Nicole Tung Honored with the 2026 IWMF Anja Niedringhaus Award for Bravery in Photojournalism

Nicole Tung Honored with 2026 IWMF Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award

The International Women's Media Foundation (IWMF) has officially recognized Nicole Tung as the recipient of the esteemed Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award for 2026. This accolade highlights the dedication and relentless passion she brings to her craft as a photojournalist.

Tung, renowned for her poignant coverage of communities ravaged by conflict, particularly in the Middle East, has received this honor following previous commendations in both 2015 and 2017. Winning this distinguished award for the third time solidifies her unique recognition within the sphere of photojournalism. The Anja Niedringhaus Award was established in memory of a celebrated German photographer who tragically lost her life while on assignment in Afghanistan.

In her award-winning submission, Tung captures the immense human cost of war over 13 years, particularly highlighting the ongoing conflicts in Syria and Ukraine. Her work vividly portrays the extensive destruction, tragic loss of life, and the devastating consequences faced by communities caught in perpetual turmoil. As she frames her images, she seeks to tell the harrowing stories of those affected by war, including the challenges faced by families and the reality of refugee life.

Elisa Lees Muñoz, the President of the IWMF, remarked on Tung's work, emphasizing her unwavering commitment to returning to the frontline, sharing the experiences of people severely impacted by violence. “Nicole embodies the spirit of Anja, ensuring that the stories of those trapped in war are not forgotten, a testament to her tenacity and courage,” Muñoz expressed.

In her own words, Tung described receiving the award as an honor that deeply resonates with her. “Following in Anja's footsteps means so much to me. The essence of photojournalism lies in passion, perseverance, and the belief that our documentation has the power to create change. Thank you to the IWMF for championing the importance of every voice being heard,” she stated while speaking from her current base in Istanbul.

Alongside Tung, the IWMF recognized Daro Sulakauri from Georgia and Viviana Peretti from Bogotá for their remarkable work in visual storytelling. Sulakauri’s submission, “Chasing Shadows,” delves into the hidden crimes affecting Georgian society, particularly focusing on issues such as illegal adoptions. Peretti, on the other hand, presents “Limbo,” a multi-decade exploration into the painful experiences of families impacted by forced disappearances in Colombia.

The jury, which included esteemed photojournalists and editors, reviewed over 130 submissions from nearly 50 countries before selecting the honorees. They highlighted that this year's chosen journalists sensitively convey the persistent grief born from violence, not only documenting events but building trust within the communities they portray.

The Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award, which comprises a $20,000 prize sponsored by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, not only serves to recognize individual excellence but also encourages future generations of journalists to continue confronting difficult realities with bravery and integrity.

As an American citizen raised in Hong Kong, Tung graduated with dual degrees in journalism and history from New York University. She has gained significant recognition for her coverage of a range of conflicts from Libya to Syria and various humanitarian challenges, including refugee crises in Europe.

Photojournalism is not just about taking pictures; it is about telling untold stories. For Tung and her fellow honorees, the award underlines the importance of their work in highlighting the struggles of those silenced by conflict, ensuring that their voices are not lost to history.

To follow her journey, check out Nicole Tung’s work on her Instagram account @nicoletung.

This recognition not only amplifies Tung's poignant narratives but stands as a beacon of inspiration for women and non-binary journalists globally. It serves as a striking reminder that the role of a photojournalist is vital in revealing the untold stories that shape our world.