EXHIBITION
Date: JAN 15 - FEB 15, 2025
Opening: JAN18th
Location: Factory Phnom Penh
Organizer: 認定 NPO法人 Hearts of Gold
Collaborator: Cloud Photo Studio, Oduro Kofi
Cooperator: National Paralympic Committee of Cambodia
This exhibition was organized by the NPO/NGO "Hearts of Gold," a non-profit organization founded by Yuko Arimori in 1998. Dedicated to supporting children, persons with disabilities, and impoverished individuals in disaster-stricken areas, conflict zones, and developing countries, the organization strives to improve lives through sports, education, and various activities, bringing "hope and courage" to face life’s challenges.
The exhibition opening attracted more than 60 participants, including para-athletes, photographers, NGO staff, corporate employees, and project stakeholders. It focused on the stories of individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion.
One Japanese NGO staff member commented, "This was a wonderful exhibition. I can’t wait to share it with our colleagues in Cambodia so they can visit as well." The exhibition also received overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees. Some survey respondents shared, "I was deeply inspired and motivated." "I didn’t know much about persons with disabilities before, but from now on, I will pay more attention to them." "I want to share the stories of people with disabilities with my family and friends." "I want to learn more about persons with disabilities and support organizations helping them." Many participants expressed that the event provided them with a great opportunity to understand and care more about persons with disabilities, as well as to learn about the importance of diversity and inclusion.
During the event, a para-athlete shared her personal journey. They explained how para-sports were once overlooked, but thanks to increased societal support, more people are now aware of the lives and efforts of athletes with disabilities. Reflecting on their experience, the athlete said, "After becoming disabled, I felt isolated and avoided by others, with no friends to turn to. However, once I started participating in sports, I met others with similar experiences, grew stronger both physically and mentally, and began leading a fulfilling life." They expressed heartfelt gratitude to Hearts of Gold, the Paralympic Committee, the photographers involved in the project, and all the supporters who made the event possible.
This exhibition was more than just a showcase of the lives of persons with disabilities—it was a celebration of hope, courage, and inclusion. It inspired attendees to care for vulnerable communities, spread kindness, and support the development of diversity. Through this meaningful event, Hearts of Gold successfully advanced its mission of fostering hope and resilience through sports and education, empowering everyone to embrace life’s challenges.
