Episodes
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Rachel Billington, AECOM's Director of People and Culture, shares her intriguing transition from policing to leading diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at a major global infrastructure company. Rachel recounts an inspiring moment when her impactful speech sparked enhanced maternity leave support. As we navigate the complexities of DEI amid contrasting political climates across Europe and North America, Rachel sheds light on overcoming the cyclical challenges and backlash against 'wokery.' With a focus on fostering inclusive environments, she emphasizes the power of open dialogue to move beyond the limitations of cancel culture and encourages authentic expression in the workplace.
Our conversation also uncovers AECOM's commitment to promoting diversity in engineering, with particular attention to gender balance and early career recruitment in the UK. Rachel reveals innovative strategies, such as collaborating with inclusive universities and conducting STEM outreach, to address gender disparities. We discuss the significance of using authentic representation in organizational marketing and the broader implications of diversity across all areas, including age. From ensuring equitable gender representation at senior levels to preventing talent drain through age diversity, Rachel highlights how economic and moral imperatives align to build a more inclusive workforce.Support the show
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Paralympian and trailblazer Sophia Warner joins us to share how she's reshaping the landscape of inclusive sports with the Superhero Series. With events like Winter Wonder Wheels and Superhero triathlon, Sophia is breaking down barriers by allowing participants to tackle courses in any way they can—whether being towed, pushed, or using other adaptive methods. Her passion for creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals with disabilities stems from her own experiences and fuels the series' mission to enable everyone to enjoy sports without the constraints of traditional rules.
We explore the dynamic blend of disability, adventure, and empowerment that defines these groundbreaking events. Sophia’s innovative approach bridges the gap between elite Paralympic sports and broader participation, offering both live and remote opportunities for those who might face travel or sensory challenges. Supported by major sponsors like Marvel and Disney, the Superhero Series is more than just a set of events; it's a movement that champions diversity, enabling participants to showcase their abilities to the world.
Beyond the races, there’s a deeper story unfolding—a narrative of community building and support for families with disabled children. Sophia reveals how the series creates a space for connection, understanding, and shared joy, enhancing the sense of unity among participants. As the Superhero Series grows from its humble beginnings to hosting thousands, the call for continued financial and volunteer support becomes crucial. Join us in celebrating the extraordinary spirit of these events and consider being part of this inspiring journey towards a more inclusive and joyful sporting future.Support the show
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Missing episodes?
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Explore the synergy between sustainability and accessibility in digital design with our insightful guest, Alexis, Senior Product UX Designer at IKEA. We promise a rich discussion on the shared goals of enhancing life and the planet, while tackling the challenge of fragmented reporting under the European Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. Alexis shares groundbreaking strategies on integrating sustainable practices into digital technology, stressing the need for collaboration between professionals to ensure accessibility's material impact is both recognized and effectively communicated.
Shifting focus to the power of optimism, we discuss redefining societal value beyond monetary terms. Drawing inspiration from compelling books like "What If We Get It Right," we advocate for moving away from pessimism to embrace hopeful innovation. Discover how sustainable and accessible practices can not only improve efficiency and creativity but also lead to better, more affordable products. We wrap up by emphasizing the importance of sustaining conversations on accessibility across multiple platforms, aiming for a long-term impact that transcends today's discussion. Join us for an inspiring narrative that challenges you to rethink value in design and business practices.Support the show
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Discover the captivating journey of Peter Torres-Fremlin, the visionary behind Disability Debrief, as he reveals how a platform dedicated to disability reporting came to be. Through his experiences with international organizations and his commitment to amplifying voices from the global south, Peter takes us on a tour of the crucial role investigative journalism plays in the disability sector. Unravel the challenges of navigating an overloaded information landscape and the transformative potential of AI in shaping the future of journalism.
Explore the profound questions surrounding disability data accuracy and the importance of transparency and accountability within the community. Peter and Antonio engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the reliability of widely cited statistics, such as the World Health Organization's 15% figure, and consider the implications of data on public policy. By examining the global adoption and debates surrounding methodologies like the Washington Group questions, we shed light on how accurate data can influence societal understanding and decision-making processes.
