A workshop held in Kathmandu marks the first of two planned under the follow-up to the initial Photovoice study, which aims to identify and amplify the voices of women with disabilities in the climate discourse. The initiative will culminate in a study report and a compelling photo story of ten women with disabilities, showcasing their relationship with climate change. The final findings and photo stories will be launched at the Swiss Embassy in Nepal on International Women’s Day 2025, symbolizing a commitment to inclusive advocacy and action.
A transformative two-day training on November 20-21, 2024, brought together 34 participants in Kathmandu, including women with disabilities, representatives from Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), and support persons, to amplify their voices in climate change advocacy through Photovoice. This innovative participatory research method empowers individuals to document lived experiences and influence policies using visual storytelling.
“This training has empowered us not just to tell our stories, but to demand change.”
The workshop, spearheaded by the Swiss Disability and Development Consortium (SDDC)—comprising CBM, Fairmed, HI, and IDA—and facilitated by the Nepali research company Diverse Patterns, builds on the foundation of an earlier Photovoice study. Its primary aim is to enhance participants’ understanding of disability rights, the intersection of disability and climate change, and the technical skills required for impactful photography.
Day One: Bridging Disability Rights and Climate Justice
The opening day centered on the nexus of disability and climate change. Pascal, Advocacy Project Manager from CBM Switzerland, inaugurated the workshop, underscoring the critical need for inclusive climate adaptation strategies. Esteemed disability rights activist Sagar Prasai and Tika Dahal, President of the Nepal Disabled Women Association, led discussions on the social model of disability, accessibility barriers, and the compounded challenges faced by women with disabilities.
Climate science was demystified by facilitator Leena Bajraachrya, while gender and environment activist Pabita Shahi highlighted the tangible impacts of climate change on local communities and the urgency for inclusive adaptation practices. These discussions laid a strong foundation, equipping participants with the knowledge to connect disability advocacy with climate justice and climate action.
Day Two: Mastering Storytelling Through Photography
The second day brought a practical approach, focusing on photography as a tool for advocacy. Kishor Sharma, a seasoned photography expert, delivered hands-on training in composition, lighting, and ethical storytelling. Participants were guided by Dr. Chandra to link their images to research questions, capturing the realities of climate change through their unique perspectives.
“Photography is a powerful medium. It allows us to communicate experiences that words alone cannot capture,”
said Kishor Sharma during the session. Participants practiced documenting stories that resonate deeply, ensuring their work could influence policies and promote inclusive climate action.
Participants left the workshop with a determination to leverage their skills in documenting the impacts of climate change in their communities in their photographs.