As part of our celebrations on April 1, 2014 we also celebrated and recognized the photographic achievements of our students. Photographs evoke feelings, positive or negative, and shape our perceptions of people, places or events. Our students, faculty, residents, and staff often take photos during their global health experiences. Each photo, although representing just one moment in time, also speaks to a compelling story, a narrative of lessons learned, hope, inspiration and a continued struggle for equity at home and abroad.
The Global Health Office (with support from Dr. Lee Kirby and the Department of Bioethics as well as the many student reps from the Medical Humanities program) has been running a global health photo contest for a few years with the focus on promoting ethical imagery and creating awareness for how a single photo can impact both the subject and the viewer. Our photo contest is open to everyone; students, faculty, residents and staff and we are proud to showcase all the entries we receive. You will see these images, and may already recognize a few, in our promotional pieces such as posters, our website or even our social media such as this blog or our facebook page. As part of the global health photo contest, each submission is evaluated on the clarity of that relationship between the image and its intended global health message. It is clear that the Dalhousie community puts a lot of thought into the image composition and its message and we want to thank all our entrants who have given us both beautiful images and thoughtful stories!
We are also pleased to announce our 1st and 2nd prize winners for 2014!
2nd place goes to Kerry McInnes for the image entitled “My heart lies in Ireland”.
My Heart Lies in Ireland by Kerry McInnes
Here’s an excerpt from Kerry’s submission: ” I think this photo is appropriate for a global health theme because it challenges the societal image and connotations we have surrounding the elderly. Rather than eliciting sympathy and pity, this photo invites you to share in this beautiful woman’s joy as she explores a country she has dreamed of visiting her entire life. Rather than portraying old-age, illness, and disability, this photo captures her youth, her health, and her ability.”
1st place goes to Suzanne Clarke for her image “Now that I have seen”.
Now That I Have Seen by Suzanne Clarke
Here’s an excerpt from Suzanne’s submission: “If however, a health problem or general societal inequality is known and allowed to continue unaddressed ~ We do indeed become responsible. Improvements in global health can be made and I believe, are very achievable. First however, we must acknowledge them and accept responsibility for that knowledge.”
To see all 2014 submissions please visit the Global Health Office Facebook page.
