Spirit Cultural Exchange is excited to announce the Summer 2025 Photo Contest Grand Prize Winner: Omarion F., a Summer Work and Travel participant from Jamaica. Omarion’s photo was submitted for Week 2: “Your New International Friends,” and it perfectly captured the joy of making meaningful connections during a cultural exchange experience.
His winning photo was taken in the West Glacier, Montana area, where he spent the summer working and exploring the natural beauty of the region. In the photo, Omarion and several international friends are gathered outdoors, surrounded by mountains and a colorful sky. With the caption, “There’s nothing better than a view like this!”, Omarion highlighted not only the breathtaking scenery but also the friendships and unforgettable experiences that made his summer special.
In his message to Spirit Cultural Exchange, Omarion shared more about his time in Montana and what it meant to him:
“My favorite part about living and working in Montana would be the adventures and the nature that surrounds me.”
His memories include hiking, sightseeing, and bonding with people from around the world. One moment he will never forget was a late-night hike up a mountain that ended with a bonfire gathering under the stars.
“One memory I will never forget would be our late night hike to the top of a mountain where a bonfire get-together awaited us.”
During his time in Montana, Omarion also went biking through Glacier National Park, attended a barbecue cookout with music, and played card games with new friends. He spent time sightseeing in the mountains, enjoying the peaceful environment and the connections he made along the way.
When asked if he formed any lasting friendships, Omarion said:
“Yes, I’ve made meaningful connections with some people I’ve met while working alongside them.”
For future participants considering the program, Omarion encourages them to take the leap:
“Advice I would give to someone thinking of joining the Work and Travel program would be that they should definitely go for it. The experience is worth it. There is nothing better than expanding your connections worldwide.”
Omarion’s story is a powerful reminder of what the Summer Work and Travel program is all about: exploring new places, building friendships across cultures, and creating lifelong memories. His photo, full of energy and connection, was chosen as the Photo Contest Grand Prize winner because it clearly represented the theme of cultural exchange.
We would like to thank all our participants who submitted photos throughout the summer. Each entry gave us a unique look into your lives, whether at work, with friends, or during your travels across the US. Your creativity and stories brought this year’s photo contest to life.
To Omarion, our Photo Contest Grand Prize Winner, congratulations again! Thank you for sharing your journey with us and for showing the true meaning of friendship, adventure, and cultural exchange.