WINNERS

Hidden Heroes

  • Photographer
    Mehri Jamshidi, Iran
  • Prize
    Gold Winner in Photojournalism/Photo Essay

Amidst decades of conflict, Afghanistan has seldom experienced peace and harmony. Regardless of who holds authority, the country has endured devastating turmoil. From the international interventions to local battles, chaos prevailed until the Taliban’s mid-2021 takeover. Now, with the Taliban in control, the nation faces economic challenges, severe restrictions on female education, and numerous closed girls’ schools. In this photo story, we shed light on the resilience and determination of ordinary Afghan individuals, the unsung heroes of an unwarranted battle. Afghanistan 2021-2022