Robyn Jean, Ceremony (PEOPLE 2025)

These three photographs capture the beauty and significance of a smoking ceremony, an ancient Aboriginal tradition of cleansing and healing. The images showcase young Aboriginal people fully engaged in the moment, their expressions radiating joy and connection as they embrace the swirling smoke of burning gum leaves. The soft tendrils of smoke dance around them, symbolizing renewal and the passing of knowledge. Each frame highlights the deep cultural connection between the young participants and their heritage, celebrating the strength, resilience, and spirit of Aboriginal traditions in a contemporary setting. These three photographs capture the beauty and significance of a smoking ceremony, an ancient Aboriginal tradition of cleansing and healing. The images showcase young Aboriginal people fully engaged in the moment, their expressions radiating joy and connection as they embrace the swirling smoke of burning gum leaves. The soft tendrils of smoke dance around them, symbolizing renewal and the passing of knowledge. Each frame highlights the deep cultural connection between the young participants and their heritage, celebrating the strength, resilience, and spirit of Aboriginal traditions in a contemporary setting.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.