The Global Water Sustainability Centre (GWSC) in collaboration with the Water Engineering and Management program at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) organized a special event to mark World Water Day 2024. The event followed the theme “Water for Peace” and featured a vibrant photo exhibition that captured the theme through the lens of the AIT community members. A total of 21 photographs were submitted by members of the AIT community, showcasing diverse perspectives on water. The exhibition attracted a large audience and sparked interesting conversations about the importance of water for peacebuilding and sustainable development.
In recognition of their winning entries, the GWSC Co-Directors presented certificates to the photo contest champions.
FIRST WINNER
“Simple pump, big smiles”, by Marylene S. Eder.
Photo Description:
In my hometown (Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental), a mother and child find joy in a simple act – fetching water from a manual pump. Despite facing hardships, their community finds peace in shared resources like clean water. Through their struggles, their bond strengthens with each drop, reminding us of the resilience found in unity and the beauty of life’s simplest blessings. The child’s smile reminds us that even the smallest contribution brings happiness. Water sustains life, and sharing it fosters peace.
SECOND WINNER
“Water’s Promise: Sustaining livelihoods, fostering peace”, by Tungish Uprety.
Photo Description:
In the early morning mist, two women stand poised on the banks of the Kadha river, their reflection dancing on the calm surface. With deft hands, they cast their nets, their livelihood intertwined with the ebb and flow of the water. Their faces hold a quiet determination, a resilience born from generations of dependence on the river’s bounty. As the tributary winds its way to join the mighty Transboundary Karnali River, their actions speak of a deeper connection – a bond between communities, nations, and nature itself. In their simple act of fishing, they embody the spirit of Water for Peace, weaving threads of sustenance and harmony along the river’s course.
THIRD WINNER
“Ancient pond reflecting communities peace and harmony”, by Rabina Twayana.
Photo Description:
Nestled in the heart of Patan, Nepal since the 14th century, Pimbahal pond serves as a tranquil oasis, reflecting the essence of community peace and harmony. Its shimmering surface mirrors the vibrant mosaic of diverse architecture surrounding it, and echoing the laughter of children playing and people wandering. Amidst the serene ambiance, the pond has long been a gathering place for locals, fostering bonds of friendship and unity across generations. As ripples dance upon its surface, Pimbahal pond stands as an enduring evidence of communal tranquility.
“Mountain majesty lapping river serenity” – where peace flows endlessly, by Ashok Bhandari.
Photo Description:
While traveling through the remote Gaurishankhar region of Nepal, where there’s no infrastructure or not even the phone signal, we saw rivers forming. Surrounded by peaceful mountains, on a calm morning, I realized how these streams start small and quiet. It made me think that peace is like their birthplace, just like ours. Looking to those huge mountains, the streams they make are gentle. These rivers are clean and pure, showing us how peaceful our beginnings can be. It’s a reminder that inside us, too, there’s a calmness we can always return to.
“A reservoir of peace: Rainwater harvesting for sustainable futures”, by Asmita Bhattarai.
Photo Description:
This photo was taken in June 2020, in Hemja near Pokhara, Nepal. In Hemja, water scarcity led to conflicts among villagers due to irregular water supply. Not all houses had taps, exacerbating the issue. Villagers relied on community taps, causing confilt over limited access. However, the image showcased an old house in Hemja with a rainwater harvesting system. Bamboo collectors on the roof directed rainwater into overhead drums, ensuring each household had access to water stored in smaller drums. This innovative solution transformed conflict into cooperation, highlighting the significance of rainwater in fostering community harmony in Pokhara.
“Water: A Welcome Drink for my Feathered Friend”, by Ashta Paudel.
Photo Description:
Sparrows, our close friends in the sky, often visit my balcony where they’ve made a nest. I keep a transparent platter filled with water there to help them stay hydrated in this hot summer. This photo captures one of those moments when a sparrow came to drink from the platter. As humans, it’s our duty to ensure that the plants and animals around us are well taken care of. By doing so, we not only nourish them but also contribute to the peace and harmony of our environment with just a few little efforts.
