Photo exhibit is built by youths, for youths
By Melina Giubilaro, Communications Specialist
A new virtual art gallery is bringing the voices and visions of youths with physical disabilities into focus—one image at a time. Led by staff at Lethbridge-Layton-Mackay Rehabilitation Centre (LLMRC), it’s more than an exhibit—it’s a digital canvas for self-expression, empowerment and connection.
In 2019, a small team at LLMRC began exploring how photography could help young people with disabilities to convey experiences that are often difficult to put into words. Using a method called PhotoVoice, participants were invited to capture images that reflected their lives and to share personal narratives through visual storytelling.
“These youths don’t always feel like they have a voice or place to express themselves,” says Chantal Robillard, Clinical Research Coordinator in Rehabilitation in the Directorate of Academic Affairs and Research Ethics, who led the project. “This gave them one—in an impactful way through photographs.”
The images, taken on smart phones by youths aged 15 to 25, are raw and deeply personal. Some capture moments of freedom; others reflect struggles with accessibility, identity or belonging.
Together, they form a powerful statement: We are here, we have something to say, and we are more than our diagnoses.
The method became a powerful tool—not only for creativity, but also for bridging communication gaps. Whether related to independence, friendships, school, identity or well-being, each photo tells a story.
To ensure full accessibility, including for the visually and hearing impaired, the exhibit includes audio narrations and is available in both French and English. Visitors can explore the exhibit visually, listen to personal testimonials, or do both.
For programs under the umbrella of MAB’s transitional care services, geared to youths shifting into adulthood, photography was integrated into therapeutic sessions to explore mental well-being in a new way.
“It gave the youths a voice they didn’t know they had. It helped us explore their mental well-being in a different way.”
Occupational Therapist Julien Auer-Deschamps
Unlike traditional gallery setups, this exhibit, titled #EACAFAM, was actively shaped by the youths. #EACAFAM stands for “Our heart is our lifeline. We Express ourselves, remain Active with Cooking and physical activities, to become Autonomous with the support of our FAMily.”
They selected the virtual room, chose the colours of the walls and floors, and helped design the overall ambiance, making it a truly collaborative and empowering experience.
“We expected them to naturally take selfies or share photos like most people their age but that wasn’t the case,” says Ms. Robillard. “Many needed encouragement. The photo-taking process itself became an act of reflection and growth.”
Among the team members who brought the gallery to life is Abitha Jeyaratnam, a 19-year-old client who also interned at LLMRC for the project. Diagnosed with encephalopathy with diplegia, a condition that leads to paralysis or weakness in the legs, Ms. Jeyaratnam underwent surgery as a teen and now walks with greater ease, using a walker in some settings.
In addition to translating exhibit text and contributing to the gallery’s design, Ms. Jeyaratnam brought lived experience and digital skills to the project. Her internship wasn’t just a role—it was an embodiment of the exhibit’s message: Youths with disabilities have capabilities, creativity and potential.
“I want to become a psychologist,” Ms. Jeyaratnam says. “This experience gave me tools, but it also gave me hope. And I hope others see that, too.”
The virtual format makes the exhibit accessible and flexible, able to reach parents, educators, clinicians and youths, wherever they are—especially those who might never walk into a conventional gallery.
“It removes barriers. This means more people can experience what these youths have to say.”
Chantal Robillard
The exhibit was set up by a team of researchers and the LLMRC’s TranXition program. The launch was made possible through activities for 25th anniversary of the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal (CRIR). The exhibit will be on display throughout the year as part of a larger campaign to raise awareness of accessibility, youth potential and community-based rehabilitation.
“Making a transition into adulthood is never easy,” says Mr.Auer-Deschamps. “When you have a disability, there are even more obstacles. But what this exhibit shows is that it’s possible to study, to travel, to dream. These youths are not defined by their disabilities. They’re individuals with stories to tell and futures to shape.”
The exhibition was made possible through the support of the CRIR, the Habilitas Foundation and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.