Photography, Sports & Art and Handicap united!
about theproject
In the realms of photography, sports, and art, uniqueness is born through shared experiences. A platform is being created for children like Ella (a “Zebear” child with the rare KAT6A gene mutation), one that tells their stories to get support and spread awarness.
Visibility of rare diseases saves lives.
There are around 7,000 rare diseases worldwide. Especially today – in times where AI can shorten diagnostic paths and social media can transmit knowledge instantly – time must be used to inform, educate, and transform lives in a positive way.
Photographers, artists and athletes, all contribute to help children like Ella, who live with genetic conditions or other disabilities.
Through connection, the unseen become visible.
In doing so, they offer courage, recognition and show the world that:
“Every person is special, every person is different and no person is lesser.”
They should know: They are not alone!
Ingrid Gerencser (GEPA-pictures)
Andreas Pranter with Ella
Ella with Sara De Blue
Benjamin Karl with Ella
The athlete creates the story through achievement.
The photographer captures the moment and gives it presence.
The artist brings attention through vision and expression.
The children receive a part of their strength and are truly seen.
As a former sports photographer, I’ve spent years documenting people in exceptional circumstances across the globe – not only through my lens, but with respect and an open heart.
Today, I dedicate that experience to a very special project, using the power of photography to make their stories visible.
My goal is to give overlooked young people a voice – with sensitivity, honesty and dignity. With every image, I strive not only to document, but to build bridges: between those affected and the wider world, between pain and hope.
„All for one!“
So that no one stands alone, but we move forward together.
Guardian Angel by Alois Fasching, the Zebear, and many more symbols inspire belief in this project.
Give your all or give nothing! Only those who give what they can have truly tried – and can be proud. Even if you don’t win, you’ve conquered yourself.
(Andreas Pranter)
01.05.1994, Imola: Ayrton Senna.
Angel: Hans Salcher.
01.05.1994, Imola: Ayrton Senna.
Angel: Hans Salcher.
The sweeping brushstroke can be seen as a racetrack. The cross it forms symbolizes the tragic moment – and at the same time, the angel rising into heaven.
Photos: Thomas Guggenberger.
Senna & the Angel: Hans Salcher.
The glowing red brake discs on Ayrton Senna’s car and the red wheels in Hans Salcher’s painting form an artistic connection. The work shows Senna and the angel floating among the spectators.
Photograph: Thomas Guggenberger
Artist: Hans Salcher and the Zebear
19.02.2021 Sotschi, (Olympische Winterspiele/ Benjamin Karl AUT). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
17.03.2019 Andorra, (World Cup Final / Mikaela Shiffrin USA). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
03.07.2017, Wattens, (Swarovski, Kristallwelten/ Stefan Kraft AUT). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
11.11.2017 Milan, (FIS World Cup, Big Air). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
29.12.2018, Bormio, (Super G/ Bostjan Kline SLO). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
06.01.2017 Bischofshofen, (Four Hills Tournament/ Noriaki Kasai JPN). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
26.04.2018 Bodenmais, (Joska/ FIS Weltcup Pokal). Photos: Johann Groder (EXPA)
09.03.2007 Chile, (OESV Training/ Hermann Maier AUT). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
23.01.2020 Kitzbuehel, (World Summit Arnold Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative auction/ Terminator film requisite): Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
26.04.2025 Tristach (Jos Pirkner). Photo: Andreas Pranter
04.02.2013 Schladming, (Eroeffnungsfeier Ski Weltmeisterschaften/ Arnold Schwarzenegger). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
13.04.2025 Tristach, (Jos Pirkner/ Zebaer) . Photo: Andreas Pranter
24.04.2025 Tristach (Peter Gussnig/ Stunt Award). Photo: Andreas Pranter
01.05.1994 Imola, Ayrton Senna. Photo: Thomas Guggenberger
day of birth: March 21th, 1960
nationality: Brazil
F1 Teams: 1984 Toleman, 1985 – 1987 Lotus, 1988 – 1993 McLaren, 1994 Williams
world championship titles: 1988, 1990, 1991
Ayrton Senna competed in a total of 161 Formula 1 races with Toleman, Lotus, McLaren, and Williams. He achieved 41 victories, 65 pole positions, and 19 fastest laps; his greatest successes came with McLaren-Honda.