“The Myitnge River: A Lifeline for The Local Community”, by Aye Khaing Mon.
Photo Description:
The Myitnge River serves as a major tributary to the Ayeyarwady River and enriches the surrounding area with its abundant resources. Not only does it provide essential drinking water for local communities, but it also offers valuable ecosystem services. Despite facing the challenges of climate change, the river remains steadfast in its support of the local population, showcasing its resilience and unwavering commitment to community well-being.
“A Fisherman’s Quest for Hope and Harmony”, by Hilson Ghimire.
Photo Description:
In the rugged mountains of Nepal, a fisherman stands by the river’s edge, his weathered hands poised as his net hovers mid-air, ready to descend into rushing waters. His eyes reflect a quiet determination as he prepares for his daily quest for sustenance. Capturing resilience and hope in adversity, his actions speak of unwavering commitment to provide food. The river, framed by majestic mountains, symbolizes not just a source of livelihood but a sanctuary of peace. Clean, flowing waters represent the preciousness of water—an essential element for life, nourishing bodies and souls, fostering a sense of harmony and well-being.
“Discovering Renewable Horizons: Sunset Glow on Floating Solar Panels”, by Maricel Eneria.
Photo Description:
Travel was restricted during the pandemic. That day, my husband and I visited my hometown to see my family. We dropped by the lake to watch the sunset. I took the photo using my phone since I had never seen floating solar panels before and the sunset was breathtaking. According to the history I looked up, it was a trial project to install solar panels on the lake as a way for the community to use renewable energy source and save electricity and money. It was installed in late 2020.
“A Good Hope for Life”, by Md. Bakebillah.
Photo Description:
Sundarban is one of the largest mangroves in the world. Due to sea level rise and effects of climate change floods are regular phenomena in the coastal area of Satkhira, Bangladesh. In 2021, during the rainy season, the area flooded and destroyed the paddy fields, fisheries, ponds and other crops. The photo is a symbol of peace while all are flooded a flower is bloomed. Could we say, that people are affected, they have sorrow and pain, but they try to live, and finally they win.
“Harmony Amidst Disappointment”, by Ms.Jutamas Taweesint.
Photo Description:
After my team faced a disappointing outcome at the international robot competition, we felt drained and disheartened. We aimlessly wandered until we stumbled upon a serene beach. The calm waters and stunning sunset eased our tensions, bringing us together in laughter and acceptance. I marveled at how clean and fresh water could affect our mood so profoundly. Reflecting on Singapore’s remarkable water management, where limited resources are maximized. Just as water can soothe conflicts, our shared experience taught us to overcome adversity with unity, turning setbacks into cherished memories of resilience and camaraderie.
“Waves of Resilience: A Woman’s Journey Towards Peace”, by Neha Dahal.
Photo Description:
During a family trip to Pokhara, I spotted a solo woman rowing her boat over the quiet river. I felt impelled to capture her pictures. The scene became an important metaphor for me, reflecting the numerous women around the world who work tirelessly and are determined to build their own lives. They seek for more rights, representation, and roles in society that were previously held by men. The woman’s journey on the lake is a reminder that these women are breaking down cultural barriers and fighting injustice.
“Erawan: Where Beauty Flows”, by Ochini Chandrasena.
Photo Description:
The Erawan Waterfall, located in the scenic Erawan National Park, is renowned for its stunning beauty and tranquility. Visitors are drawn to its multi-tiered cascades and vibrant ecosystem, highlighted by fish swimming in the clear pools. However, these fish are known for nibbling on dead skin cells, adding an unexpected twist to the experience. Despite this, the charm of Erawan’s blue waters and abundant fish makes it a special destination. The combination of natural beauty and unique encounters creates a memorable experience for visitors exploring this picturesque waterfall in the heart of nature.
