RUHMA UKAYE
64W Photojournalism Spéos 2022-2024
“Écoutez-moi”
“Je
ne suis pas mal élevé. Je suis autiste. Et moi aussi je vous trouve bizarre..”
“I am not ill-mannered. I am autistic. And I find you just as strange..”
Supported by ‘Le Silence des Justes’, an association for autistic children and adults, this documentary project showcases neurodivergent individuals aged 18-65 who are on Level 2 and Level 3 of Autism Spectrum Disorder, which are considered more severe and less autonomous. Their diverse traits, from a passion for music to unique fascinations, are celebrated with these photographic memoirs. They have social and communication difficulties when compared to an average individual, and yet they communicate in their distinctive ways and demonstrate remarkable abilities. Many have found solace within the association, often distant from their families.
France’s motto, Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité, embodies a powerful ideal of equality. Even in 2024, autistic individuals struggle with limited access to education, employment, and healthcare. Whether or not you see autism as a disability or a
-Guylène Dhormes
difference - or both simultaneously, a kind of autistic Schrödinger’s Cat - all autistic individuals will at times experience disablement as a result of living in a non-autistic world. There is no cure for autism.
The project is inspired by my cousin, Sana, who lives with autism and the complexities she faces. Witnessing Sana’s journey throughout my life sparked my curiosity and concern, prompting this indepth exploration to illuminate the experiences of individuals on the spectrum around the world. As for France, what can we understand about the cultural differences that affect the people on the spectrum?
Through intimate portraits and narratives, this project seeks to increase understanding and visibility for those living with autism in France. Each image and story is a testament to their resilience and individuality, fostering empathy and appreciation for their journey.
Ruhma Ukaye is an Indian photographer currently based in Paris, specializing in Documentary photography and Photoreportage with a deep desire to showcase the tenacity of the human spirit, celebrating the perseverance and strength of the people. She believes every individual has a unique story to tell, and her goal is to bring those stories to light, helping to build bridges of understanding and empathy between people from all walks of life.
In addition to documentary photography, she also specializes in architecture photography due to her background and passion for architecture. She has been working as an architecture photographer since 2020, utilizing her skills in design principles and spatial understanding to create images that translate spaces into frames.
www.ruhmaukaye.com
ruhmaukaye@gmail.com Instagram