Finally, we confront the complexities of disability representation in media, emphasizing the need for both specialized and inclusive reporting. By addressing issues like media misrepresentation and the importance of dedicated spaces for the disability community, we underscore the power of resources like Disability Debrief in equipping advocates and professionals with trusted information. Join us as we advocate for improved quality in mainstream media while fostering environments where voices from the disability community can thrive and lead the narrative.Support the show
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In this episode of AXSChat, with John Graham, founder of the Giraffe Heroes Project, talks about his adventurous life, the importance of storytelling in inspiring action, and the need for individuals to take risks to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). John shares his transformative journey from seeking adrenaline rushes to finding purpose in helping others and discusses the impact of storytelling in driving social change. He emphasizes the importance of sticking one's neck out to create a better world and reflects on his experiences with activism, including his work against apartheid.
Takeaways
John Graham's life is a testament to adventure and risk-taking.Realizing the impact of one's actions can lead to profound change.Storytelling is a powerful tool for inspiring action.The Giraffe Heroes Project highlights individuals making a difference.DEI progress requires individuals to take risks and advocate for change.Social media can be used to share positive stories and inspire others.It's important to recognize and amplify the stories of everyday heroes.Activism often involves navigating complex political landscapes.Personal responsibility is key to driving social change.A life dedicated to service can be fulfilling and impactful.Support the show
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Darryl Adams, a luminary in the field of accessibility, joins us to share the extraordinary path that defined his 28-year career at Intel, shaped profoundly by his personal experiences with retinitis pigmentosa and single-sided deafness. Darryl's story is a heartfelt exploration of how Intel's inclusive culture, coupled with his relentless passion, empowered him to champion accessible technology for all. Through his reflections, we learn not just about the technological strides made at Intel, but also about the wider impact of fostering diversity and inclusion within the workplace.
Darryl takes us on a journey into the future of technology and communication, unveiling the world of possibilities opened by machine learning and conversational AI. Imagine a world where interactions transcend traditional interfaces, transforming into seamless, conversational exchanges that nurture human connection. Darryl shines a light on the transformative potential of these technologies to enhance communication tools, especially for those with speech differences or hearing loss, promising a more inclusive and interconnected world.
As we navigate the ethical dimensions of technology, we are urged to consider the responsibility of major tech companies in shaping AI that prioritizes inclusivity and fairness. By weaving together cybersecurity, accessibility, and ethics, the conversation addresses the need for personalized algorithms that cater to individual needs, ensuring trust and enhancing user experiences. Darryl's insights underscore the importance of refocusing tech industry objectives from profit to user-centric optimization. Finally, we reflect on the shifting demographics of an aging population and the vital role this plays in the ongoing dialogue around accessibility, urging collective efforts to embrace and address these emerging challenges.Support the show
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How do you transform a major online retailer into a beacon of accessibility? Join us as we sit down with Tzveta Dinova, the pioneering accessibility lead at ASOS, who shares her compelling journey from design and education to becoming a trailblazer in inclusive practices. Discover the story behind Sveta's transition into accessibility in 2018 and how her role has evolved within ASOS, a company dedicated to inclusion in fashion and beauty. Her unique position as the sole accessibility advocate at a major retail company presents both challenges and exceptional opportunities.
Get ready to understand the "why" behind accessibility initiatives through Tzveta's eyes. As an accessibility product owner, Sveta discusses her strategic approach to fostering a culture of accessibility within ASOS, educating her colleagues on the social model of disability. Learn from her methods of building empathy and commitment across a vast team through training sessions and live demonstrations from individuals with disabilities. Sveta underscores the importance of embedding accessibility into daily workflows, ensuring that every team member shares the responsibility.
Explore the transformative effects of accessible e-commerce platforms on customers with disabilities. Tzveta provides an insider’s perspective on measuring accessibility improvements at ASOS, from leveraging assistive technologies to collecting detailed feedback. Find out how balancing corrective actions with positive reinforcement creates a more inclusive platform and re-engages customers who previously faced accessibility challenges. This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to understanding and advancing accessibility in a fast-paced online retail environment.Support the show
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What if the applications we use every day were designed with everyone in mind? Join us on AXSChat as we welcome Sara Faatz, Director of Community Relations at Progress, who shares her expertise on the importance of human-centric software and accessibility in the digital realm. Discover why a whopping 98% of application developers and IT decision-makers recognize the need for human-centric software yet only 34% actively work towards it. Learn how the pandemic has transformed digital access from a convenience into an essential need, and why inclusive design should be at the forefront of every developer's mind.
