Manitoba's Jocelyne Hebert Shines Bright at World Photographic Cup

In a remarkable showcase of talent, Jocelyne Hebert from Oakbank, Manitoba, is gearing up to represent Team Canada in the prestigious World Photographic Cup, often dubbed the "Olympics of Photography." While Canada isn’t typically known for its football victories on a global stage, it is certainly making waves in the world of photography.

Hebert, the only participant from Manitoba, has a deeply personal connection to her chosen piece. “The portrait image I submitted holds a special place in my heart. It reflects the profound challenges of mental illness, particularly among our youth,” she shared, describing the significance of her work chosen in the Portrait Natural category.

As part of the competition's rules, the details and images of the finalists remain under wraps until December 10, when the top 10 finalists in each category are unveiled. This secretive approach has created a buzz among photography enthusiasts and adds an element of suspense leading up to the announcement.

This year's World Photographic Cup, set to take place in March 2025 in Ecuador, features a diverse array of categories, from sports and reportage to digital art and weddings. Canadian photographers will compete across all these categories, showcasing the nation's artistic talent.

The World Photographic Cup is not just about individual achievements; it also awards medals—gold, silver, and bronze—while the overall champion is crowned the national team with the highest combined score. Interestingly, despite the competitive edge, the event fosters a spirit of camaraderie, affectionately termed "camera-derie," and has been free of any reports of unruly behavior seen in various sporting events.

To date, Canada has yet to clinch the coveted World Photographic Cup, but Hebert sees her selection as a tremendous honor, regardless of the final outcome. Approaching her 50th birthday next year, Hebert, who teaches photography at Red River College, expresses immense pride in her achievement: “This recognition has brought me tremendous joy. It serves as a powerful reminder that we must continuously push our creative limits and pursue our passions, regardless of age.”

As the countdown to the competition begins, Hebert’s journey resonates as an inspiration for many aspiring photographers. Can she break the barrier for Canada and bring home a win? The world will soon find out!