KMITL Unveils ‘7 Inspirations’ Media Project for Inclusion
King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) held a press conference to advance its “Creative Media Innovation for Disability Social Communication: 7 INSPIRATIONS (Phase 3)” project – funded for 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 took place 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, stated that the Department is committed to promoting and improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities in all aspects. She emphasised that creating a positive attitude and fostering communication to build societal understanding is a mission of utmost importance. The “7 INSPIRATIONS (Phase 3)” project is a powerful tool in achieving 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, alongside the team from KMITL, for initiating and driving this project forward with full commitment.
The creation of seven short films, reflecting the diversity of disabilities, individual potential, and determination to live fully, will greatly foster understanding and reduce prejudice in society. Ms Natthaorn expressed her hope that the public would embrace the project and be inspired to adopt attitudes and practices that enable persons with disabilities to access opportunities and participate proudly in national 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 towards persons with disabilities. She expressed delight at supporting the “7 INSPIRATIONS (Phase 3)” project, which aligns with the Fund’s core objective of enhancing the quality of life of persons with disabilities in all dimensions.
She stressed that fostering accurate and positive attitudes is fundamental to achieving acceptance, opportunity, and equal coexistence. Creative media is a powerful tool that can reach wide audiences and foster understanding and attitude change. This project is a clear example, presenting real-life stories of persons with disabilities – stories filled with inspiration, strength, and admirable potential. The Fund sincerely hopes the seven short films will serve as an important medium to raise awareness, foster understanding, and cultivate empathy across society.
Associate Professor Dr Komsan Maleesee, President of KMITL, affirmed the Institute’s commitment to creating research and innovations that empower and facilitate the lives of all people, including building collaborative networks with persons with disabilities. KMITL has previously developed various innovations and technologies to support persons with disabilities in education, employment, and daily living.
In particular, the “7 INSPIRATIONS” project, as a form of creative media aimed at promoting knowledge, understanding, and equal opportunities, represents a highly significant initiative. Additionally, KMITL plans to establish the KDSS: KMITL Disabled Students Services and Support centre to provide comprehensive support and assistance to students with disabilities, ensuring a better quality of life on campus.
This initiative aligns with KMITL’s vision of being a “University for All” and represents a crucial 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 project is to create seven short films that convey inspirational stories from representatives of seven different types of disabilities. Throughout the project, the 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 collaborated in writing the storylines, scripts, and production to ensure the stories meet the goal of producing inspiring media. These films will be an essential tool in advancing 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 Torsangrasamee 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 emphasise 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: “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 shows that despite differences, with determination, effort, and continuous self-improvement, one can overcome limitations and achieve success through 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 has persevered despite obstacles following an accident. He continues to travel by wheelchair and works as an inspirational speaker. The story’s inspirational concept highlights that physical disabilities are not limitations to pursuing dreams. With strong determination and a changed perspective, one can live fully 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 owner of the Facebook page “Run Healing the Heart.” She uses running as a means to heal from depression and passes on encouragement to others facing hardships. The story’s inspirational concept emphasises the importance of cooperation between individuals and society in creating an environment conducive to mental healing and mutual support.
Story 5: “Happy Memory”
This story features Mr Phurivat Amornpeer (Base), a person with a learning disability who uses his own experience to support 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 practising 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 help create a more equitable world for all.
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 emphasises that although communication languages may differ, with an open heart to listen, nothing stands in the way. Opportunities from society can transform lives and empower people to live happily.
The “7 INSPIRATIONS (Phase 3)” project has also selected a theme song to accompany the films – a piece 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 legendary producer Professor Solas Poonkabutr. The honorary singers include Jiew Sakunchai Plianram (Jiew the Voice); Mental – Taweerat Kamsena (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 harnessing 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 from the project at:
- YouTube: Inspirations
- Facebook: Inspirations
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