Seychellois dive master chosen as judge for Pan-African regional photo contest

The 30-year-old Seychellois dive master and underwater photographer will be joined by judges chosen to decide on the winners of the contest. (Christopher Leon) 

(Seychelles News Agency) - Christopher Leon has been chosen as one of three judges for this year's The Nature Conservancy (TNC) Pan-African Regional Photo Contest.

The 30-year-old Seychellois dive master and underwater photographer will be joined by judges chosen to decide on the winners of the contest, where he is joined by Sarah Waiswa - a Ugandan based in Kenya and specialised in documentary and portrait photographer and  Roshni Lodhia - the lead judge hailing from Tanzania.

"For me, this is a momentous opportunity to amplify the importance of conservation, share my experiences, and inspire others to explore the mesmerising depths of our oceans through my lens," Leon told SNA.  

The competition, which was officially launched on August 30, is set to accept submissions up until September 29, with the winner to be announced during the first week of November.

Leon explained that this contest falls under The Nature Conservancy's Africa Programme, a reputable non-profit organisation dedicated to working towards a sustainable future for people and nature in Africa.

Leon began his journey into photography about five years ago. (Christopher Leon) Photo License: All Rights Reserved

"The photo contest aims to showcase the artistic talents of photographers while raising awareness about conservation," he added.

Leon, who began his journey into photography about five years ago, says that he wanted to unveil the hidden treasures beneath the waves of Seychelles, an archipelago in the western Indian Ocean.

He added that "as someone raised on a small island embraced by the vast ocean, it deeply saddens me to witness many Seychellois missing out on the breathtaking beauty beneath the surface."

With Seychelles considered to be one of the most beautiful places on earth, with a rich biodiversity, Leon believes there are opportunities for Seychellois photographers to flourish in nature photography.

Those from Seychelles who still wish to take part in the competition can do so by registering on the www.nature.org website.  

"This passion has not only been an incredible journey but has also taken me across the globe. It has not always been smooth sailing, but I firmly believe that unwavering dedication and commitment can overcome any challenge. I stand as living proof of this conviction," he added.

He wanted to unveil the hidden treasures beneath the waves of Seychelles. (Christopher Leon) Photo License: All Rights Reserved

The contest features several categories, including people and nature, plants and fungi, mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, and more, with a total of 37 prizes up for grabs.

There will be first, second and third prizes for each of the 12 categories and a prize for the overall winner of the contest.

The grand prize is a three-night stay at the Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp in Loisaba Conservancy, Kenya.