A young Andover man, who spent three months volunteering on an international development project in Nepal, has been shortlisted in an international photography competition.
James Clark’s photo was chosen from over 300 entries globally, in a competition to capture the impact and experiences of volunteers around the world on the UK government-funded International Citizen Service (ICS) programme.
His photo depicts a young boy in Simaltar Ghantekhola, Nepal.
James Clark, 25, took the photo whilst volunteering in Nepal from April to June 2017 with international development organisation Raleigh. He worked with young local volunteers on a livelihoods project supporting people living in poverty.
James said: “This photo was taken on International Youth Day. The young boy was drawing a picture of what he hopes his village will look like in ten years’ time.”
The winning photos will be displayed at Pop Brixton, a community business and events space in London, from 20th November until 2nd December. The exhibition is sponsored by Wanderlust magazine and City Academy, and entry is free.
Since 2012, ICS has sent more than 15,000 young people from the UK to volunteer on projects abroad, alongside young volunteers from the country they’re in. Young people don’t need cash or qualifications to take part, just the motivation and commitment to make a difference.
Felicity Morgan, Director of ICS at VSO, said: “These photos invite you into the world of ICS volunteers. Volunteering overseas isn’t just about travelling and experiencing new cultures, it’s about making a real difference to the community you’re in.”
“By working on properly planned, long-term projects and living with local families, our volunteers are able to immerse themselves in a new way of living, as well as making a difference.”
To find out more about ICS or to apply, visit www.volunteerics.org.
