Yesterday the PES Group awarded prizes to the winners of the 11th edition of its annual photo competition. Under the theme "My social city", citizens from all over Europe were invited to send in a photograph capturing social projects and social relationships in their town and cities. A total of 868 photos were sent in for this year's edition of the competition.
"Our cities and regions are increasingly confronted with social inequalities. More than one European in five is at risk of poverty or lives in poverty. This is scandalous for a rich continent that is often considered to lead the way in social policy", said PES Group president Catiuscia Marini, president of Umbria region (Italy). "Our photo competition is intended to raise awareness of this and of the importance of values such as solidarity and inclusion. The three winning photographs clearly show that we can build social cities, not just with policies to reduce inequality but also through direct engagement of citizens who care about their communities and the future of the place where they live."
The first prize goes to Stefano Scagliarini from Milan, who wins a three-day trip for two to Brussels and photographic equipment worth €1500. Commenting on his photo, Stefano Scagliarini said: "I am happy that my photo with its protagonists, colours and composition has been appreciated and somehow managed to communicate on such a complex theme. I think it sends an important message of harmony and empathy between two people who have a strong bond despite their age difference. I hope that my photo transmits a positive vision of life through the smile of the old lady and the dance, and I also hope that their vitality is contagious".
The winners of this year's competition are:
1st prize: Stefano Scagliarini (Milan, Italy)
2nd prize: Krzysztof Story (Krakow, Poland)
3rd prize: Edina Klein (Budapest, Hungary)
Visit the page of the competition to learn more about the initiative and see the winning entries and photos of the award ceremony.
