One of Kirklees College’s adult learners and West Yorkshire photographer, Shona Leen, has won the Kirkwood Hospice’s annual calendar competition. Shona’s picture, which features Huddersfield’s iconic landmark Castle Hill, has been chosen as the cover of the 2026 Kirkwood Hospice calendar.
Shona, who is currently enrolled on the college’s Digital Photography course, found her passion for photography following the loss of her father in 2024. Shona has bravely shared her story of finding photography as a way to honour her father’s memory:
“I’ve been trying to use my grief as fuel to keep moving forward. Picking up his camera gave me a sense of purpose and something real to focus on after loss. It felt like he was still with me, encouraging me every step of the way.
That’s why I decided to enrol on the Kirklees College photography course, to gain knowledge and develop skills so I can continue growing in something that means so much to me. The course has been both fun and informative, giving me the chance to explore different styles of photography and learn more about the creative and technical sides of the craft. I’ve really enjoyed being part of a supportive environment where everyone shares the same passion, and it’s helped me build my confidence behind the camera even more.
Taking what I learnt in the course I took my Dad’s camera up to Castle Hill and captured the photo. It was the sixth-month anniversary of his passing and being surrounded by clouds felt special. You can even see a glimpse of my amazing Nana, my rock, in the bottom left of the image. For me, photography has become a way of preserving the moments that make life so special and celebrating the beauty that exists, even after loss.
Having my photography chosen for The Kirkwood 2026 calendar, especially for the cover, is incredibly meaningful to me, it feels like a tribute to my Dad and a reminder that even through loss, creativity and inspiration can grow.
I hope others can use their grief as fuel to never give up on their passions and to find ways to carry forward the love and inspiration of those we’ve lost. For me, photography has become both healing and fulfilling, a way of remembering the moments that matter most and I feel honoured to do the same for others: preserving moments and memories that last a lifetime.”
Congratulations Shona, and thank you for sharing your story with us. If Shona’s story has inspired you to pick up a lens, click here to find out more about our Digital Photography course for adults. To purchase The Kirkwood’s 2026 calendar, visit www.thekirkwood.org.uk/.
