Iraqi photographer Hasanein Al-Shershahi has won the bronze medal in the Water Transport category at the International Photography Olympiad (Photo Olympic 2025), held in the Russian Federation. His award-winning photograph, titled “Qarib” (Arabic for boat), earned international recognition and brought honor to the Republic of Iraq.

In a statement to Karbala Now News Agency, Al-Shershahi said, “I won the bronze medal in the Water Transport category for my photographic work titled Qarib at the conclusion of the International Photography Olympiad 2025 in Russia. This is a new global achievement added to my photographic journey.”

The competition attracted over 1,600 photographers from 93 countries, progressing through three qualifying rounds held between January and May 2025. Ultimately, 96 finalists from 33 countries advanced to the final stage of the contest.

Al-Shershahi noted that the judging process was overseen by a panel of 50 international judges representing 25 countries, who evaluated entries at every stage, from preliminaries to the finals.

He concluded, “This victory represents the culmination of my ongoing dedication to artistic photography. It is a source of personal pride and a tribute to Iraq, as well as to the broader Arab and Iraqi photography communities. I emphasize the importance of Iraq’s active presence in international cultural forums.”

Emad Bao