HÀ NỘI — A photo exhibition featuring 150 photos taken by 30 photographers with disabilities opened yesterday at the Museum of Vietnamese Women.

Titled Inclusive Colours, the art event is being held jointly by the Embassy of Finland in Hà Nội and Inclusive Development Action (IDEA) within the framework of activities celebrating the 100^th anniversary of the Independence of Finland and Việt Nam’s Disability Day (April 18).

Selected from over 1,500 entries, the photographs displayed at Inclusive Colours showcase many themes related to the realities people face in their daily life, employment, livelihood, countryside and family. Each photo presents a real, emotional, humble and diverse look into the life of people with disabilities and their will and aspiration to be included.

“We have some disabilities related to our body but no disability in mind and will. Each day goes by, we try to improve ourselves,” Nguyễn Văn Hòa, member of Phúc Trìu Commune’s Association of People with Disabilities, under Thái Nguyên City, said.

“Through these photos, we wish everybody sees our determination and tireless efforts for a better life. We understand that through our spirit and will, along with encouragement from our family and support from the community and society, we will overcome all barriers to integrate,” he added.

The photos were taken by members of Thái Nguyên City’s Association of People with Disabilities following a five-month training programme organised as part of the project "Promoting Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in Việt Nam," implemented by IDEA with financial support from the Embassy of Finland.

“Upon visiting the exhibition, you will realise ‘each life is a novel.’ We respect and adore Hiền, Sinh, Sơn, Hoa, Khai, Nhâm and others. They are the real artists, never retreating from their destiny but always confidently holding their heads high,” Nguyễn Hồng Oanh, director of IDEA, said.

Inclusive Colours is on until April 23 and is free of charge. — VNS