Behind my Notebook by Ryszard Wierzbicki

Captured in the remote Lawa Village of Northern Thailand during an English camp, this poignant portrait documents a moment of quiet connection. The photographer observed a group of shy, modest children deeply engaged in their studies, eventually focusing on a young girl who sought refuge behind her notebook. This image is award-worthy for its delicate balance of vulnerability and composition, capturing the essence of childhood innocence amidst the cross-cultural exchange of the volunteer program. The photographer’s ability to remain unobtrusive allowed for a candid, authentic expression that speaks volumes about the human experience in a rural educational setting.