Libyan social activist and photographer Osama Thini was honoured at an international festival in Beirut, Lebanon, for his humanitarian work and for harnessing his talent for photography to make Libyan culture and traditions known to the world.
The Libya Observer caught up with him to learn more about his award and the event that took place in December.
"I was nominated by some of my audience who are following me on Facebook, precisely from Iraq, there were many competitors who are also doing a great job, but in the end, the jury had to make up their minds, and for my luck, I went through, and there I was in Lebanon to receive my award."
"The atmosphere at the festival was remarkable, the visitors, the guests, the activities all went great. The event featured music, poetry, and other activities. It was also great to see well-known public figures and ambassadors from various Arab countries."
Osama Thini is a Libyan citizen from the Owainat region, near the Akakus Mountains in Ghat south of Libya. He's of a Tuerg origin and an engineer and says he finds happiness in the simple life.
Being a photographer, Osama believes in the term that says "the picture is worth a thousand words." "I started a journey to familiarize myself with the culture of my people, and doing so I realized the importance of the picture.
"I want the world to know how beautiful Libya is and share with them our colourful and diverse culture."
Behind the beautiful pictures that Osama posts lie challenging stories, not the least, the risky journey through the desert route used by gangs and smugglers.
Sometimes I have to go deep in the desert as far as "Wadi Makhandoush" to take a photo of an archaeological carving on a mountain, or your car breaks down, and you have to wait for someone to pass by to give a hand, and this may last for days.
Through his social media platform, Thini managed to link needy people with donators, who helped in facilitating medical treatment, repairing homes, and contributing to other charitable work.
He also launched a campaign to build a school in the deep desert and documented, with pictures, the stages of the project and the smile on the children's faces after finishing the facility.