Series description
In Latvia today, the younger generation is actively reshaping the country’s future. They address challenges in various ways, including bridging social divides stemming from the Soviet legacy, tackling the mental health crisis, advocating for gender equality, and engaging with national security concerns. During a visit to Latvia in March 2025, Zifan Zhang connected with young people across different sectors of society to gain a deeper understanding of how they are acting collectively as agents of change.
Shift Change
Two female soldiers walk past the Freedom Monument in central Riga during a shift change. The monument, honouring soldiers killed in the Latvian War of Independence, is guarded around the clock.
© Zifan Zhang, China Mainland, Shortlist, Student Competition, Together, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
Vladimir
Vladimir Bazarov (24), a servant at Riga’s Orthodox Cathedral, poses for a portrait. He grapples with tensions between Latvian heritage and the Russian-speaking community. The photographer notes that Bazarov is ‘labelled a “fascist” in Russia, and an “outsider” in Latvia,’ and uses his faith to promote understanding and tackle issues like alcoholism, aiming to build a more inclusive society.
© Zifan Zhang, China Mainland, Shortlist, Student Competition, Together, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
Mareks
Mareks Bērziņš (22) a tour guide at the former KGB building in Riga, poses for a portrait. Mareks shares Latvia’s complex past with visitors. A history student at the University of Latvia, he sees his role as a way to educate others on how history shapes the present. Though once drawn to film, he now says ‘freedom is not taken for granted.’
© Zifan Zhang, China Mainland, Shortlist, Student Competition, Together, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
Rehearsal
University students rehearse Folk Ensemble Rotaļa at the VEF Culture Palace in Riga
© Zifan Zhang, China Mainland, Shortlist, Student Competition, Together, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
Diāna
Diāna Grasmane (19) a transgender woman and activist, poses at her home in Riga. The photographer explains Diāna ‘confronts societal norms and transphobia, using her visibility to support and advocate for the queer community.’ Diāna says ‘I see myself as a radical political act,’ rooted in kindness, resilience, and the fight for a more inclusive Latvia.
© Zifan Zhang, China Mainland, Shortlist, Student Competition, Together, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
Twilight
A twilight view of Riga.
© Zifan Zhang, China Mainland, Shortlist, Student Competition, Together, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
Concert
Young people enjoy a Nova Koma concert in Riga.
© Zifan Zhang, China Mainland, Shortlist, Student Competition, Together, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards