When I think about “Inland,” I think not only of a geographical place, but also of people who are often unseen in our daily life.

In Kunming, Yunnan Province, I had the opportunity to take part in a community-based rehabilitation project with a local partner. The project serves people with psychosocial disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and other persons with disabilities. It includes expressive art activities, pre-employment training, supported employment services, as well as vocational rehabilitation workshops, which provide sheltered and transitional work training and participation opportunities for service users.

During this time, I came to understand that rehabilitation is not just about medical treatment or a once-off activity bringing about immediate, dramatic change. More often, it is a gradual process of rebuilding the rhythm of daily life, self-expression, confidence, and connection with others.

During the music activities, some participants began by sitting quietly, but gradually joined in following the rhythm. In the painting and batik art sessions, some needed step-by-step guidance from the instructor, but were still able to complete their own creations. For those who found it difficult to express themselves verbally, music, colours, patterns, and handcraft became an alternative means of expression.

The project also helps participants to prepare for work. Through pre-employment training, supported employment, and vocational rehabilitation workshops, participants practised maintaining focus, following simple work procedures, and experienced what it means to complete a task. For many of them, reintegrating back into society is not a single big step, but a series of small attempts.

What impressed me most were these quiet changes: participants willing to give something a try, someone staying longer in an activity, and someone sharing their work with others. These actions may seem small, but they are actually very meaningful.

For me, going “Inland” means drawing closer — stepping into residential communities, getting closer to people who are often overlooked, and walking patiently with them as they move forward step by step.