TEEN’S PHOTOS SHOWCASED AT WEF
THE prestigious work of South African Young Wildlife Photographer Skye Meaker, 16, has been showcased at the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland.
Skye has aspired to being a nature photographer since receiving his first camera in 2012.
In Davos, he spoke about his passion for wildlife, alongside renowned conservationist Dr Jane Goodall.
The forum took place at the Natural History Museum and focused on environmental impact and biodiversity loss in order to define and shape global, regional and industry agendas.
Skye was also the youngest participant in the forum’s programme of events, while the oldest was one of his heroes, 92-year-old Sir David Attenborough.
“To think that my dream of sharing my pictures with the world would not only come true by winning the Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year, but allow me to be the youngest speaker at the WEF Annual Meeting, is just truly mind-blowing and I am both honoured and grateful for the opportunity Wildlife Photographer of the Year has given me,” said Skye.
Clare Matterson, director of engagement at the Natural History Museum, said: “Inspiring and supporting young people is of paramount importance to the museum and this life-changing opportunity for Skye is a testament to the global impact of Wildlife Photographer of the Year on the nature photographers, naturalists and scientists of the future.”
The winning images from the 54th edition of the competition were presented as part of a large-scale projection installation, seen by global decision-makers during a four-day programme that focused heavily on the state of the planet, conservation and environmental sustainability.
The images were selected last year at an international competition by a panel of judges who reviewed more than 45 000 entries from 95 countries.
Sir Michael Dixon, director for the Natural History Museum, said: “The Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition and exhibition is not just a celebration of photography; it is a platform for the museum to convene a global conversation about the state of wildlife today.
“The cutting-edge digital display at the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting will put the work of passionate nature photographers and conservationists at the heart of international conversations, debate and action for the natural world.”
The installation also provided a powerful presence for the subjects of the photographs, including vulnerable ecosystems and species that are facing extinction.