Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads Photo Contest 2025: Submit Your Photos Now

Submission Deadline: July 20, 2025

Young photographers around the world are invited to participate in the 7th edition of the Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads International Photo Contest, organized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This global contest encourages youth aged 14 to 25 to showcase their creativity by capturing the vibrant and diverse heritage of the Silk Roads, with a special spotlight this year on women as cultural guardians.

This annual photo contest forms part of UNESCO’s Silk Roads Programme under the Social and Human Sciences Sector. It celebrates cultural dialogue, promotes peace, and fosters mutual understanding among the regions once connected by the historic Silk Roads.

Theme for 2025: Women, Guardians of Silk Roads Heritage

This year’s theme invites participants to document and honor the essential roles of women in preserving and transmitting the rich cultural heritage of Silk Roads societies. From artisans and storytellers to educators and scientists, women have long been at the heart of cultural preservation.

Participants are encouraged to focus on the following areas:

Women engaging in traditional crafts such as weaving, embroidery, ceramics, or pottery
Cultural games and sports practiced or passed on by women
Performances by women in music, dance, or oral storytelling
Culinary traditions and food knowledge transmitted by women
Women as intellectual and creative contributors: writers, artists, merchants, or scientists
Community celebrations or gatherings led by women
Authentic portraits of women reflecting their cultural identity, knowledge, and resilience

Awards and Recognition

Winning entries will receive the following prizes:

1st Prize: A professional DSLR camera with an 18–55mm lens
2nd Prize: A semi-professional digital camera
3rd Prize: A standard digital camera

Winners will gain global visibility through UNESCO platforms, and their work may be featured in future exhibitions or publications related to the Silk Roads heritage.

Who Can Participate?

The contest is open to individuals aged 14 to 25 years from all countries, with the exception of employees of UNESCO and its partner organization, China World Peace Foundation, and their immediate family members.

Participants will be grouped into two categories:

14 to 17 years old
18 to 25 years old

Important Note: Minors must have written consent from a parent or legal guardian to participate.

How to Submit Your Entry

To join the competition, participants must submit their entries online via the Participation Page. Here are the key submission guidelines:

Upload up to 20 original photographs (JPEG or JPG format)
Images must be minimum 1,500 pixels wide (horizontal) or 1,500 pixels tall (vertical)
Each photo must be accompanied by a brief caption
Entries must be submitted by the participant only—no third-party entries will be accepted
Access to the internet is required for participation
By submitting, you agree to the contest’s terms and conditions

Entries will be judged on creativity, photographic quality, originality, and relevance to the theme. The decision of the selection committee is fnal, and no appeals will be entertained.

Deadline

All entries must be submitted by July 20, 2025. Early submissions are encouraged to ensure timely participation and eligibility.

Why This Contest Matters

The Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads Photo Contest is more than just a photography challenge—it’s an opportunity for young creatives to build cross-cultural connections and contribute to global storytelling. This initiative aligns with UNESCO’s mission to promote dialogue and peace through cultural exchange.

Ready to Share Your Vision?

Celebrate the heritage of the Silk Roads through your lens and shine a spotlight on the women who continue to shape its legacy. Submit your best work and become part of a global movement championing diversity, tradition, and innovation.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE