The event showcased the rich tapestry of experiences brought to Queen’s by its international student body.

A Vision in Words and Images

The exhibition was the culmination of a School-wide photo competition that invited international students to submit a single photograph accompanied by up to 250 words. “The goal was to capture a place that holds meaning—whether a memory from home, a moment of discovery, or a scene of peace and friendship”, event organiser Dr Michael Pierse said. “We were eager to do something small to showcase how much talent, vibrancy, and uniqueness that our international students bring to this university and the great city around it. They really rose to the occasion.”

Dr Pierse, in his opening address, praised the students’ “creativity, sensitivity, and vision,” noting how the submissions ranged “from city streets to quiet moments of reflection; from poems of belonging to snapshots of discovery.” He added:

“Each frame, each phrase, will stand as a long-term testament to the rich contributions our international students make—to the University, and to the city of Belfast that you have for a time called home.”

Honouring Artistic Excellence

The judging panel—comprising Dr Jane Lugea, Dr Kim-Marie Spence, Lauren Gallagher, and Dr Daniel Roberts—had the difficult task of selecting winners from a pool of outstanding entries. Speaking on behalf of the judges, Dr Lugea highlighted the diversity and depth of the submissions:

“It was amazing to see the different and creative ways our international students responded to this brief in their photographs and words. The exhibition here today reflects the diversity of our student body and breadth of experience within it, as well as some common themes.”

Dr Lugea noted recurring motifs such as the magical light of Belfast, the comforting familiarity of Botanic Gardens, and the emotional resonance of home—whether found in people, pets, or places.

And the Winners Are…

Dr Kurt Taroff, Head of School, presented the prizes to the top three entries:

• First Prize (£100 voucher): “Windowsill” by Morgan Gray – A thought-provoking domestic scene capturing the essence of international student life.
• Second Prize (£75 voucher): “After the Rain” by Lesley-Anne Evans – A stunning portrayal of light and architecture on Malone Road.
• Third Prize (£50 voucher): “This is Qatar” by Afra Mubarak – A breathtaking juxtaposition of natural and human-made structures in golden hues.

Well done all!

AEL Head of School Dr Kurt Taroff with (from left) Lesley-Anne Evans, Afra Mubarak and Morgan Gray.

A Collective Effort

The success of the exhibition was made possible by the collaborative efforts of AEL and Queen’s Gender Initiative staff. Dr Pierse extended heartfelt thanks to the School Education Committee and AEL Finance team, Queen’s Gender Initiative and the University’s Race Equality Charter for their financial support, and especially to Lauren Gallagher, Project Manager for the Race Equality Charter, whose behind-the-scenes work was “invaluable”.

A Lasting Legacy

The exhibition remains on display throughout May in the Main Site Tower, and thereafter it moves to the School of Arts, English and Languages, where the students’ work will take a permanent place on its walls. Dr Pierse closed with a wish that these images and words will continue to “inspire conversation, curiosity, and connection—for years to come.”

Student Submissions

Check out a selection of student submissions below. For the full exhibition, visit Junction throughout the whole month of May. 

Botanic Gardens, Belfast - Mackenzie Banas

Mossy Water Fall - Nathaniel Kammerer

Bubbles - Zenith Nguon

疯狂烧翅先生 / Mr. Crazy Wings - Audrey Eileen Kelly

You can also click here to view all of the submissions along with the students' accompanying words.

Some photos taken on the day, with big thanks to Queen's Social Media Officer Mark Rocks:

Lockdown - Michael Collins

This is Qatar - Afra Mubarak

After the Rain - Lesley-Anne Evans

I'm Mimi - Lu Li

Botanic Gardens, Belfast - Mackenzie Banas

Windowsill - Morgan Gray

Dr Michael Pierse delivers his welcome address

Find out more

School of Arts, English and Languages

International students at Queen's

Event organised by Dr Michael Pierse, School of Arts, English and Languages