Senna was a three-time Formula 1 World Champion.
On May 1, 1994, Ayrton Senna tragically died in an accident during the Grand Prix of San Marino, Italy.
01.05.1994 Imola, Ayrton Senna. Photo: Thomas Guggenberger
27.03.2025 Lienz, Senna und der Engel: Hans Salcher
Die rot glühenden Bremsscheiben von Ayrton Sennas Auto und die roten Räder im Bild von Hans Salcher stellen die Verbindung künstlerisch dar. Es zeigt Ayrton Senna und den Engel der in mitten der Zuseher davon schwebt.
Der geschwungene Pinselstrich kann als Rennstrecke gedeutet werden, das Kreuz, das dadurch entsteht, symbolisiert so den tragischen Moment und zeigt zugleich den Engel, der in den Himmel aufsteigt.
Hans Salcher (Engel der Straße)
15.05.2025 Lienz, Senna Engel: Hans Salcher
1994 Imola, Ayrton Senna. Photo: Thomas Guggenberger
23.07.2010 Hockenheim, Bruno Senna (BRA/ Hispania). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas
10.09.2010 Monza, Bruno Senna (BRA/ Hispania). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas
day of birth: October 15th 1983
nationality: Brazil
F1 teams: HRT, Renault and Williams
world championship titles: none
His grandfather forbade him from karting. To protect him from Ayrton Senna’s fate. At some point later, Bruno Senna started again anyway. That’s why his grandfather didn’t speak to him for a long time. The rest of the family handled it better. Also because motorsport is much safer today than it used to be. Bruno Senna says that the great improvements in safety only came after Ayrton’s death.
day of birth: July 3th 1987
nationality: Germany
F1 Teams: BMW Sauber, Toro Rosso, Red Bull, Ferrari, Aston Martin
world championship titles: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
Sebastian Vettel was an active Formula 1 driver from 2007 to 2022. He competed in 299 F1 races. In 2010, he became the second German driver after Michael Schumacher to win the World Championship, he becomes the youngest F1 World Champion of all time.
By successfully defending his title in 2011, 2012, and 2013, he became one of only five drivers to win the World Championship four times in a row. Over the course of his career, he achieved 53 victories, 122 podium finishes, and 57 pole positions.
20.07.2008 Hockenheim, Sebastian Vettel (GER/ Scuderia Toro Rosso). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
14.09.2008 Monza, Sebastian Vettels Vettel (GER/ Scuderia Toro Rosso). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Franz Pammer
day of birth: September, 30th 1997
nationality: Nederlands
F1 teams: 2015–2016 Toro Rosso, seit 2016 Red Bull
world championship titles: 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024
“Finally, I’m the oldest in something for once!”
