Global Ability Photography Challenge 2026 Ahmedabad Inspires
Global Ability Photography Challenge 2026 Celebrates Powerful Human Stories
Adani Partners Youth4Jobs for Global Ability Photography Challenge 2026
NotJustArt, a venture of Youth4Jobs, has joined hands with Adani GreenXTalks to launch the 5th edition of the Global Ability Photography Challenge (GAPC) 2026. This initiative is known as India’s largest inclusive photography challenge, specially created for persons with disabilities. The competition is open to participants across the world and is free to enter, making it accessible to many who may not usually get such opportunities.
Over the years, the Global Ability Photography Challenge has quietly grown into something much bigger than just a contest. It has become a strong platform for inclusion and creative expression. In the past four editions, it has reached more than 8 million people globally and inspired over 50,000 participants. Entries have come from more than 30 countries, showing how powerful and universal storytelling through images can be. Last year, the exhibition travelled to countries like Japan and Dubai, giving global exposure to talented photographers who often remain unseen.
Photography has long been seen as a powerful way to tell stories without words. For persons with disabilities, it becomes even more meaningful. Many studies and reports from global disability organisations highlight how creative platforms help build confidence, independence and social acceptance. The GAPC taps into this idea by giving photographers a stage where their work speaks for them, not their limitations.
The competition invites both amateur and professional photographers with disabilities to share their work. The focus is simple yet deep, to show real-life experiences, emotions and perspectives. These are stories that often go unnoticed in mainstream media. By bringing them forward, GAPC is helping change how society looks at disability. It moves the conversation from sympathy to strength and creativity.
Meera Shenoy, Founder and CEO of Youth4Jobs Foundation, shared a strong message. She said that when given the right platform, people with disabilities do not just take part, they lead. This reflects a wider shift seen in many parts of the world, where inclusion is no longer seen as charity but as equal participation. Many past winners of the challenge have gone on to build careers, win global recognition and inspire others in their communities.
Jeet Adani, Director of Adani Airports Holdings Ltd, also spoke about the importance of the initiative. He highlighted that photography is one of the most universal forms of expression. It cuts across language, culture and background. By supporting this challenge, the aim is to bring together talented individuals from across the globe and celebrate their creativity. His statement also reflects how large corporate groups are now playing a role in social impact projects, especially in areas like inclusion and accessibility.
The awards for the competition are quite significant. The first prize is ₹5,00,000, followed by ₹3,00,000 for second place and ₹2,00,000 for third. Participants ranking from fourth to tenth will receive ₹1,00,000 each. Such prize money is not just a reward but also support for artists who may need resources to continue their creative journey.
The top 20 entries will be showcased in a curated exhibition, which is an important opportunity for visibility. Exhibitions like these often open doors to galleries, collaborations and even commercial projects. The top 10 winners will receive special trophies designed by well-known product designer Michael Foley, adding a unique touch to the recognition. Every participant will also receive a certificate, ensuring that everyone’s effort is acknowledged.
The award ceremony and exhibition are scheduled for 24 June 2026 in Ahmedabad. For selected Indian winners and one international participant, travel and accommodation will be fully covered. This ensures that financial limits do not stop anyone from being part of the final celebration.
In today’s world, where visual content is everywhere, platforms like GAPC remind us that real stories still matter. They bring forward voices that are often unheard and show that talent exists everywhere, waiting for the right opportunity. The challenge is not just about photography, but about changing mindsets and building a more inclusive society.