Northern Rivers people with disabilities are invited to take part in a photography project, designed to capture their experience of the world and give others more understanding of living with disabilities.

Photovoice is a five-week photography workshop-project led by a not-for-profit organization, Social Futures – an NDIS partner in the community.

Social Futures Capacity Building and Engagement Manager Lynda Hope describes Photovoice as a form of photographic storytelling.

“Photovoice explores the concept of ‘disability pride’ and each week participants take a photo connected to a theme that helps them express how they feel. The topics the group will discuss include ‘I love being me because…’, ‘inclusion’ , ‘courage’ and ‘pride’,” Ms Hope said.

“Photovoice will be running online, so all participants need is a smart phone or a camera, and the Zoom video chat app.

“And you don’t even need to be particularly creative to participate. You just need to be comfortable talking and sharing in a small group. You will also have the opportunity to make new friends.

“We will teach you how to use your smart phone or camera with tips and tricks for taking great photos. And you will need a willingness to learn more about yourself and share with others.”

“Every week participants will then share their photos illustrating that theme and then explaining their photos. We do this as a group.

“People will feel supported and safe to explore their thoughts, feelings and perspectives about topics relating to disability that aren’t usually talked about.”

You can learn more about Photovoice by watching this video on the Social Futures website: https://socialfutures.org.au/service/photovoice-share-the-world-through-your-eyes/

Ms Hope said she wanted to organize a community exhibition of photos the participants were happy to share.

“Thought-provoking photos show the reality of the participants’ lives to the community – they illuminate challenges, celebrate triumphs and hopefully encourage the broader community to have a deeper understanding of the lives of people with disabilities and the issues that affect them,” she said.

If you are aged 18 years or older and interested in being part of Photovoice – Disability Pride groups with Social Futures, call 1800 522 679 or email [email protected]