Explore the profound impact of inclusive design on user experiences as we dive into shocking statistics, like how 78% of users abandon sites they cannot access. Hear personal stories that highlight the real-world consequences of neglecting accessibility, such as the frustration of booking medical appointments online. The discussion underscores the vital importance of user testing and the thoughtful consideration of human factors, encouraging developers to go beyond mere compliance and focus on creating seamless, intuitive experiences for all.
In our final segment, we tackle the challenges of integrating accessibility into application development head-on. Sara sheds light on the intricate balance between refining existing features and innovating with an accessibility-first mindset. We discuss the complexities of updating legacy systems, the need for specialized skills, and the industry's collective responsibility to raise accessibility awareness. By championing initiatives like apprenticeship standards for digital accessibility specialists, we emphasize the need for systemic change through education and government support. Join us in advocating for continuous, collective efforts to make digital platforms accessible for everyone.Support the show
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Could the future of web accessibility hinge on nuanced grading systems rather than binary pass/fail ratings? Join us as we sit down with Detlev Fischer, Managing Director of Dias and a key figure in the development of the German test procedure for WCAG 2. Detlev shares his eclectic career path, from studying film in Hamburg and visual arts in the UK to becoming an accessibility advocate. You'll gain a unique insider perspective on the collaborative efforts required to shape accessibility standards and the critical role organizations like W3C and IAAP play in this evolving field.
We dive deep into the complexities of web accessibility standards, particularly focusing on the WCAG 2 guidelines. Discover why binary ratings may not be enough and explore innovative solutions like graded ratings and the use of assertions for dynamic content. The conversation expands to the European Accessibility Act, the challenges of reaching a consensus among experts across regions, and the urgency to accelerate progress in web accessibility despite slow advancements over the past decade.
In our final segment, we tackle the implementation challenges of European accessibility standards and the varied progress across different regions. Learn how mandatory accessibility statements have driven improvements on public websites and why the demand for accessibility expertise is skyrocketing among software companies. We also celebrate recent achievements in the field, extending heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to these milestones. This episode is a tribute to the hard work and collaboration that continue to drive the accessibility movement forward.Support the show
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Ever wondered how to make your digital products truly inclusive? Join us on AXSChat as we feature Erik Kroes, an independent accessibility consultant with a compelling transition from photography and industrial design to spearheading accessibility initiatives at IKEA and ING. Erik brings his love for structure and efficiency to the forefront, sharing invaluable insights on overcoming the hurdles of embedding accessibility into large, complex organizations. From technical coding reviews to design considerations like dark mode, Erik's strategic thinking and practical solutions are not to be missed.
We also dig deep into the often-overlooked intricacies of QR code accessibility and the broader challenge of achieving true inclusiveness across vast corporate landscapes. Erik emphasizes the need for knowledgeable consultants from the get-go to avoid legal pitfalls and ensure substantive progress. We shed light on the critical importance of effective internal and external communication, advocating for a focused approach to accessibility criteria. By prioritizing quality over quantity, organizations can foster a genuinely inclusive culture. Tune in to learn how a strategic, thoughtful approach to accessibility can transform your business.Support the show
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Ever wondered how accessibility can boost rather than restrict innovation? Join us for an illuminating conversation with Malin Hammarberg, a dedicated UX designer and accessibility specialist at the Funka Foundation. Malin’s journey began with a project on "design for all" and has since evolved into a passionate commitment to inclusivity. Together, we explore how integrating accessibility from the outset can lead to more creative and user-friendly designs, challenging the misconceptions that often surround this essential practice.
We also tackle the long-standing challenges of web accessibility, especially for people with disabilities. Malin shares her frustrations with the repetitive nature of advocacy in this space and underscores the importance of early education for fostering a culture of inclusion. We discuss the critical need to embed accessibility into every phase of the design and development process, rather than relying on generative AI as a quick fix. The conversation draws parallels with the growing acceptance of cybersecurity, advocating for a similar proactive attitude toward accessibility.
