Fake News Competition

by

Jean Bogais judging a competition about Fake News

Engaging Youth in the Fight Against Fake News

A Creative Competition

Social media has transformed into a battleground for conflict, where information can manipulate political views and foster extremism. In this digital landscape, truth often succumbs to fake news, impacting real-world perceptions and behaviours.

Today’s conflicts revolve around information rather than traditional commodities; social media platforms have become key tools in this information warfare. Authenticity in this context is crucial, as individuals seek unique experiences online, often blurring the line between real and fake content.

Fake news competition run by Alliance Francaise
Fake news competition run by Alliance Francaise

In 2020, the French Embassy in Canberra approached me to help with a program run by all Alliance Françaises in Australia on the important topic of Fake News. The participants were high school students from across the country, each tasked with creating a work of art in a medium of their choice addressing the subject. Finalists would have their work reviewed by a panel, with winners invited to Canberra, where the French ambassador would present the prizes.

I served as a judge and delivered a 30-minute interactive presentation on the topic. Each participant received a copy of an article I wrote for the university on virtual tribes. During our session, we created a storyboard in real time based on the students’ responses. The engagement was impressive as participants reflected on each of the ‘stickers’ we had generated together. In just 30 minutes, we achieved great feedback and fostered a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding fake news.

Jean Bogais created a postit note about Fake News
We created a storyboard in real time based on the students’ responses.

This experience highlighted the potential of youth engagement in addressing pressing global issues, illustrating how creativity can spark critical conversations about the impact of misinformation in our society.

Photo of Tasmanian gatekeepers

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Man With Hat. A photo by Sydney photographer Jean Bogais

Portfolio of Work

Rather than merely describing the world, I see photography as a way to explore its meanings.

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Self Portrait of fine art photographer Jean Bogais

About Jean Bogais

SOCIOLOGIST & PHOTOGRAPHER

Jean Bogais is a Paris-Sorbonne educated sociologist (Doctorate), and Social & Intercultural Psychologist whose principal area of academic and professional interests have been (political) violence. He has a considerable experience working on-the-ground as a foreign correspondent, a UN investigator/negotiator, and also as a specialist teaching academic (professor level.) His practical experience comprises stays in North Africa and many years (25+) in Southeast Asia.

Jean is also a passionate photographer, capturing societal themes through his lens. His photography reflects his deep engagement with the complexities of the human experience, blending his insights with a visual narrative that explores the interplay between society and the environment.

His fascination with adventure started as a teenager. He has been a dedicated ocean sailor throughout his life, completing a round-the-world solo journey among other significant adventure projects. His passion for sailing started as a teenager, at the same time as his passion for photography.

Self Portrait of fine art photographer Jean Bogais

About Jean Bogais

SOCIOLOGIST & PHOTOGRAPHER

Jean Bogais is a Paris-Sorbonne educated sociologist (Doctorate), and Social & Intercultural Psychologist whose principal area of academic and professional interests have been (political) violence. He has a considerable experience working on-the-ground as a foreign correspondent, a UN investigator/negotiator, and also as a specialist teaching academic (professor level.) His practical experience comprises stays in North Africa and many years (25+) in Southeast Asia.

Jean is also a passionate photographer, capturing societal themes through his lens. His photography reflects his deep engagement with the complexities of the human experience, blending his insights with a visual narrative that explores the interplay between society and the environment.

His fascination with adventure started as a teenager. He has been a dedicated ocean sailor throughout his life, completing a round-the-world solo journey among other significant adventure projects. His passion for sailing started as a teenager, at the same time as his passion for photography.

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