King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) held a press conference to advance the project “Creative Media Innovation for Disability Social Communication: 7 INSPIRATIONS (Phase 3)” – a project funded for the fiscal year 2025 by the Fund for the Promotion and Development of the Quality of Life of Persons with Disabilities, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. The event occurred at the Professor Prasom Rungsirojorn Auditorium, Faculty of Architecture, Art and Design, KMITL.
Ms. Natthaorn Indeesri, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, stated that the Department is committed to promoting and developing the quality of life of persons with disabilities in all aspects. Creating a positive attitude and fostering communication to build societal understanding is a mission of utmost importance. The project “7 INSPIRATIONS (Phase 3)” is a powerful tool to achieve these goals by presenting real and inspirational stories directly from persons with disabilities.
She expressed her appreciation for the vision and dedication of the working team from the Fund for the Promotion and Development of the Quality of Life of Persons with Disabilities, together with the team from KMITL, who have initiated and driven this project forward with full commitment.
The creation of the seven short films, which reflect the diversity of disabilities, individual potential, and the determination to live fully, will be highly beneficial in fostering understanding and reducing prejudice in society. She expressed her firm hope that the public will receive the project well and inspire attitude change and concrete practices that enable persons with disabilities to access opportunities and participate proudly in the country’s development.
Ms. Wisthida Uittayakul, Director of the Fund for the Promotion and Development of the Quality of Life of Persons with Disabilities, spoke about the Fund’s creative media initiative to foster positive attitudes toward persons with disabilities. She stated that the Fund is delighted to support the “7 INSPIRATIONS (Phase 3) project,” which aligns perfectly with the Fund’s core objective of promoting and enhancing the quality of life of persons with disabilities in all dimensions.
She emphasized that fostering accurate and positive attitudes toward persons with disabilities is a fundamental cornerstone leading to acceptance, opportunity, and equal coexistence. Creative media is a powerful tool that can reach a broad audience and foster understanding and attitude change.
This project is a clear example of presenting real-life stories of persons with disabilities – stories filled with inspiration, strength, and admirable potential. The Fund sincerely hopes that the seven short films will serve as an important medium for raising awareness, fostering understanding, and cultivating empathy in society.
Associate Professor Dr. Komsan Maleesee, President of King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL), stated that the Institute is committed to creating research and innovations in all areas to empower and facilitate the lives of all people, including building collaborative networks with persons with disabilities. In the past, KMITL has developed various innovations and technologies to support people with disabilities in education, employment, and daily living.
In particular, the “7 Inspirations” project, a form of creative media aimed at promoting knowledge, understanding, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities, represents a highly significant initiative. Additionally, KMITL plans to establish the “KDSS: KMITL Disabled Students Services and Support” center to provide comprehensive support and assistance for students with disabilities, ensuring a better quality of life on campus.
This initiative aligns with KMITL’s goal of being a “University for All” and is an important step toward sustainable development in the future.
Assistant Professor Dr. Torsangrasamee Teetakaew, KMITL Vice president for Corporate Communications, and the project leader of ‘7 INSPIRATIONS (Phase 3),’ stated that the main objective of the ‘7 INSPIRATIONS (Phase 3)’ project is to create seven short films that convey inspirational stories from representatives of seven different types of disabilities. Throughout the project, our team has been committed to presenting life stories, abilities, and the potential of persons with disabilities across various dimensions to foster understanding, positive attitudes, and acceptance of diversity in society.
All the model persons with disabilities, their caregivers, families, and advisors from disability associations have cooperated in writing the storylines, scripts, and production to ensure the stories meet the goals of producing inspiring media. These films will be an essential tool in driving a truly opportunity-inclusive society.
“In selecting filming locations, we chose the Faculty of Architecture, Art, and Design, as well as central areas of KMITL, because they are designed according to the Universal Design concept, supporting accessibility and usability for persons with disabilities. This aligns with the university’s vision as a learning space for everyone,” Assistant Professor Dr. Thorsangrassamee added.
The “7 INSPIRATIONS” project focuses on creating seven short films, each no longer than 30 minutes, based on inspiring stories from representatives of seven types of disabilities. The scripts for all seven films emphasize living a happy life, self-acceptance, confidence in one’s abilities, and achievements resulting from perseverance. This aligns with the national strategy and policies on promoting and improving the quality of life for persons with disabilities, particularly in fostering positive attitudes toward people with disabilities. The project aims to build empowerment and create a network to drive future initiatives related to disability advocacy.
