Witness
the Present

2026

Witness
the Present

International Youth Photography Competition

We invite young photographers worldwide to explore society, document overlooked stories, and present the world through their unique perspective. Through photography, we learn, we connect, and we inspire change.

Eligibility

Participants of all nationalities are welcome.
Applicants must be current middle school or university students, aged 15–22 years old.

Submission Period

The open call will officially commence on August 26, 2026, and close on November 26, 2026.

Awards

Selected winning works will be included in the official photography collection and featured in an exhibition.

Submission requirements

Photography Works

  • Each submission must consist of a thematic series of 1 to 5 photographs.
  • AI-generated images are not accepted.
  • The submission package must include:
    • Photographs (numbered sequentially if a specific order is intended);
    • Captions (short captions included in the image file name; extended captions compiled in a Word document);
    • A brief biography of the author (100–150 words).
  • Image files must be in .jpg format, with the shorter side no less than 1000 pixels.

Theme Statement

Participants must submit a structured written statement (recommended 250–600 words) in bilingual Chinese–English or English, to accompany your photography series. This statement should help audiences understand the context, story, and intention behind your work, and may include the following elements:

  • Series Title – The title of your photography series.
  • Core Concept – A brief description of the central idea and the social issue or phenomenon explored in your work.
  • Background & Story – The background, people, or events depicted in your photographs, and the real stories they capture.
  • Author’s Perspective – Your observations, feelings, or reflections during the creation of the work.
  • Message & Intention – The key message or ideas you wish to convey through your images.
  • Engagement & Call to Action – How your work aims to raise public awareness, inspire reflection, or encourage dialogue, motivating more people to engage with social issues.

Through visual storytelling, this program aims to bring greater visibility to social issues and the real stories behind them, inspiring public awareness and engagement in philanthropy and social causes. To help participants understand possible creative directions, the following themes are provided as examples for inspiration. Participants are also encouraged to explore and propose their own social issues and perspectives.

TitleVisual ExpressionSocial Issue
Light in the MarginsUse photography to capture the expressions, learning moments, and everyday growth of children in rural communities.Rural education and equal opportunities for youth
The Wrinkles of TimeCapture the traces of time on the elderly, such as hands, facial expressions, and small details of daily life.Elderly care and mental health
Healing EarthDocument changes in the natural environment, including ecological damage and restoration.Environmental protection and sustainable development

Submissions will not be returned. Selected works may be used by the organizer for exhibitions, publications, and other activities related to this competition.

Submission Method

Participants must submit all required materials before December 31, 2026.

All works must be original and must not have previously won awards in similar competitions.

Please send submissions to:

contact@goodsoilfoundationsg.com

Email subject line must follow this format: 

Witness the Present – Full Name – Contact Number