Smartphone photography competition offers Riverina youth a chance to show ‘unique stories’ via The Personnel Group

The Personnel Group employment agency launched the competition on Wednesday. 

People aged 15 to 21 will be able to submit their photos for a chance at a $250 people’s choice prize or a $500, $300 or $200 prize from a judging panel.

Personnel Group program co-ordinator Chelsea Fraser said the competition was a chance for the region’s youth to cast off preconceptions.

“What we are wanting is what makes people unique: their stories, their talents, their interests and anything that makes them who they are or what they care about,” she said.

“If they’re passionate about a social issue, we want to know about it.

“If they’re an artist or a pro skater, we want to know.”

Entries to the competition will also be used in a public exhibition to go on show in Wagga early next year.   

The competition closes on January 4 and has been supported by the federal government.

“It’s been a brainchild for two years so so it’s really great to see it come to fruition,” she said.

“We chose to start with (a smartphone photography competition) because it’s accessible to young people; most young people own a smartphone or know someone who does.

“We also wanted something that was accessible to people across the community, not just the clients we deal with on a daily basis.

“We are encouraging everyone to get in involved; it’s not limited except for the age range.” 

Entries and votes for the people’s choice winner can be made online via www.shiningalightonme.com.au.