Organizer Information
Not Just Art (NJA) is a global initiative under the Youth4Jobs Foundation, one of South Asia’s leading organizations dedicated to education, skill development, and employment for persons with disabilities (PwDs). Youth4Jobs has built an extensive ecosystem by collaborating with governments, corporations, NGOs, and academic institutions to empower youth with disabilities and integrate them into the workforce.
As part of this broader mission, Not Just Art focuses specifically on promoting artistic talent among persons with disabilities, particularly in Photography and Visual Arts. Through curated platforms, exhibitions, and global initiatives, NJA challenges societal perceptions of disability by highlighting creativity, resilience, and unique perspectives. Its flagship initiative, the Global Ability Photography Challenge (GAPC), has evolved into an international movement spanning over 18 countries, supported by partners such as UNESCO.
Title & Description
Global Ability Photography Challenge 2026 (5th Edition)
The Global Ability Photography Challenge (GAPC) 2026 is an international Photography Competition exclusively designed for persons with disabilities. Organized by Not Just Art and Youth4Jobs, this initiative provides a global platform for artists to showcase their creative vision and redefine narratives around disability through powerful visual storytelling.
This open call invites participants to submit up to three original photographs that capture personal perspectives, lived experiences, and diverse narratives. While there is no fixed theme, submissions that reflect inclusion, dignity, resilience, and everyday life are strongly encouraged. The challenge emphasizes photography as a universal language capable of transcending barriers and reshaping societal attitudes.
More than a Competition, GAPC is positioned as a social and cultural movement—one that amplifies underrepresented voices and creates pathways for recognition, professional growth, and even livelihood opportunities. Selected works will be featured in exhibitions, media campaigns, and global showcases, offering participants meaningful exposure within the international Art ecosystem.
Categories
- Photography
- Visual Arts
- Digital
Eligibility
- Open internationally to persons with disabilities only
- Open to all experience levels (emerging and professional photographers)
- Individuals only (must be the original creator of submitted work)
- No age restriction specified
Program Benefits & Awards
- Total पुरस्कार pool of ₹17,00,000
- 1st Prize: ₹5,00,000
- 2nd Prize: ₹3,00,000
- 3rd Prize: ₹2,00,000
- 4th–10th Prizes: ₹1,00,000 each
- Special trophies designed by renowned designer Michael Foley for top winners
- Certificates were awarded to all participants
- Inclusion in a curated Exhibition featuring the top 20 photographers
- Award ceremony on June 24, 2026
- Sponsored travel and accommodation for selected Indian winners and one international winner
- Global media exposure and participation in international campaigns
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Up to three original photographs
- JPEG (.jpg) format in RGB color mode
- Maximum 2000 pixels on the longest side
- Minimum file size of 4 MB
- No watermarks or identifying marks
- Images must be original and owned by the applicant
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 25 May 2026
- Award Ceremony: 24 June 2026
Location
India
Additional Details
- Each participant may submit a maximum of three photographs
- Moderate digital editing (brightness, contrast, color correction) is allowed, but images must remain authentic
- Copyright remains with the photographer; however, submitted works may be used for promotional purposes with credit
- Entries must comply strictly with technical and ethical guidelines
- The organizer reserves the right to modify or suspend the Competition if necessary
- Participants are responsible for securing permissions for any identifiable individuals in their photographs