About Me
Hello, my name is Ekapak Winyaphap, but people call me Joe. Currently, I hold two positions - the first being the farm manager of my family's durian farm, and the second as a co-founder of Nasoform, a medical device company specializing in helping children with cleft palate. My life took an unexpected accident five years ago when I had to come to terms with living as a person with a disability in Thailand. While it has not been an easy journey, I never allowed myself to be defeated by depression. Instead, I used my passion for sports, particularly triathlon, to form a team of disabled athletes who have become a source of inspiration for others. Through my experiences, I aim to showcase the presence of disabled individuals in Thai society and demonstrate that a fulfilling life is attainable regardless of one's physical condition. Embracing life as a person with a disability in Thailand presented significant challenges. It was a difficult reality to accept, but I refused to be held back. I knew that I had to rise above my circumstances and strive for a better life. The key to achieving this, for me, was my unwavering dedication to sports, especially triathlon. Turning to triathlon was a turning point in my life. The physical and mental demands of the sport not only helped me stay active and healthy, but it also provided me with a sense of purpose and determination. As I embraced the sport, I realized that I could use it as a platform to inspire others with disabilities to believe in themselves and their capabilities. Fuelled by my passion and desire to make a difference, I decided to create a triathlon team exclusively comprising disabled athletes. The team became a symbol of strength and resilience, breaking barriers in a society where people with disabilities often face limited opportunities. Our journey was not without struggles, but we persisted, overcoming obstacles and disproving societal stereotypes. As our triathlon team continued to grow and make headlines, we became a beacon of hope for others with disabilities across Thailand. People began to see that even with physical limitations, one could lead a fulfilling life and pursue their dreams. Through media coverage and public events, we aimed to bring attention to the presence of disabled individuals in society, showing that they too have valuable contributions to make. My involvement with Nasoform, the medical device company, also plays a crucial role in my advocacy. Co-founding Nasoform gave me the opportunity to contribute directly to the welfare of children with cleft palate, helping them lead healthier lives and gain access to the treatment they deserve. By combining my passion for sports and my commitment to empowering others, I have been able to create a profound impact on society. My journey as Joe the farm manager, co-founder of Nasoform and leader of a disabled triathlon team, serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. Through my experiences, I hope to show the people of Thailand that disabled individuals have dreams, talents, and aspirations that can contribute positively to society. By breaking societal norms and embracing our differences, we can build a more inclusive and compassionate nation, where everyone has an equal opportunity to lead a fulfilling life. My mission is to inspire others to believe in themselves, defy limitations, and never give up on their dreams, no matter the obstacles they may face. Together, we can foster a society that celebrates diversity and empowers all its members to shine brightly.