Quote by Max Verstappen as the first Dutch Grand Prix winner
20.06.2015 Spielberg, Max Verstappen (NED/ Scuderia Toro Rosso). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
Spielberg 01.07.2018, Max Verstappen (NED/ Red Bull Racing). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
26.04.2025 Tristach (Jos Pirkner). Photo: Andreas Pranter
13.04.2025 Tristach, (Jos Pirkner) Photo: Andreas Pranter
14.01.2016 Kitzbuehel, Max Verstappen (NED/ Red Bull Racing). Photo: EXPA / Johann Groder
30.06.2019 Spielberg, Max Verstappen (NED/ Red Bull Racing). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
day of birth: September, 30th 1997
nationality: Nederlands
F1 teams: 2015–2016 Toro Rosso, seit 2016 Red Bull
world championship titles: 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024
„Endlich bin ich einmal in einer Sache der Älteste!“
Zitat Max Verstappen als erster holländischer Grand Prix Sieger
Links oben: 29.06.2018 Spielberg, Box von Max Verstappen (NED/ Red Bull Racing). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
Rechts oben: 30.06.2019 Spielberg, Max Verstappen (NED/ Red Bull Racing). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
Links unten: 28.06.2018 Spielberg, Box von Max Verstappen (NED/ Red Bull Racing). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
Rechts unten: 01.07.2018 Spielberg, Max Verstappen (NED/ Red Bull Racing). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
29.06.2018 Spielberg, Max Verstappen (NED/ Red Bull Racing). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Christian Walgram
10.03.1996 Melbourne, Jos Verstappen (NED/ Tyrrell Ford). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Michael Gloeckner
Max Verstappen
day of birth: September, 30th 1997
nationality: Nederlands
F1 teams: 2015–2016 Toro Rosso, seit 2016 Red Bull
world championship title : 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024
“Finally, I’m the oldest in something for once!”
— Quote by Max Verstappen as the first Dutch Grand Prix winner
Jos Verstappen
day of birth: March 4th 1772
nationality: Nederlands
F1 teams: 1994 Benetton, 1995 Simtek, 1996 Arrows, 1997 Tyrell, 1998 Stewart, 2000 – 2001 Arrows, 2003 Minardi
world championship titles: none
29.04.2012 Hockenheim, Michael Schumacher (GER/ Mercedes GP) und Ralf Schumacher (GER/ Mercedes). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter.
28.06.2019 Spielberg, Mick Schumacher (GER/ Prema). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
Michael Schumacher
day of birth: January, 3th 1969
nationality: Germany
F1 teams: 1991 Jordan, 1991 – 1995 Benetton, 1996 -2006 Ferrari, 2010 – 2012 Mercedes
world championship titles: 1994, 1995, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
It has been 46 years since the introduction of Formula 1. On July 30, 1995, it happened. The first German to win a Formula 1 race in Germany was Michael Schumacher.
Mick Schumacher
day of birth: March, 22th 1999
nationality: Germany
F1 teams: 2021–2022 Haas
world championship titles: none
“I chose the starting number 47 for several reasons, and all of them make it the ideal number for me. My favorite number is 4. I can relate to everything it stands for – responsibility, curiosity, determination.”
Ralf Schumacher
day of birth: June, 30th 1975
nationality: Germany
F1 teams: 1997–1998 Jordan, 1999 – 2004 Williams, 2005 – 2007 Toyota
world championship title : none
“It’s not easy to make a name for yourself.”
“A burned child may also be afraid of water.”
Links oben: 20.06.2015 Spielberg, Niki Lauda (AUT). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
Rechts oben: 21.06.2014 Spielberg, Niki Lauda (AUT). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
Links unten: 20.06.2015 Spielberg, Niki Lauda (AUT). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
Rechts unten: 28.06.2009 Nuernberg, Niki Lauda. Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas
day of birth: February 22th 1949
nationality: Austria
F1 teams: March, BRM, Scuderia Ferrari, Brabham and McLaren
world championship titles: 1975, 1977, 1984
27.05.2011 Monaco, Lewis Hamilton (GBR / McLaren Mercedes). Photo: GEPA-pictures/ Andreas Pranter
20.07.2011 Nuerburgring, Lewis Hamilton (GBR / McLaren Mercedes). Photo: GEPA-pictures/ Andreas Pranter
day of birth: January 7th, 1985
nationality: British
F1 teams: McLaren (2007-2012) and Mercedes (2013-2024). In 2025, he is now driving for Ferrari
world championship titles: 2008, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
It is estimated that he has at least 15 tattoos. Each tattoo holds a personal meaning for him, connected to his life, faith, and career.
