Even though I have not been actively involved in the feminist movement, the unfortunate stories of gender discrimination around me always evoke my profound reflections and deep thoughts. In human society, many seem to need to build their sense of value on comparison and discrimination. This need, arising from individual psychology, escalates to a societal level. This abnormal sense of security and achievement erroneously elevates people to a vantage point, allowing them to enjoy power and weapons they should not possess. Discrimination against women has been present in the past, remains in the present, and perhaps will continue into the future. I sincerely hope that one day, we can select our careers based on personal abilities and interests rather than being constrained by social gender biases. This photograph tells a true experience of my friend from forty years ago. Although she received higher education in mathematics at a well-known Canadian university, social pressures at that period led her to abandon her passion and instead pursue a career in cooking.

The global COVID pandemic, which began in 2020, has profoundly altered every facet of our lives. In-person events transitioned to virtual platforms, compelling us to pause and reassess our connections as long-distance relationships grew increasingly challenging. This new reality has prompted me to examine the nature of human relationships in a world devoid of physical touch, where communication hinges on technology.

I am a Chinese international student studying in Canada. It was a challenge during that time. I took this photograph at a train station, where I discovered a piece of broken glass displaying web-like patterns that evoked the interconnectedness of the internet. The bottom left corner showcases a dashed line, conjuring images of a treasure map. I framed myself within the composition, standing in a column that represents the tension between the dynamic motion of trains, the thrill of embarking on a treasure map journey, and the restrictive sensation of being caged.

As we navigate this era dominated by digital communication, each individual grapples with their unique emotional reactions to this transformation. This photograph seeks to delve into the intricacies of human connection and shed light on the challenges we face in maintaining relationships in a primarily virtual world.