026
Edinburgh, Scotland
Studying in Edinburgh has opened my eyes in the best way. Living in a new country has pushed me to be more independent and open-minded. Meeting people from all over the world and exploring Scotland’s culture has helped me see things from new angles. Being outside of Canada has shown me how much you can grow when you step out of your comfort zone, and it’s made the whole experience unforgettable.
Bastille Day in Paris
Ben Cretain, MBA 2026
Paris, France
Travelling is one of my favourite things to do because it allows me to explore new places and meet people from different cultures, learning about their food, traditions, and ways of life. This summer, I was fortunate to complete a study-abroad exchange in Paris, which let me learn through my MBA while experiencing daily life in the city. One unforgettable moment was being there for Bastille Day, celebrated with a spectacular military parade down the Champs-Élysées, which is where this photo was taken.
Echoes of Culture on the Edge of the World
Riya Goyal, BCom 2027
Uluwatu,Bali
Traveling to Bali let me experience the beauty of nature and culture beyond my comfort's borders. Standing on the cliffs overlooking the ocean, with a traditional Balinese dance echoing in the distance, made me realize how important it is to adopt different perspectives. Being exposed to new landscapes and traditions has heightened my sense of cultural heritage and made me realize that everything in our world is connected. This journey reminded me that learning occurs everywhere-through people, places, and stories-and it inspires me to seek more opportunities to grow globally.
Through the Red
Severino Oliveros, BCom 2026
Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan
What began as a summer break from life’s everyday hustle gradually turned into an experience where the smaller moments started to stand out. Travelling placed me in cultures different from what I knew at home, an opportunity to appreciate the atmosphere and pace that make cultures feel distinct. Being there in the moment let me shift the way I viewed myself and the world around me. A reminder that growth comes through the unfamiliar moments we allow ourselves to step into.
A Witness to Chennai's Dawn
Etienne Bibaud, BCom 2026
Chennai, India
This photo was taken before sunrise while I was volunteering in India through a university program. The experience broadened my perspective on Indian culture and sparked a lasting interest in exploring more of the world.
Traversing Switzerland's Gotthard Pass
Ben Adema, BCom 2029
Gotthard Pass, Switzerland
In 2022, I had the amazing experience of driving the Gotthard Pass with my family. Living in Canada, I often admire the advanced infrastructure we have as a developed country. However, this was put to shame during my visit to Switzerland. The country has achieved remarkable feats of engineering while still preserving the beauty of its natural landscape. Seeing this made me realize how much more is possible. Switzerland shows that a nation can continue to develop without sacrificing the environment, and I believe Canada can follow this example as it works to protect its own unique and beautiful landscape.
Little White House
Ben Gaudet, BCom 2026
Glencoe, Scottish Highlands
Studying abroad in Edinburgh has created a love of travel within me. Living in a new culture has pushed me outside my comfort zone, providing valuable experiences I can draw on in the future. Exploring Scotland’s history, landscapes, and communities has helped me appreciate the value of experiencing the world beyond Canada. I have met countless incredible people who have shared their stories and lives with me. The experience will pay dividends for the rest of my life.
Pavilion Glow
Michael Mah, BCom 2029
Guangzhou, China
As I was exploring the busy streets of Guangzhou, I stumbled across this pavilion and its rich amber lighting. The picture captures the soul of the city at night, where tradition glows softly through the branches.
Bali's Enchantment
Ninell Dolores, BCom 2026
Ubud, Bali
A personal favorite. Wandering through Bali’s rice fields and seeing this lovely lady in her daily routine, surrounded by the green landscape I love, felt like a sacred and enchanting moment. It was a scene I had been dreaming about ever since landing in Bali. A reminder that travel gifts us these quiet, unplanned encounters — the ones that stay with us long after we return home.