HEROES Inclusive Photo Competition (2026-2027)

The HEROES Inclusive Photo Competition is an alliance‑wide initiative designed to highlight the diverse experiences, perspectives, and identities that shape student life across Europe. As part of our commitment to fostering an open, connected, and inclusive academic community, we invite students from all HEROES partner universities to submit original photographs that reflect themes of inclusion, belonging, accessibility, cultural exchange, and the shared spirit of European collaboration.

This competition offers students a platform to express their creativity, document meaningful moments, and contribute to a collective visual narrative that represents the values of the HEROES European University Alliance. Submissions may explore a wide range of interpretations, from everyday campus life to international mobility experiences, from personal reflections to broader social contexts.

Selected entries will be featured in the HEROES Online Gallery, shared across partner institutions, and showcased during the 2027 HEROES International Exhibition, where the most impactful works will be presented to a wider academic and public audience. In recognition of their contribution, winning students will receive HEROES prizes and visibility across the alliance’s communication channels.

Through this initiative, HEROES aims to strengthen student engagement, celebrate diversity, and promote a more inclusive European learning environment. We encourage all students, regardless of background, study field, nationality, or mobility status, to participate and share their unique perspectives.

If you are ready to take part, explore the competition rules below and submit your work during the official submission period.

Event rules/regulations:

Eligibility

• Open to all students enrolled at any HEROES partner university.
• Students of all nationalities, backgrounds, and study fields may participate.
• Photos must be taken by the student submitting them.

Submission Requirements

• Each participant may submit one original photo.
• Photos must relate to inclusion, diversity, belonging, accessibility, or European student life.
• Images may be taken with any device (camera, phone, tablet).
• Basic editing is allowed, but AI‑generated images are not permitted.
• Alternative submission formats are available for students with accessibility needs.

Submission Period

• The competition is open from 1^st of September 2026 – 31^st of January 2027.
• Late submissions cannot be accepted.

Format & Quality

• High‑resolution images are recommended.
• Files should be submitted in JPG or PNG format.
• Each photo must include a short caption or description.

Selection & Evaluation

• A HEROES jury will evaluate submissions based on:
  • Relevance to the theme
  • Creativity and originality
  • Visual impact
  • Inclusivity and representation
• Finalists will be contacted via email.

• Jury evaluation:1^st of February – 14^th of February 2027

 Prizes & Recognition

• Winners receive HEROES prizes.
• Selected photos will appear in the HEROES Online Gallery.
• Winning works will be showcased at the 2027 HEROES International Exhibition.

• Winners announced:15 February 2027

Copyright & Usage Rights

• Students retain full copyright to their photos.
• By submitting, participants grant HEROES permission to use the images for non‑commercial educational and promotional purposes (website, social media, exhibitions).
• Photos will always be credited to the student photographer.

Liability

• Participants are responsible for obtaining consent from any identifiable individuals in their photos.
• HEROES is not liable for submissions that violate privacy or copyright rules.