Framing futures: one photographer's journey of hope

Liu likes sharing posts about his welfare activities on social media, and whenever he does, he receives numerous supportive messages and even financial contributions from the younger generation in China. Interestingly, even if some of them are unfamiliar with Laos, they still want to help.

"One possible reason, I think, is that many young people today are under so much pressure that they easily feel isolated and purposeless," Liu said. "When they realize they can make a difference for others, their lives become about more than just themselves — they're responding to a distant cry for help."

In August 2023, Liu and China Southern Power Grid Company collaborated on a new welfare initiative called Lights of Hope. Through this program, the disabled children at Hands of Hope had the opportunity to participate in professional painting classes at least once a week.

Three months later, the children completed a series of artworks. Liu was amazed by their extraordinary creativity, so he decided to organize a special exhibition for these young artists, marking their first-ever exhibition.

Liu himself underwent a serious leg surgery once, so he understands what disabled children go through and how they feel when they face prejudices from others. He was lucky at the time to have the support from his mother, friends, and children so that he could walk out of that challenging and dark period.

"I want these local children to see — like I did — that even if you were born into a dark house, there's someone out there holding a small hammer to break open the rusty locks and open the window to let the light in," he said.

Ever since Liu arrived in Laos at the age of 15, he has fallen in love with the country and its people. Currently, about 60 percent of his daily work is dedicated to welfare projects, with his responsibilities including organizing, planning, communicating, and implementing them.

Liu aims to expand these projects to reach more people and regions in the coming years.

"I hope that one day, even if I'm no longer in Laos, those I've helped will continue to assist others in need, passing on hope, love, and kindness. This is my biggest wish," he said.