RDP ABROAD 2026 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL PHOTO CONTEST
WINNING PHOTOS
International Tradition/Culture Category WINNER – “ The Arrieros of Rainbow Mountain” Photographer: McKenna Heck, Student, Open Studies Location: Rainbow Mountain, Peru Description: Before hiking up to Rainbow Mountain you will find Arrieros (local handlers), who will take you up to Rainbow Mountain on there horses for 80-100 Sol. Many will pay the price due to the high altitude (5,036m above sea level) making the hike difficult. These local handlers live in the small community surrounding the base of Rainbow Mountain, taking tourists up and down the trail throughout the day.
International Tradition/Culture Category Runner-up – “The Duty of the Guards”
Photographer: Raigne Symes, Faculty, School of Health and Wellness Location: Seoul, South Korea
Description: Royal guard changing ceremony at the Gyeongbokgung Palace.
International Nature/Landscape Category WINNER – “Carved in Time” Photographer: Silynn Poirier, Student, Bachelor of Kinesiology UT Location: Fjaðrárgljúfur, Iceland
Description: A glimpse into Iceland’s untouched wilderness, where moss-covered cliffs rise around a rushing river. Creating a landscape shaped by nature and time.
International Nature/Landscape Category Runner-up – “Svartifoss” Photographer: Ryan Bulter, Faculty, School of Trades and Technology Location: Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Description: A waterfall in Iceland featuring hexagonal basalt columns formed originally from quickly-cooled lava.
International City View/Life Category WINNER – “Everyday Paris” Photographer: Chantal Kukura, Administrative Officer - Academic, School of Health and Wellness Location: Paris, France Description: Walking the streets of Paris with no destination in mind, rain soaked and unhurried. An iconic landmark framed by fog and the quiet of everyday life.
International City View/Life Category Runner-Up – “A Vibrant Bazaar Photographer: Areigha Hoetmer, Student, Bachelor of Science - Biological Science Location: Jaisalmer, India Description: A vibrant bazaar comes alive in the heart of Jaisalmer, where golden sandstone buildings create a warm backdrop for the rhythm of everyday life. Colourful canopies stretch overhead as local vendors line the lively streets, surrounded by the movement and energy of shoppers and passersby. This scene captures the unique character of Jaisalmer—a place where historic architecture, local commerce, and everyday moments come together in a vivid display of life and culture.