16/06/2026
People with disabilities have a name—just like everyone else. So, let’s call people by their names, not by their disability.
Recently, Danny Toptop (a CARE Vanuatu Young Men Initiative alum) joined other CARE program alumni to visit Vanuatu Paralympic athletes at Korman Stadium, Rainbow Theatre at Wan Smol Bag, and the Vanuatu Society for People with Disabilities. They also took part in a workshop to learn about different types of disabilities.
From the visit, Danny shared a simple but powerful lesson that many of us still overlook:
“We must address people respectfully and not call them names because of their disabilities. We all have a name—they have a name just like every one of us. Sometimes when we use words that are not acceptable to them, it can hurt them, even if we think it’s okay.”
He said he was moved by people’s stories—and inspired by what they can do.
“I learned that people with disabilities can do the same things as anyone else. They are confident. They can stand up in public and speak. It reminded me that we should not focus on what someone cannot do, but on their abilities and strengths.”
“In many communities, people with disabilities are sometimes kept at home because families feel ashamed or fear what others will say. There are also harmful beliefs that blame parents for a child’s disability. But this is not true. Every child is a gift from God, and no one should be judged or hidden away.”
“Too often we ignore people with disabilities, but they have the same rights as everyone else. They contribute to our communities and our economy. Some have represented Vanuatu in the Paralympics and in regional and international competitions—traveling as far as Dubai.”
“Before, I used to think they couldn’t do it. But after listening and learning, I know they can do so much—some play sports, some sing, and many lead in their own way. My takeaway is to bring this message back to my community and family: there is no difference—everyone is equal. Let’s respect people with disabilities, include them, and never look down on them.”
Let’s choose respect, inclusion, and dignity—every day.
Mary Estelle Mahuk from the Vanuatu Paralympics Committee said, “I am here to support para-athletes because I want to help them. I am happy to train them, and some have gone on to become national champions in the competitions they entered. I have been working with them for a long time. One para javelin athlete won an international competition. I also supported an athlete in Tanna who is blind and who took part in an international track event and won.”
This learning experience is supported by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Australian High Commission, Vanuatu
Vanuatu Society for People with Disability
Vanuatu Paralympic Committee
