George “Sonny” Bernard Jr.
Memorial Photography Competition
Framing Our Stories. Honouring Our Legacy.
The Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia is proud to announce a competition created in honour of the life, artistry, and lasting legacy of pioneering African Nova Scotian photographer George “Sonny” Bernard Jr.
Honouring a Legacy
George understood the power of photography to capture more than a moment. Through his lens, he documented families, communities, celebrations, landscapes, leaders, and important chapters of Black history.
His photographs remind us that images can preserve memory, express identity, and ensure that our stories are seen and remembered.
In that spirit, photographers of all experience levels are invited to submit original work that reflects creativity, storytelling, and a thoughtful connection to one of our three categories.
"Every photograph tells a story. Every image can preserve a memory. And every photographer has the opportunity to help future generations see the people, places, and experiences that shaped our time."
Competition Categories
Submit your original work in one of the following categories.
Nature
Images that celebrate the beauty, character, and diversity of the natural world. Entries may include landscapes, wildlife, plants, coastlines, changing seasons, or other interpretations of our relationship with nature.
Families
Images that explore family, connection, belonging, tradition, love, and community. We encourage photographs that capture both everyday moments and meaningful occasions.
African Nova Scotian Symbolism
Images that creatively explore African Nova Scotian identity, heritage, culture, history, community, traditions, places, objects, and symbols. Entries may be documentary, contemporary, conceptual, or artistic.
Important Dates
- Competition Opens August 17, 2026
- Submission Deadline November 30, 2026
- Winners Announced February 27, 2027 During the BCCNS African Heritage Month Gala
Jury & Judging
All eligible submissions will be reviewed by a jury. Entries will be evaluated using criteria including:
- Creativity and originality
- Composition & visual impact
- Technical quality (light, colour, perspective)
- Storytelling
- Interpretation of the selected category
- Overall artistic style
Submit Your Photograph
Join us in celebrating George “Sonny” Bernard Jr. by sharing the world through your lens. Upload your high-quality digital JPEG file below.