A group photo featuring APCD speakers, SWU lecturers, and enthusiastic 3rd-year students from the International College for Sustainability Studies.

Ms. Siriporn Praserdchat, Logistics Officer, led an interactive session, highlighting the steps towards implementing accessible tourism for all.

Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen, Chief of Networking & Collaboration, discussed the crucial difference between equity and equality in creating inclusive societies.

A group photo featuring participants, organizers, and workshop facilitators.

Ms. Min Kyong Kim delivered a welcome remark at the opening program.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director, APCD delivered a welcome remark at the opening program.

Mrs. Haruthai Sirisinudomkijtong, Director of Strategy and Planning Division, DEP shared the project working process and delivered the opening remarks.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, APCD Community Development Manager discussed the project's background, goals, and achievements.

Mr. Piroon Laismit during a panel discussion, outlined plans for UN CRPD activities.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Theeraphong Bualar presented data on CRPD implementation in Thailand.

The engagement of a diverse group of over a hundred stakeholders in the Awareness Raising event.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp facilitated the second day of the workshop, including summarizing and concluding the workshop.

Active participants work together with working group members during the workshop.

Group photos of participants facilitators and working group members on the post-brainstorming session.

Group photo of international students, lecturer, and APCD staff.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, Manager of Community Development Department greeted the international visitors, preparing them for a day of insightful learning.

The students observed the work environment at 60+ Plus Bakery & Cafe, where people with disabilities are trained, and took group photos.

Mr. Watcharapol Cheungcharoen explained the mission and vision of the APCD together with active interaction and learning of the students.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Pakaratee Chaiyawat was impressed and thanked APCD for their experience sharing on disability development presented gifts to APCD and took group photo.

Group photo of participants and organizers at the 4th Key Stakeholders' Meeting.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, APCD Executive Director delivered the welcoming remarks.

Dr. Kenji Kuno, JICA Advisor on Disability and Development, presented the implementation, outputs, impact, lessons learned, recommendations, and future of the intensive cooperation between APCD and JICA, reflecting the steps towards more inclusive development for persons with disabilities in AP countries.

Ms. Yuki Kitagawa, Vice Representative of the JICA Thailand Office, shared her gratitude for the program's achievements by acknowledging the significant results of the collaborative efforts between APCD and JICA.

Ms. Aiko Akiyama from SDD-ESCAP shared about a successful collaboration in organizing a Disability-inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DiDRR) side event by the shared efforts of ESCAP, JICA, and APCD in promoting inclusive development across the Asia-Pacific region from the 8^th session of the committee on Social Development

Stakeholders engaged in discussions on the future of the program.

APCD staff took a group photo together with speakers during the Eighth session.

Overview of the conference room and panelist.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, Community Development Manager facilitated the side event Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DIDRR) in Asia and the Pacific: Leaving No One Behind in our Efforts.

Persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups are at higher risk of death, injury and additional impairments, because of exclusion from disaster risk reduction policies, plans and programs.

A group photo was taken to commemorate the participation of attendees and organizers in the stakeholder meeting

Mr. Piroon Laismit, APCD Executive Director, welcomed delegates from Heralbony, JICA Headquarters, JICA Thailand, and representative participants from government sector, Organization of Persons with Disabilities, and other stakeholders.

Mr. Takaya Matsuda, Co-CEO of HERALBONY introduced the company’s work, story, and achievements with the key stakeholders from Thailand.

Mr. Kaoru Iga, The disabled Japanese artist introduced his artwork and impressed participants.

Participants engaged in productive discussions regarding opportunities for collaboration in promoting art talents by individuals with disabilities in Thailand and Japan.

The group photo was taken with representatives from HERALBONY, JICA, and APCD after the fruitful discussion about future collaboration on October 7, 2024, at APCD administration building.

In a heartwarming display of international cooperation and inclusivity, representatives from The Rockefeller Foundation and the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA) came together today for a special Pastry Baking workshop at the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) in Bangkok.

The event, which took place on October 10, 2024, brought together distinguished guests from both organizations, showcasing their commitment to fostering skills development and empowerment for people with disabilities.

Key Attendees

The Rockefeller Foundation was represented by:

1. Ms. Deepali Khanna, Vice President, Asia Regional Office
2. Mr. Eric Arndt, Director, Asia Regional Office
3. Ms. Busaba Tejagupta, Director of Operations & Grants Management
4. Ms. Pacharin Sinlawan, Executive Assistant
5. Ms. Woralac Rodsum-ang, Executive Assistant
6. Ms. Ananyaporn Doungnakorn, Financial Analyst
7. Mr. Sarawut Kanwicha, Team Coordinator
8. Mr. Atiroot Kulruan, Administrative Assistant

TICA's delegation included:

1. Mrs. Arunee Hiam, Deputy Director-General
2. Mr. Mongkol Siwaluk, First Secretary (Diplomatic Officer)
3. Ms. Arunee Lakkham, Project Coordination Officer
4. Ms. Duangkamol Markkaew, Project Coordination Officer

Event Highlights

The day began with a warm welcome from APCD, followed by inspiring opening remarks from Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, and Ms. Deepali Khanna of The Rockefeller Foundation. The main event was a hands-on Pastry Baking Workshop, where participants had the opportunity to learn and practice baking skills.

A tour of the 60+ Plus Bakery & Chocolate Café provided insights into sustainable employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The event culminated in a heartwarming gesture as the freshly baked pastries were donated to the Rajvithi Home for Girls, embodying the spirit of community service.

This collaborative effort between The Rockefeller Foundation, TICA, and APCD demonstrates a shared vision for an inclusive society where skills development knows no boundaries. It serves as a shining example of how international cooperation can create meaningful impact at the grassroots level.

As the world moves towards more inclusive practices, events like these pave the way for a future where everyone, regardless of ability, can contribute their talents and skills to society.

80 Participants attended the Seminar conducted by the Independent Living Foundation (ILF) in collaboration with Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP).

APCD representative shared his experiences and insight regards Independent Living movement in Thailand.

Group Photo of all attendees.

Ms. Supaanong (NuNu) Panyasirimongkol, APCD Staff with autism and Networking & Collaboration Officer, as opening speaker, give a talk on inclusive workspaces system

Ms. NuNu with Max Simpson, CEO of Neurodiversity at Work Research Centre (NWRC) and Steps.