By Dan Walsh
Wexford County Council’s Local Authority Integration Team has announced the winners of the Refugee Week 2024 Photography Competition themed Our Home, which received numerous inspiring and poignant submissions that beautifully captured the essence of what home means, particularly through the experiences of refugees and their supporters.
The competition judges were deeply moved by the diversity and depth of the entries, each one telling a unique and heartfelt story. The winning photographs stood out for their emotional resonance, creativity, and powerful narratives.
Amanda Byrne, Acting Director of Service, Ukraine Response, Human Resources and Corporate Affairs, Wexford County Council told WexfordLocal.com; “The photographs capture the spirit of Refugee Week, highlighting the importance of home and the resilience of those who have had to rebuild theirs and we extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants for their thoughtful and compelling entries, and to our judges for their dedication and insight. This competition has underscored the power of photography to convey profound messages and foster understanding and empathy within our community.
“Refugee Week is an annual event dedicated to celebrating the contributions, creativity, and resilience of refugees around the world. It provides a platform for displaced individuals to share their stories and for communities to show their support and solidarity,” added Ms. Byrne.
Prizewinners were; 1st Prize: Winner: Sasha Bratkova Title of Photograph: “Tea Time” Description: Whatever happens there’s always a time for cup of tea. “This flask reminds me the same, which I left in my cupboard in Kharkiv. The flavour of mint, thyme, honey, sea buckthorn and lemon bring me to my previous life, bring me back to home,” said Ms. Batoka.
2nd Prize; Winner: Artem Vartanyan. Title of Photograph: “Cleaning my Garden” Description: “I am 71 years old, I am from Ukraine, from the Donetsk region, Bakhmut. In this photo, I am cleaning the garden, unfortunately, my house was destroyed by a rocket, and I only have a few pictures of my house left. Now all I have left are the memories of my home. This is the perfect place for me!
3rd Prize: Winner: Ganna Akhundova. Title of Photograph: “Routine” Description: I’ve moved from place to place several times in Ireland. In each place I’ve lived, I’ve always used common cutlery. There was no need for my own plate or cup. Even at work, we had corporate mugs with logos. I remember strolling through a charity shop with a friend while she was looking for a plant pot. Then I caught myself thinking that I have no need for any things like that. They wouldn’t fit into my small suitcase. Now, I have my own plants in pots, my own cups, and many other things that won’t fit into a suitcase,”
The winning photographs on display at the Wexford Town Library until June 30th.
WexfordLocal.com 