Bodybuilder Tamale Safalu trains in front of his home
Kampala, Uganda
2025
Giclée print on Hahnemühle FineArt Pearl paper.
Size 30x20 cm without white border.
For this photo Marijn received a 2025 World Press Photo of the year in the category Singles Africa.
In 2020, competitive bodybuilder Tamale Safalu's life changed dramatically when he lost his leg after a terrible motorcycle accident. Despite the physical and emotional challenges, Safalu committed to rehabilitation and returned to the sport he loved, becoming the first disabled athlete in Uganda to compete against able-bodied athletes in a bodybuilding competition.
80% of all people with disabilities in the world live in developing countries, Uganda amongst them. In many Eastern and southern African countries people with disabilities are discriminated against. Today, Safalu’s goal is to become the first champion with a disability to win the prestigious Arnold Classic. For Safalu, competing as an athlete with a disability is not only about achieving personal goals, but also changing perceptions, raising self-esteem, combating stigma, and inspiring others around the world: “By competing as a bodybuilder on stage, I want to encourage other people with disabilities to recognize their own talents and never put their heads down.” His strength and determination in the face of adversity challenges stereotypes and serves as an inspiration to people from all walks of life.
Marijn Fidder (b. 1997) is a Dutch documentary photographer who focuses on current affairs and contemporary social issues. She uses photography to speak on behalf of the voiceless, and to advocate for the rights of all who are vulnerable. Her work has appeared in National Geographic Netherlands, CNN Style, NRC Handelsblad, Het Financieele Dagblad, Evangelische Omroep, GUP New Talent and ZEIT Magazin, among others.
Her work has received multiple awards, including from the Zilveren Camera and the Global Peace Photo Award. Based in the Netherlands, Fidder has worked for many years in Uganda, researching disability rights in the country.
Marijn Fidder
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Product info
Bodybuilder Tamale Safalu traint voor zijn huis
Kampala, Oeganda
2025Giclée print op Hahnemühle FineArt Pearl papier.
Formaat 30x20 cm zonder witrand.