Deadline: September 15, 2025
Are you passionate about photography and storytelling? The UNESCO-UNEVOC Skills in Action Photo Competition 2025 is now open for submissions. This global contest invites youth photographers to showcase how technical and vocational education and training (TVET) is empowering young people in the digital era. With a strong focus on AI, digital skills, and inclusion, this year’s competition highlights the power of youth innovation in shaping the future.
About the UNESCO-UNEVOC Skills in Action Photo Competition 2025
The Skills in Action Photo Competition is an annual initiative by UNESCO-UNEVOC to celebrate and amplify the role of TVET in empowering young people worldwide. For the 2025 edition, the central theme is “Youth Empowerment through AI and Digital Skills”, encouraging participants to capture powerful images of young people using digital tools and technologies to thrive.
Thematic Areas
Participants are encouraged to align their photo submissions with the following thematic areas:
- AI and Digital Skills in TVET – Images of youth working with AI tools, coding, robotics, VR/AR, or digital simulations.
- Equity in Tech – Highlighting girls, youth with disabilities, or marginalised communities accessing digital training.
- Digital Solutions for a Green Future – Depicting young innovators building sustainable, tech-driven solutions through TVET.
- Digital Skills for Peace – Showcasing youth using AI and digital platforms through TVET for peacebuilding and resilience.
Who Can Apply?
- Open to anyone aged 18 years or older.
- Applicants must own the copyright to the submitted photos.
Submission Requirements
To ensure your entry is eligible, carefully follow these guidelines:
- Photo Quality: Minimum 3000 pixels on the longest side, 300 DPI/PPI. JPEG format is required, while RAW or TIFF files are preferred if available.
- Titles & Descriptions: Each photo must include a title and a short description of up to 75 words.
- Naming Convention: Rename your photo(s) as
Lastname-Firstname_title.jpeg(e.g.,Oyelowo-Eyitayo_Female-aircraft-engineers.jpeg). - Submission Form: Complete the official form and rename it as
Lastname-Firstname_SAPC20_SF.docx.
Do’s and Don’ts
What’s Allowed:
- Minor digital edits (must be disclosed).
- High-quality mobile phone entries.
- Consent forms for people featured in your photo (UNESCO consent form recommended).
What’s Not Allowed:
- AI-generated images.
- Photo collages (multiple images combined).
- Watermarks, logos, or overlays.
- Unrelated content outside the listed themes.
How to Submit Your Entry
- Attach your completed form and photo(s).
- Email them to unevoc.skills@unesco.org.
- Use the subject line:
Lastname_SAPhotoCompetition2025. - If files are too large, include a download link (e.g., via WeTransfer).
Deadline
All entries must be submitted by 15 September 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Prizes and Recognition
Winners will receive:
- 1st Prize – USD 750
- 2nd Prize – USD 500
- 3rd Prize – USD 350
Additionally, all winners and finalists will:
- Receive a certificate of recognition.
- Gain global visibility through UNESCO-UNEVOC’s website, social media, and campaigns.
- Have their work included in UNESCO-UNEVOC’s media library for promotional use.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Theme | Youth empowerment through AI & digital skills |
| Eligibility | 18+ years old; must own photo copyright |
| Photo Requirements | JPEG (3000 px, 300 DPI); RAW/TIFF preferred |
| Allowed | Consent, minor edits, quality mobile shots |
| Not Allowed | AI images, collages, logos, watermarks |
| Submission | Email form + photos to unevoc.skills@unesco.org |
| Deadline | 15 September 2025 |
| Prizes | $750 (1st), $500 (2nd), $350 (3rd) + certificates |
Final Thoughts
The UNESCO-UNEVOC Skills in Action Photo Competition 2025 is more than just a contest; it is a chance to use your creativity to highlight the incredible potential of youth in building a digital, inclusive, and sustainable future. If you are a passionate storyteller through photography, this competition is your platform to shine.
👉 Click here to apply
👉 Read more about the programme
For professional support with proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
