The event was part of the 2026 National Para Natuh Pickleball Series, honouring outstanding works reflecting the resilience and aspirations of people with disabilities, while spreading the spirit of inclusion and the human values of sport.
After more than one month of launching, the competitions attracted around 100 journalists, reporters and photographers nationwide, with more than 300 entries. The works focused on stories of overcoming difficulties, determination and the desire of people with disabilities to affirm themselves through inclusive sport.
A common feature of many entries was their focus on ordinary but meaningful stories rather than achievements or unusual circumstances. They portrayed athletes persevering in training, family members quietly accompanying them and the simple joy of competing under equal conditions. These authentic moments created a strong emotional impact on viewers and readers.
In the photography category, many works captured emotional moments on the court. Determined eyes, encouraging handshakes and smiles after completing a match conveyed messages of resilience, confidence and the aspiration for inclusion.
At the award ceremony, the organisers presented a total of 35 prizes to 40 authors and groups of authors with outstanding works. For the Para Natuh Journalism Awards “The Voice of Inclusion”, the organisers presented two first prizes, four second prizes, three third prizes and 11 consolation prizes across print, online newspaper, radio and television categories. In the Para Natuh Photography Awards “Moments of Inclusion”, one first prize, two second prizes, three third prizes and nine consolation prizes were awarded.
According to Nguyen Thi Thu Thuy, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of Natuh Investment Joint Stock Company and Head of the Organising Committee,
whether in written articles, reports or photographic works, all entries conveyed positive messages. Many works moved even the programme organisers themselves when they read, listened to or viewed them.
One of the highlights of the 2026 National Para Natuh Pickleball Series was the inclusive competition model bringing together athletes with disabilities and non-disabled athletes. This approach created many new experiences for participants.
Speaker Nguyen Son Lam said he felt happy to participate for the first time in a large-scale tournament as an athlete. What mattered most, he said, was that athletes competed in a professional environment with clear rules and respect for everyone.
Dang Ngoc Chien, Head of the Khat Vong Sports Club, said the inclusive competition model had created many positive values. According to him, when people with disabilities and non-disabled people compete and cooperate towards common goals, barriers are gradually narrowed. “When given opportunities, people with disabilities can confidently affirm their value and contribute to society,” Chien said.
In addition to the award ceremony, the programme also organised a tree-planting activity in response to World Environment Day (June 5) at Quynh Son Kindergarten and Vinh Nghiem Pagoda. More than 100 trees were planted with the participation of local leaders, athletes, media agencies, photographers and supporting organisations.
As the competitions concluded, the honoured works left a meaningful impression of resilience, aspiration and the spirit of inclusion. This was also the message that the 2026 National Para Natuh Pickleball Series aimed to spread: “Inclusion is not only about support – Inclusion means creating value together.”