“Sailing into tranquility: Satthahip Naval Base’s sunset enchantment”, by Permpun Plumsud.
Photo Description:
As the year drew to a close, we sought solace in the embrace of Satthahip Naval Base. With my cherished companion by my side, we reveled in the tranquility of the sunset-lit port, a respite from our year’s toil. Amidst the gentle whispers of waves, we found peace, a reward for our shared endeavors. The hues of dusk painted a canvas of serenity, echoing the calm that settled within our hearts. In this fleeting moment, amidst the year’s end, we discovered the profound beauty of simply being together, a testament to the enduring bond forged through trials and triumphs alike.
“A Quiet Wish by the Well”, by Rahul Kasaudhan.
Photo Description:
A woman kneels in prayer by a new well, her bright clothes standing out against the muddy ground. It’s World Water Day, and the theme is “Water for Peace.” The well, a beacon of sustenance, stands as a testament to the tireless efforts to secure water—a vital lifeline. Her prayer is a silent plea for unity, a wish for water to flow not just into homes, but into hearts, nurturing peace, and prosperity to the community in its purest form.
“Clean water in the palm of nature: Where peace resides”, by Renz Prudenciado.
Photo Description:
Peace blooms where water and plants intertwine, where humans can take inspiration to dismantle The Tragedy of the Commons—a concept where individuals, acting in their self-interest, deplete a shared resource leading to its deterioration or depletion, like water scarcity. Only through mindful stewardship can humans cultivate a harmonious existence, where the gentle flow of clean water nourishes not just our bodies, but also our souls, fostering a profound sense of peace and unity with the natural world.
“Ode to a Hopeful Journey!”, by Udipta Hazarika.
Photo Description:
This photo was taken in Majuli, which is located in the state of Assam, India. Majuli is the largest river island in the world and is located on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River. The extremes of climate change have gravely affected the river island, as irregular incidences of flooding have disrupted the livelihood of thousands of people who work in the ‘ferries’ to carry passengers from one end to another (captured image), where we can catch a glimpse of one of the last ferries before the sunset. This is a major economic lifeline for the people of Majuli and is under grave threat of being shattered by the affects of climate change. Despite all these challenges, this photo tries to capture the sheer capability and tenacity of the human mind to remain ever-hopeful and continue in the face of adversity, with the hope for a better future.
“Serene lake, global peace echoed in every wave”, Utkarsh Poudel.
Photo Description:
In Pokhara, a journey with friends led me to a high viewpoint, where I spotted a lone boat sailing. It sparked a thought: the boatman, amidst his life’s chaos, was in harmony with the lake’s silent music, a blend of wind and water. This scene, frozen in time, reflects Nepal’s timeless beauty and the daily dedication of its people to their livelihoods.
“Lost Opportunity flow with every raindrop left unharvested”, by Vinita Saluja.
Photo Description:
As I visited my parents in India after a long absence, I looked forward to catching up and relishing some quality time together. However, the joyous reunion was unexpectedly dampened by the arrival of the first rains. When the rain finally subsided, I ventured out to explore the neighborhood, only to encounter a disheartening sight. The roads were submerged under a sheet of rainwater. Together, we discussed the missed opportunity to harness the precious rainwater for beneficial use and importance of implementing rainwater harvesting techniques and advocating for better urban planning to prevent such occurrences in the future.
“Lost Opportunity flow with every raindrop left unharvested”, Zin Hsu Naing.
Photo Description:
As I visited my parents in India after a long absence, I looked forward to catching up and relishing some quality time together. However, the joyous reunion was unexpectedly dampened by the arrival of the first rains. When the rain finally subsided, I ventured out to explore the neighborhood, only to encounter a disheartening sight. The roads were submerged under a sheet of rainwater. Together, we discussed the missed opportunity to harness the precious rainwater for beneficial use and importance of implementing rainwater harvesting techniques and advocating for better urban planning to prevent such occurrences in the future.
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