SEE Through Lenses: A Visionary Photography Contest Built on Storytelling, Sustainability, and Global Connection

Tell powerful visual stories about sustainability, heritage, and social justice.

“SEE Through Lenses” is a global photography competition hosted by SEE U.S., Foundations 20, The New York Academy of Sciences, and The Nelson Mandela Foundation. SEE Through Lenses is a global photography initiative founded on the belief that storytelling has the power to drive change in ecological conservation. SEE stands for Sustainability, Environment & Equity, encapsulating the contest’s focus on ecological balance and social justice. By working with renowned institutions like SEE U.S, F20, the New York Academy of Sciences, and the Nelson Mandela Foundation, SEE Through Lenses creates a platform where art meets advocacy. The competition is part of a broader effort to engage the public in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through visual storytelling, highlighting local solutions and personal narratives that resonate worldwide.

We’re inviting photographers from around the world to share powerful visual stories, amateurs and professionals alike—from around the world to submit compelling images that weave together sustainability, cultural resonance, and the power of visual storytelling.

A Global Contest with Purpose and Partnership

In alignment with core values of sustainability, ecological and social justice, and visual storytelling, the SEE Through Lenses competition is a collaborative initiative supported by five esteemed international institutions:

• Foundations 20 (F20) – a global alliance of philanthropic foundations dedicated to climate action and sustainable developmentfoundations-20.org. F20’s commitment to effective climate solutions and inclusive societies underscores the contest’s sustainability focus.
• The New York Academy of Sciences (NYAS) – a 200-year-old scientific society whose mission is to drive innovative solutions to society’s challenges through science, education, and policynyas.org. NYAS brings its emphasis on science for the public good to ensure the contest highlights scientific innovation and cultural resonance in visual storytelling.
• The Nelson Mandela Foundation (NMF) – a nonprofit organization embodying Nelson Mandela’s vision of freedom and equality for all, working to build a society that remembers its past and pursues social justice. The Foundation’s involvement infuses the competition with a deep respect for human rights, heritage, and social equity in line with Mandela’s legacy.
• SEE U.S – Society of Entrepreneurs and Ecology, Inc, is a global environmental non profit empowering change-makers through entrepreneurship, sustainability, and cross-cultural collaboration. We bridge business and ecology to drive impact, dialogue, and lasting solutions.

These institutional partners lend the competition unparalleled credibility and global reach. Their shared values – from climate sustainability to social justice – are woven into the contest’s ethos. Together, we champion a platform where photography becomes a force for awareness, dialogue, and change.

Esteemed Jury Panel

The judging panel for SEE Through Lenses reflects the competition’s high-profile, international character. The panel consists of distinguished leaders and experts from the realms of sustainability, science, and the arts, including:

• Katrin Harvey – Secretary General of Foundations Platform F20 (F20).
• Chenelle Bonavito Marinez – Vice President, New York Academy of Sciences (NYAS).
• Dr. Mbongiseni Buthelezi – Chief Executive Officer of the Nelson Mandela Foundation.
• Kyle Obermann– Renowned International Photographer and Visual Storyteller.
• Song Zhao – President, Society of Entrepreneurs and Ecology, Inc, SEE U.S

This eminent five-member jury reflects a breadth of expertise – from global policy and science to humanitarian activism and photographic arts. Their collective involvement signals the professional legitimacy of the contest. Each judge is a leader in their field, and their participation underscores SEE Through Lenses as a prestigious competition on the world stage.

Judging Criteria

Each submission is evaluated holistically—combining artistic excellence with meaningful impact:

• Storytelling: A compelling narrative that connects with emotion and clarity
• Sustainability: Relevance to environmental responsibility and equitable futures
• Cultural Resonance: Reflection of identity, memory, and heritage
• Public Impact: Potential to inform, provoke thought, or inspire action

These criteria guide our jury in selecting images that are not only visually striking but also resonate deeply and drive positive change.

Timeline and Climate Week NYC 2025 Finale

We believe photography is a powerful tool for social change. Whether you're showcasing climate action in rural communities or preserving indigenous traditions, your work can uplift voices and build global awareness. Winners will be announced during Climate Week NYC 2025, held along the 80^TH UN General Assembly, – provides a fitting global stage for announcing the winners.

Awards

• Impact Award: 3-day photography journey to Sanjiangyuan National Nature Reserve
• Visual Storytelling Award: Prize valued at $1,000 USD
• Emerging Photography Award: Prize valued at $800 USD

Winning entries will be showcased globally—including during Climate Week NYC 2025—and juried by an esteemed international panel spanning science, sustainability, and the arts.

Submission deadline: Sep 5, 2025: Submit up to 3 photos and accompanying stories

First Round of Screening and Selection: Early Sept: Top 30 finalists announced via our platform

Early Sep 2025: Jury conducts virtual evaluation and selects top 3 and honorable mentions

Sep 25, 2025: Winners revealed during Climate Week NYC, aligned with UN General Assembly