22.06.2014 Spielberg, Nico Rosberg (GER/ Mercedes GP). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
22.06.2014 Spielberg, Nico Rosberg (GER/ Mercedes GP). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
day of birth: June, 27th 1985
nationality: Germany
F1 Teams: 2006–2009 Williams, 2010 – 2016 Mercedes
world championship titles: 2016
Nico Rosberg originally wanted to be a professional tennis player. As a teenager, he even made it onto Monaco’s national team. Losing wasn’t exactly his thing — when his dad beat him as a kid, he wouldn’t talk to him for days.
18.07.2008 Hockenheim, Kimi Raikkoenen (FIN/ Ferrari). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
05.06.2010 Erzberg, Kimi Raikkoenen (FIN/ Citroen). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
05.06.2010 Erzberg, Kimi Raikkoenen (FIN/ Citroen). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
day of birth: October 17th 1979
nationality: Finland
F1 Teams: 2001 Sauber, 2002–2006 McLaren, 2007–2009 Ferrari, 2012–2013 Lotus, 2014–2018 Ferrari, 2019–2021 Alfa Romeo
world championship titles: 2007
Kimi Räikkönen competed in Formula 1 from 2001 to 2009 and from 2012 to 2021. His greatest achievement was winning the World Championship title in 2007 for Ferrari.
From 2020 to 2022, Räikkönen held the record for the most races contested, with a total of 349, until he was surpassed by Fernando Alonso in 2022. He won a total of 21 F1 races and achieved 46 fastest laps.
He originally received his nickname “Iceman” from Ron Dennis. Since then, the word has appeared on his helmet and as a tattoo on the Finn’s arm.
26.05.2011 Monaco, Fernando Alonso (ESP/ Ferrari) Foto: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
25.07.2010 Hockenheim, Fernando Alonso (ESP/ Ferrari) Foto: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
day of birth: July, 29th 1981
nationality: Spain
F1 teams: 2001 Minardi, 2003 – 2006 Renault, 2007 McLaren, 2008 – 2009 Renault, 2010 – 2014 Ferrari, 2015 – 2018 McLaren, 2021 – 2022 Alpine, seit 2023 Aston Martin
world championship titles: 2005, 2006
Fernando Alonso is the first Spanish Grand Prix winner and Formula 1 World Champion. Since 2005, he has also been an official UNICEF ambassador for Spain and is committed to the UNICEF project “Education for Development through Sport,” especially in developing countries. Alonso is considered the ideal candidate for this role, as he enjoys great popularity among Spanish youth and is seen as a symbol of reliability and diligence. He shows a strong interest in social projects.
29.06.2018 Spielberg (Schlagschrauber). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
29.06.2018 Spielberg (Pirelli Reifen). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
29.05.2011 Monaco (gefahrene Reifen). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
21.06.2015 Spielberg, Daniil Kvyat (RUS/ Infiniti Red Bull Racing). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
Andreas Gabalier singt 2014 die Österreichische Bundeshymne in Spielberg
22.06.2014 Spielberg, Andreas Gabalier. Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
01.07.2018 Spielberg, Andreas Gabalier. Photo: GEPA pictures/ Daniel Goetzhaber
04.02.2015 Vail-Beaver Creek, Andreas Gabalier. Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
22.06.2014 Spielberg, Andreas Gabalier (Trophäen von Jos Pirkner). Photo: GEPA pictures/ Andreas Pranter
Currently, a photograph by GEPA-pictures – taken by Andreas Pranter for Ella – who has been diagnosed with KAT6A – is being artistically reinterpreted by Wolfgang Mair (artist / “Kowalski” & former national football player). The resulting artwork will be dedicated to the “Zebrakinder” (Zebra Children) and symbolizes strength, solidarity, and hope.
The plan is to personally present the finished artwork to Max Verstappen at the 2025 Formula 1 weekend in Spielberg – ideally by Ella herself.
This symbolic act aims to raise awareness for rare diseases and to show:
Every child deserves visibility, understanding and support.
