Each era presents its own unique challenges and opportunities, and young people’s perspectives are often very insightful, reflecting both their understanding of the present and their vision for the future. Through their lenses, we not only capture fleeting moments of the present but also get a glimpse into the spirit of their times, evolving cultural dynamics, and the pulse of society. By viewing the world through young eyes, we illuminate a generation’s aspirations and challenges, creating a lasting testament to our era for those who follow. The Witnessing the Present – International Youth Photography Competition welcomes remarkable photograph submissions from middle school and university students worldwide. Let the world discover the stories of our era through the eyes of youth.
Building on the collaborative spirit that launched the Next Generation Philanthropy Leadership Scholarship Program, Singapore Good Soil Foundation and Inter Art Center/Gallery in Beijing have co-organized this photography competition to showcase the world as seen by our youth. Adopting the theme “Witnessing the Present”, the photography competition aims to encourage middle school to university students around the world (ages 15–22) to use the art of photography to showcase how today’s young people observe the world around them and aspire, dream, reflect, and struggle for the future.
Applicants can be from any nationality, and they must be aged 15 to 22.
1st Place: $4000 cash prize
2nd Place: $2000 cash prize
3rd Place: $1000 cash prize
Hear from Zack Cao, co-founder of the Next Generation Philanthropy Leadership Program, as he reveals the motivation behind the “Witnessing The Present” Global Youth Photography Competition and the impact it hopes to create
In its inaugural edition, the Witnessing the Present Global Youth Photography Competition welcomed submissions students aged 15–22 from across the world including China, India, Malaysia, Singapore, France, and the United States. Their submissions captured not only fleeting moments of life but also the deeper aspirations, reflections, and challenges of a new generation. With the youngest participant just 15 years old, the competition demonstrated the extraordinary talent and maturity of today’s youth.
At the opening of the ceremony, one of the initiators, Mr. Na Risong, Artistic Director and Curator of Inter Art Center & Gallery, spoke about the original intention behind launching the competition, emphasizing the importance of providing a platform for young photography enthusiasts worldwide. This was followed by speeches from co-initiators Ms. Faye Lo (Founder of the Singapore Good Soil Foundation and photography collector) and Project Co-initiator Mr. Zack Cao who both expressed their expectations for youth to express themselves through photography and the Foundation’s commitment to supporting young people’s artistic development.
A distinguished international panel of artists, curators, and educators lent their expertise in selecting the winners:
After rigorous evaluation by the jury, the following young photographers were honored with the competition’s top awards:
From hundreds of global submissions and multiple rounds of review, 30 remarkable young photographers were shortlisted for their originality, depth, and artistic expression:
Chen Beiting, Chen Hongmin, Chen Yumeng, Chen Sitong, Chen Sihua, Cao Xuan, Chi Yuchen, Feng Zhiyu, Dou Qianqian, Du Yingxin, Huang Hancong, Lin Tingyu, Huang Anni, Li Yuxiang, Liu Weihao, Qin Lei, Qu Shizhe, Tan Jingqiu, Wang Xinming, Xian Zhengyang, Zeng Jie, Zeri Cuo, Zhao Yi, Zhang Chenxi, Zhang Jun, Zhu Wendi, Zuo Zongyu, Zuo Chenghan, Bryan Tan (Singapore), Estovan (Singapore), Khoo Ze Yang (Malaysia).
The competition’s conclusion marked not only the recognition of exceptional youth talent but also the beginning of a movement inspiring young people worldwide to pick up the camera, tell their stories, and shape the narrative of our time. Through their vision, the world witnesses the present, and the future yet to come.
An exhibition of the winning and shortlisted works is scheduled to be held at the end of the year, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience the creativity and vision of this remarkable generation.
Click below to see the highlights from the Photography Competition Award Ceremony and celebrate the creativity of young talents.
For any queries, please reach out to : contact@goodsoilfoundationsg.com
Founded in April 2006 and located in 798 Art Zone, Beijing, Inter Art Center & Gallery is one of the most important professional institutions dedicated to photography in China. The current venue houses a gallery space, an editorial studio, an image workshop, and the Pixel Bookstore.
