International Photo Contest 2025/2026
The International Programs Office is proud to announce the winner of the tenth annual International Photo Contest at the Alberta School of Business.
GRAND PRIZE WINNER
Aurélie’s entry "Sunset Reflections" was chosen from among the 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, she will receive a $500 prize and have her photo added to the permanent display in the 4-16 conference room at the Alberta School of Business.
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.
This is the tenth year the International Programs Office has run the international photo contest, which aims to create an atmosphere of international connections at the School and promote exchanges and other program opportunities beyond the classroom. Thank you to everyone who entered, voted in and/or participated in the 2025/2026 Alberta School of Business International Photo Contest for making it a great success!
Be sure to also check out the Honorable Mention page for some of the judging panel's other favorite entries submitted in this year's contest. You might also want to explore available exchange program options through the Alberta School of Business to start planning your next adventure abroad.
If you should have any questions, comments or requests for information, please do not hesitate to contact us at business.international@ualberta.ca.
2025/2026 Finalists:
Pippi the Goat
Jacqueline Cowling, BCom 2026
Mount Fløyen, Norway
Pippi lives on Mount Fløyen in Bergen, Norway. It rains more than two-thirds of the year, so it took some good luck for the clouds to temporarily reveal some blue sky. Pippi was more than ecstatic to show off her balance ability and pose with Bergen as the backdrop. While travelling is often a learning opportunity, there are so many fun moments with new faces. Going on adventures can create lifelong memories and friendships, and now I can loosely say I am friends with a Norwegian goat.
Amidst the Towers [Runner-up]
Grace Edgecumbe, Bcom 2027
The Italian Alps (Dolomites)
The Dolomites were my personal favourite of all the places we travelled to. Being able to hike a mountain and have a bed and breakfast waiting for you at the top was such a unique aspect, and it was so interesting to compare and contrast the Canadian Rockies with the Alps. The people were so incredibly friendly, and the views were otherworldly. We met many people who were planning on visiting the Rockies, and were in awe that we lived so close to them. It opened our eyes on how lucky we are to call Canada our home as well!
Concealed [Runner-up]
Drake Gould, BCom 2026
Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Travel became a doorway into discomfort for me. A space where I had no choice but to adapt and keep an open mind. Meeting people all over the world and seeing how they think, live and interact with their surroundings, made me realize just how much there is to learn. If I stayed in the comfort of what I already knew, I would only hold myself hostage. Travel pushed me to face my fears and grow through the very discomfort I once avoided. Now when something scares me, I take it as a signal, not to run, but to challenge myself. A reason to do the very things I once would have talked myself out of.
Echoes of Ice
Martha Wendt, MBA 2026
Perito Moreno Glacier, Patagonia, Argentina
Watching the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina was a humbling reminder of the power and fragility of our planet. Every 30 minutes, a massive block of ancient ice broke off and plunged into the water, releasing air bubbles that had been trapped for thousands of years. Hearing the deep rumble and the bubbling melt beneath the surface was unforgettable. Traveling outside of Canada has shown me how precious these natural wonders are, and how important it is that we protect them for future generations.
A House by a Hill
Georgia Cripps, BCom 2029
Budakirkja, Iceland
I travelled to Iceland this summer, right before the school year began. Every location I visited felt isolated, remote, and beautiful. I spoke with many Icelanders during my trip, and I felt both inspired and connected by those conversations. I will never forget how, even as I was standing an ocean away from Canada, it did not feel all that different from home.
Morning Catch
Martha Wendt, MBA 2026
Victoria Lake, Uganda
Traveling has taught me that you don’t need to go far to gain new perspectives, stepping into any new place can open your eyes. My trip to Uganda showed me the beauty of everyday moments: after an early morning river safari near Lake Victoria (Uganda), I watched local fishermen return with their catch, helping and supporting one another. Studying and traveling abroad has shown me how much we can learn from different ways of living, and how these experiences shape us into more open-minded, empathetic people.
Sunset Reflections [Grand Prize Winner]
Aurelie Alexandre, BCom 2026
Amsterdam, Netherlands
This photo shows the amazing and interesting architecture of Amsterdam, with the houses built right on the canal, leaning slightly, tightly packed, and each with its own unique gable design. Every window has its own story, its own view of the beauty and uniqueness of Dutch culture. The sky’s colours paint a breathtaking background, turning this photo into the perfect painting of the landscape in Amsterdam.
Serenity in Slovenia
Camryn Jackson, BCom 2026
Lake Bled, Slovenia
My semester abroad in Vienna, Austria, was a pivotal experience that transformed how I see the world and myself. Immersing myself in a new culture challenged me, yet it also provided the perfect opportunity to form friendships with people from around the globe who helped me become the most confident version of myself. I left my comfort zone back in Edmonton with a mantra to be unafraid, bold, adventurous – I returned with a new perspective shaped by curiosity and cultural awareness. Not a day goes by where I do not think about this experience – looking back with awe and gratitude.
A Gentle Look
Martha Wendt, MBA 2026
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Encountering a silverback gorilla in Uganda was one of the most powerful experiences of my life. As he looked at us with calm curiosity, surrounded by his peaceful family and playful babies, I felt a deep sense of connection and humility. Traveling abroad has shown me how extraordinary the world’s wildlife is and how important it is to protect it. Moments like this remind me why exploring matters; it expands our understanding, inspires respect, and stays with us forever.