It brings children like Ella into the public eye, opens doors to aid and support, and encourages other families.
Because: What is visible can be understood – and changed.
05.05.2025 Salzburg, (Wolfgang Mair/ Kowalski). Photo: Andreas Pranter
“Have the courage to try new things and don’t let others discourage you. Stay positive and believe in your dreams.”
Wolfgang Mair/ Kowalski
Hello, my name is Eleanor, but I’m also lovingly called Ella or Elli.
I was born on 20.11.2016 in Graz. Due to my genetic disorder KAT6A, which was diagnosed in 2017, the dream of a “normal” family life my parents had imagined, was turned upside down. They had no idea what they were getting into.
At the time, there were only 116 known cases worldwide, so we received very little information about my potential development or future. So far, I’ve had three surgeries: A fundoplication due to severe reflux, a surgery on my hand because I had a second thumb, which was very bothersome. My most recent surgery was on my heart. Due to digestive issues, I’ve had to visit LKH Graz several times.
At about three years of age, I was finally able to get rid of my feeding tube with the help of NoTube. This was made possible through donations, as the withdrawal process was not supported by Austrians public health insurance (ÖGK). Since then, I’ve been eating puréed food in all variations. In daily life, I am limited by my muscle hypotonia, which means I can only walk short distances. For longer distances, I have a cool wheelchair.
I am also nonverbal and communicate mainly through sign language and my speech computer.
The most important word I can say despite everything is my famous “NO.” Since there is a suspicion of autism, I often experience difficulties in daily life as I become overstimulated quickly. And then the lack of communication often leads to misunderstandings.
Currently, I attend the first inclusive class at the Reininghaus Elementary School in Graz.
I really like it there – especially math is my favorite subject.
In my free time, I help dad with car repairs and I’m very interested in technology and animals (especially unicorns and dogs!).
My aunt, Mag. Monika Rammal, founded the Zebrakinder Assoziation (www.zebrakinder.at) in 2019 for me, so that people who meet me can better understand what it means to have the KAT6A genetic defect. With the help of Miko Mylonas and Kuno Büsel, the documentary “GenDefekt” was create which can be freely streamed online under this link: https://kat6.life. For their dedication, they were honored with the Recognition Award from Austrian Child Protection Services.
Due to its rarity, this condition is still largely unknown even among medical professionals.
Delayed development, heart issues, a weakened immune system and various other symptoms make it very difficult for affected children to live independent lives.
Give everything or nothing! Only those who give what they can have tried everything and can be satisfied, even if you don't win, you are victorious over yourself.
[Andreas Pranter]
Thank you for your friendship and the unique, unforgettable moments!
[Franz Pammer (GEPA-pictures) *03.12.1962 † 03.12.2024]
“The right to life and assistance must apply to everyone in a civilized world. Not as a demand, but as an offer.”
[Andreas Quella Gratze]
Never give up!
[Thomas Guggenberger]
I wish for you to walk through life – even in difficult times – with more "color" and good companions and to never lose faith in yourself.
[Sara De Blue]
Every single day we get to spend on this beautiful Earth – it is a gift! I wish for all of us to live life with joy, confidence and courage.
[Benjamin Karl]
As the saying goes: “I had a guardian angel,”. I wish you one, too… My work is meant to symbolize this.
[Alois Fasching]
I offer my assistance wherever it is valued and makes a positive impact, even if it seems minor.
[Ingrid Gerencser (GEPA-pictures)]
Children should trust in the future and never lose their faith.
[Jos Pirkner]
Have the courage to try new things and don’t let others discourage you. Stay positive and believe in your dreams.
[Wolfgang Maier / Kowalski]
With the "Zebear," I embrace the children
[Hans Salcher]
You must burn with the fire you want to ignite in others.
[Johannes Kernmayer]
Put the focus on children, because they deserve to be seen.
[Johann Groder (EXPA)]