The event followed a joint visit to disability organizations, where students and UNFPA staff learned directly from persons with disabilities about their lived experiences and the daily barriers they face.

To turn these conversations into action, the celebration featured sports and arts activities that created an inclusive space where everyone—regardless of ability—could participate, express themselves, and feel valued.

Held on a school campus with support from UNFPA, the program included blind football, basketball, and swimming sessions led by National Paralympic athletes, as well as creative workshops and handicraft demonstrations facilitated by XonPhao and the Lao Disabled Women’s Development Center. These activities were made possible through the strong involvement of OPDs and dedicated school teachers, highlighting the talent, resilience, and leadership of persons with disabilities.

The event left a strong impression on participants. Bounjop, an athlete from the Blind Football Federation Laos, shared his enthusiasm: “I was extremely happy to join the young people today. For those of us living with a disability, being invited into this space makes me feel truly included and part of the wider community.”

Lao National Paralympic swimmer Pongsavanh emphasized looking beyond physical limitations. “I am happy that people with disabilities were given the chance to demonstrate their skills to everyone. While our bodies may have limitations, our hearts and minds do not,” he said.

Mr. Kham-ngor Phongphana, also a Paralympic swimmer, echoed this sentiment, saying, “I am very happy to have been invited. I appreciate the importance given to people with disabilities in such a public and meaningful way.”

Beyond sports, the gathering provided a platform for participants to share knowledge and skills through a variety of handicraft activities, demonstrating that disability does not limit a person’s ability to live a fulfilling life or contribute actively to society.

UNFPA expressed its sincere appreciation to the Government of Australia for its financial support and to the network of persons with disabilities for mobilizing talented members in art and sport to showcase the skills and capacities of persons with disabilities.

“True inclusion begins when we create spaces where every individual is seen, heard, and valued,” said Dr. Bakhtiyor Kadyrov, UNFPA Representative in Lao PDR. “This event shows what is possible when institutions, families, teachers, and young people come together with commitment and kindness. These activities are not only celebrations—they help build a society where no one is left behind and diversity is a source of strength.”

The inclusive spirit of the event culminated in a closing ceremony for the 16 Days of Activism, featuring a diversity and inclusion walk and a theater performance by nominated persons with disabilities. UNFPA reaffirmed that its engagement with organizations of persons with disabilities will continue beyond this event.

The activity underscored UNFPA’s ongoing commitment to promoting equal participation and advancing an inclusive Lao PDR where everyone’s abilities are recognized and celebrated.

KPL