Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Youth shine light on health in their communities through photo project
Ottawa – Monday evening at the Fall Down Gallery, Dr. Merrilee Fullerton, Board of Health member, Dr. Vera Etches, Associate Medical Officer of Health and members of the community celebrated the successes of the Ottawa Photovoice project at a Photo Gala for youth. The project gave youth aged 10 to 24 the opportunity to use photography to depict how they see health in their schools and in their communities. This project is a regional initiative from the Tobacco Control Area Network East.
The Gala showcased over 100 photos submitted by Ottawa youth. Each photo demonstrated youths’ creative depictions of health in their communities. Participating youth were also in attendance and had the opportunity to share with guests, the stories behind the pictures.
“It is great to see youth in Ottawa portraying how they see health in their communities through the art of photography,” said Dr. Fullerton, member of the Board of Health. “These photos are not only a showcase of talent and creativity but provide valuable insight into how we can make our city healthier.”
Youth that participated in the project were eligible to win great prizes. One lucky participant won by random draw, a DSLR Camera to help them develop their photo talent.
Photos submitted covered a range of health topics including; sexual health, body image, physical activity, smoking, and mental health.
“It’s extremely important for Ottawa Public Health to understand the health needs and wants of young people throughout the city,” said Dr. Etches. “We will be using these great photos and their stories and incorporating their voice into future programming.”
Entries will be compiled into a report and provided to the Board of Health and Ottawa Public Health. Through to May 2012, a travelling road show of photos will be showcased at Ottawa schools, community centres and public spaces.
For more information on Ottawa Public Health services, please visit ottawa.ca/health or call the OPH information line at 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-9656).
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