This month, we’re proud to spotlight Voices of Ubuntu- a powerful storytelling and portrait photography project that amplifies the voices of families raising children with developmental disabilities in central Uganda.
‘Voice of Ubuntu’ seeks to explore the power of community for children with developmental disabilities and their families through storytelling and portrait photography. Rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu- a deep sense of togetherness and shared humanity- the project invites families from the Baby Ubuntu programme to share their experiences of care, connection, and resilience. Through in-depth interviews and striking portraits, Voices of Ubuntu shifts the narrative from stigma to strength, creating space for real stories of love, advocacy, and belonging.
Ronald, one of the youth researchers interviews Martha an expert mother and master facilitator
Caregivers share messages to the world about their children with disabilities. Left sign “We shouldn’t discriminate children with developmental disabilities we should treat and care for them as other children” Right sign: A child with disabilities is not a curse love and care for them as other children”
Led by the Baby Ubuntu team in collaboration with four youth researchers with disabilities from the MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit in Entebbe, the project worked with 13 families, including mothers, fathers, aunts, siblings, and their children.
Families were invited to reflect on:
- What do I want the world to know about my child and disability?
- What message would I share with other caregivers?
- How has Baby Ubuntu impacted our lives?
Through this project, caregivers and children are leaders of the conversation, reshaping how disability is seen and understood in their communities and beyond.
Stay tuned for the full collection of portraits and stories, which will be shared in an upcoming public exhibition and online showcase.
