Ukraine Award

Hersh Chadha's association with Ukraine goes back to 1998 when he first visited the country. The trip was a revelation and he was truly impressed with the depth of the talent on display there. Great talent but little commensurate opportunity. The imbalance made a vivid impression on him and he realised that while the Iron Curtain rule could not diminish the spirit of the artists, it had created a deep and abiding desire to seek an avenue of expression, rather like a thoroughbred straining to leave the starting gate.

It was this raw native talent and the awesome human experience that propelled it that compelled Hersh to decide he needed to tap and then channel it into the larger world. It was as much love for photography as it was generosity that prompted the institution of an annual award.

He elected the Institute of Journalism, Taras Shevchenko National University, Kiev, Ukraine for the project. The singular aim is to identify new talent in photography and to encourage and mould it. The award consists of a cash prize, a certificate and a rotating shield. There is no firm criteria for the selection since the art form is most subjective but apart from the given parameters of imagination, approach, dedication and effort perhaps what is sought is that mystique of commitment. Combined with that rare ability to establish rapport it sifts the truly talented from the merely amateur. This award recognises

that very special gift and every year a jury is empowered to select two deserving students for this award.

Hersh has himself been honoured for his body of work by being conferred the title of Honorary Professor of Photography by the Institute of Journalism. The saga does not end here. To promote photography at a professional level Hersh has come into an association with The Union of Photo Artists, the biggest photography club in Ukraine. It boasts over 500 members and networks across Ukraine. In a rare departure from art and photography to art and science he has signed up with the IKAR Club, whose members work for the world renowned Antanov Aircraft Design Bureau. Hersh's company Portfolios has also undertaken the role of curator for an exhibition of Ukrainian Photographers in Abu Dhabi, UAE in collaboration with the Embassy of Ukraine.

As has been the motif in his strategy, Hersh is also associated with the All Ukrainian Charitable Foundation of Hope and Good. This foundation helps children and families from adjoining areas of Chernobyl and the chief patron of this foundation is the First Lady of Ukraine, Mrs. Liudmyla Kuchma, whom Hersh had the privilege to meet during her recent visit to the UAE and for whose efforts he has much admiration.

Ukraine and Hersh Chadha have an indelible relationship and it should aspire to greater heights in the future.