All the stories have been reviewed and approved by the project advisory committee and the board of the Fund for the Promotion and Development of the Quality of Life of Persons with Disabilities, including:
Story 1: “Maprang Wan: The Miraculous Child”
This story presents the life of Ms. Siprang Nanpeng (nicknamed Maprang), a 13-year-old model person with disabilities from Saraburi Province in 2023. It reflects the power of love, understanding, and dedication of her family, which has created a happy, strong life for Maprang. She possesses talents in singing and traditional Thai dance. The advisor, Mr. Suchart Owatwanasukul, President of the Association of Parents of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities of Thailand, commented on the inspirational concept of the story: “Raising a child with intellectual disabilities is challenging, but Maprang’s family shows that having her has made everyone in the family special. It encourages other families to adopt positive thinking and build love and understanding as their foundation.”
Story 2: “Blue Shades”
This story depicts the life of Ms. Fah Piangfan Naksukpaiboon, a model person with autism who has succeeded academically and received a scholarship to pursue a doctoral degree in medical science in the United Kingdom. She also has a unique talent in archery. The inspirational concept behind this story is to show that despite differences, with determination, effort, and continuous self-improvement, one can overcome limitations and achieve success by relying on understanding and opportunities from people around and in society.
Story 3: “My World is Just Out There! – Two Wheels Challenge the World”
This story presents the life of Mr. Sophon Chimjinda, a person with mobility impairment who never gives up despite obstacles following an accident. He continues to travel by wheelchair and works as an inspirational speaker. The inspirational concept of this story is to highlight that physical disabilities are not limitations to pursuing dreams. With strong determination and a changed perspective, one can live life and stand firm for oneself and one’s family.
Story 4: “Run more worry less”
This story is about Ms. A-Patummas Jadjang, a person with mental disabilities known as the “Sky Runner” and the owner of the Facebook page “Run Healing the Heart.” She uses running to heal from depression and passes on encouragement to others facing hardships. The inspirational concept emphasizes the importance of cooperation between people and society in creating an environment conducive to mental healing and mutual encouragement.
Story 5: “Happy Memory”
This story features Mr. Phurivat Amornpeer (Base), a person with a learning disability who uses his own experience to support the activities of the LD Association. It reflects the importance of understanding, care, and appropriate teaching techniques to support those with learning difficulties. The inspirational concept points out that with understanding and encouragement, people with learning disabilities can live and learn happily and unlock their potential for success.
Story 6: “The Teacher – Kru Khanit”
This story portrays Dr. Khanit Phamanee, a person with visual impairment and a practicing academic dedicated to creating appropriate curricula and learning systems for people with disabilities. Mr. Ekkamon Pataeyanun, President of the Thai Association of the Blind, serves as advisor. The inspirational concept shows that although vision is important, an open heart, perseverance, and determination can lead to success and create an equal world for everyone.
Story 7: “Be the One: That Proud Me”
This story features Mr. Thiw Natthapong Ngiwlek, Mister Deaf Thailand 2017, who works like anyone else. It reflects the opportunities and acceptance from society that have transformed an ordinary person’s life, enabling him to pursue his dreams and build self-pride. Mr. Nabdao Ong-apichat, President of the Deaf Thai Rainbow Club (DTRC), serves as advisor. The inspirational concept emphasizes that although communication languages differ if one opens one’s heart to listen, nothing can stand in the way. Opportunities from society can transform lives and empower people to live happily.
The project “7 INSPIRATIONS (Phase 3)” has also selected the theme song to accompany the films – a song full of inspiration and social encouragement titled “Award for Dreamers,” with lyrics and melody composed by Mr. Charan Manopetch. Copyright permission has been officially obtained from the heirs. The music was re-arranged by the legendary producer, Professor Solas Poonkabutr. The honorary singers include Jiew Sakunchai Plianram, known as Jiew the Voice; Mental – Taweerat Kamsena, known as Mental Bussaba; along with Ms. Ai Thammarin, Ms. Thasangrapee, and Ms. Thasangsinee Teethakaew from SBS International Bangkok School. The recording was done at the College of Musical Engineering, KMITL.
The “7 INSPIRATIONS (Phase 3)” project marks an important milestone for KMITL in using the power of creative media to promote understanding, positive attitudes, and acceptance of diversity in society. It aims to advance an open and inclusive society that truly offers opportunities for people with disabilities.
You can watch all seven short films in the project at:
YouTube: 7Inspirations https://www.youtube.com/@7Inspirationsmovie
Facebook: 7Inspirations https://www.facebook.com/7Inspirationsmovies
