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A groundbreaking exhibition launching in Valletta this month is set to challenge societal ex- pectations of women navigating life with ADHD. Opening on 25 September at Studio C, Spaz- ju Kreattiv, Framed in Focus: ADHD Women brings the inter- nal landscapes of ten women in- to the public eye through a blend of raw photography, academic research, and public dialogue. The initiative is a collabora- tive research partnership be- tween the University of Malta and ADHD Malta. It addresses a critical, historical gender im- balance in medical research, where the experiences of wom- en with ADHD have long been overlooked. To capture their au- thentic, day-to-day realities, the women were given disposable cameras to take unedited pho- tographs, documenting what it truly means to navigate a world that demands constant organi- zation and composure. Built on a legacy of empower- ment At the heart of this project is a research methodology known as Photovoice. Originally de- veloped in the early 1990s, this approach was first used to help women in China's Yunnan prov- ince visually document their daily struggles with health and family. Photovoice puts cameras directly into the hands of mar- ginalised communities, empow- ering them to tell their own sto- ries through images. By using this method, the ten participants are no longer just passive subjects being studied by academics. Instead, they act as active co-researchers who are deeply involved in every stage of the project—from the ini- tial planning and photography to the analysis and final public presentation. This innovative approach represents a powerful shift in how academic research operates, stepping off the uni- versity campus and into the community to make knowledge accessible to everyone. Aligning with global mental health movements Running until 1 November, the exhibition's timing coin- cides perfectly with October's International ADHD Aware- ness Month. The project also mirrors the World Health Or- ganization's 2026 World Mental Health Day theme, "Lived expe- riences heard: real voices, real change." This global campaign champions the idea that first- hand experience is its own form of expertise, advocating for neu- rodivergent individuals to have a direct say in the policies and decisions that govern their lives. Rather than offering a static gallery experience, Framed in Focus is designed to evolve. Vis- itors are invited to leave their own feedback, reflections, and questions in a dedicated gallery space, directly contributing to the ongoing development of the exhibition. A Dynamic public and educa- tional programme The project features a diverse lineup of interactive events and workshops (open to anyone aged 14 and over, with limited spots available): • 7 October: A creative session focused on crafting personal stimming accessories. • 13 October: Bridging the Gap: Clinical Insights and Lived Experience of ADHD. This hy- brid public discussion features adult ADHD specialist Dr Dora Wynchank alongside local psy- chiatrists and women with lived ADHD experience. The event will be livestreamed internation- ally by ADHD Europe. • 22 October: A dedicated workshop centred on creative expression. • 28 October: A "Human Li- brary" event, offering the public a unique opportunity to engage in open dialogue with women who have lived ADHD experi- ence. The project is also actively pushing for systemic change. Closed viewings have been or- ganised specifically for policy- makers, dignitaries, educators, and members of the press to bring these vital perspectives into decision-making spaces. Additionally, local schools are invited to attend morning ses- sions, turning the exhibition into an educational tool for students to explore neurodiversity, inclu- sion, and active citizenship. Framed in Focus: ADHD Women challenges the public to look past stereotypes and re- consider how Malta can foster a more inclusive environment for different minds. The exhibition runs from 25 September to 1 No- vember 2026 at Studio C, Spazju Kreattiv, Valletta. The project is supported by APS Bank plc, whose sponsorship is helping make this wider programme of engagement possible. For full information about the exhibition, events and regis- tration, visit: Framed in Focus: ADHD Women — Spazju Kreat- tiv GENERAL LITERATURE – A book of short stories by Leonard Schembri - "The unfolding story of the Holy Grail & other stories" available from all Agenda book- shops and outlets. HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION MARSALFORN, Gozo - holiday apartments for short or long lets with magnificent sea-views. Call 21556021, 27556021, 79426883 SERVICES PLASTERING & RENOVATIONS - For all type of plastering and renovation call Matthew on 79727779 or send a message on fb: MA Plastering & Renovations. VACANCIES LABOURER - Grixti Properties Ltd, San Gwann currently have full-time vacancies for a construc- tion labourer. Applicants must have experience, fluently speak Maltese & Syrian. Hourly rate Eur6.00. Interested applicants may send e-mail to: secretary@a-plusplus.eu. OFFICE CLERK - Sunny El-Abdullah Company Limited is seeking an experienced Office Clerk to join its team on a full-time basis. Applicants must have previous office experience and be fluent in English, Arabic, and Filipino. Hourly rate: €5.75. Interested applicants are invited to send their CV by email to: sunnyabdilla@yahoo.com CLASSIFIEDS info@mediatoday.com.mt 8 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 20 SEPTEMBER 2026 ART & CLASSIFIEDS Framed in Focus: ADHD Women - Giving lived ADHD experience a voice