Sodiq Adelakun, Senior Photo Editor at Channels TV and renowned global visual journalist, has been chosen as a member of the jury for the prestigious 2024 World Press Photo contest.
The Netherlands-based non-profit organization, in its 68th year, is dedicated to recognizing excellence in photojournalism and documentary photography worldwide.
Adelakun, a seasoned documentary photojournalist and former Punch Newspaper Photojournalist, has been selected to join the African jury, one of six continental bodies comprising five members each.
The African jury will review submissions for this year’s contest, evaluating and selecting the winning photographs and stories shot in Africa before presenting them to the global jury.
Expressing his gratitude, Adelakun stated, “I’m honored to have this opportunity to represent my country, most especially Africa in such a time where impactful visual journalism needs to be resuscitated for budding visual journalists. I look forward to seeing innovative inclusion of African stories, most especially stories that can elevate and put Africa on the pinnacle.”
Adelakun, a contributor for AFP, brings nearly two decades of experience in visual storytelling to the judging process.
He is the second Nigerian photojournalist to be awarded the World Press Photo prize and the first Nigerian winner to become a member of the jury since the inception of the renowned contest.
The judging process, scheduled for January and February 2024, takes place in several rounds involving regional juries and a global jury.
Adelakun will contribute his expertise during the African Jury’s reviewing process in South Africa, and the final winners will be announced by the head of the global jury.
The 2024 World Press Photo Contest is currently open for entries until January 2024. The contest encourages a multiplicity of stories and welcomes a diverse range of photographers from around the world. Prizes include up to €6000 and a global traveling exhibition