In our final discussion, we look at the future of web accessibility, focusing on the continuous improvements necessary for keeping up with evolving standards. Malin highlights the role of AI-driven solutions and the hurdles companies face when integrating these into legacy systems. We emphasize the significance of user testing in uncovering design flaws and celebrate the rewarding nature of conducting training sessions that lead to those magical "aha" moments. Join us as we navigate the complexities and excitement of staying updated in this rapidly changing field and reflect on the ever-evolving journey of creating accessible digital experiences.Support the show
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Unlock the secrets behind Merck's groundbreaking digital accessibility policy as Dr. Stephen Framil, the Corporate Global Head of Accessibility, joins us to share his invaluable insights. Learn how Merck's Disability Inclusion Strategy Council catalyzed the creation of an inclusive digital environment, ensuring all users, including those with disabilities, can seamlessly navigate their digital landscape. Dr. Framil takes us behind the scenes to reveal the collaboration between Merck's chief diversity office, IT organization, and business units, offering a comprehensive look at the structural nuances that make this policy robust and resilient.
Discover the global ramifications of regional accessibility legislation and how Merck is proactively embedding accessibility into procurement and system development. From incorporating accessibility clauses in master service agreements to influencing software providers to adopt best practices, we cover it all. Dr. Framil also touches on the strides being made in physical accessibility at Merck's headquarters and the critical role of dedicated accessibility stewards. Finally, we broaden the conversation to discuss the impact of accessibility across various sectors, setting the stage for future dialogues in this essential field. Join us for this enlightening episode and stay tuned for more captivating discussions.Support the show
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Discover how to transform your hiring process with insights from Donna Bungard, the Senior Marketing Accessibility Program Manager at Indeed. In this episode, Donna sheds light on her role in promoting disability inclusion and accessibility within Indeed's brand and partnerships. Learn how Indeed's global commitment to a skills-first hiring approach is helping job seekers overcome barriers and why mainstreaming accessibility is crucial, especially from Donna's perspective as a neurodivergent individual.
We also tackle the critical issue of improving inclusion through job descriptions. Find out why it's essential to revisit job requirements and how focusing on practical skills and experience can break down barriers for people with disabilities. Donna discusses the impact of removing unnecessary degree prerequisites and the value of apprenticeships. Plus, get insight into Indeed's partnership with Billion Strong and how it aims to provide support and resources for individuals with disabilities, creating a more inclusive job search experience.
Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on fostering inclusive opportunities for everyone.Support the show
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Ever wondered how language shapes our perception of disability? Join us on Access Chat for an engaging conversation with Professor Gregor Wolbring, a distinguished Disability Studies Scholar from the University of Calgary. Born in Germany and personally affected by thalidomide, Gregor takes us on his transformative journey from biochemistry to disability studies. Gain fresh insights into the historical and public perception of thalidomide and discover why Gregor champions terms like "mobility divergent" over "walking impaired" to foster a more positive narrative around diverse abilities.
Explore the concept of "accessibility anxiety" in our second chapter, where we delve into the significant barriers disabled individuals face in everyday life. Gregor discusses how systemic obstacles and societal attitudes influence the choices and behaviors of disabled persons, often resulting in isolation. By comparing assistive technologies to everyday tools, we challenge the conventional perceptions of reliance on external aids and highlight the universal nature of seeking assistance. Understand how ableism operates as a societal mechanism that affects everyone, not just disabled individuals, and perpetuates inequality.
In our final segment, we tackle the complex issues surrounding disability terminology and its intersection with poverty. Gregor provides an insightful critique of person-first versus identity-first language and emphasizes the importance of self-determination in identity choices. We also shine a light on the critical issue of poverty among disabled individuals, revealing that a significant percentage live below the poverty line. Highlighting the need for greater representation and attitudinal accessibility, we discuss the Canadian Accessibility Act as a step toward a more inclusive society. Join us for this thought-provoking episode that underscores the broader implications of societal attitudes towards disability and the necessity of cultural inclusivity.Support the show
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Unlock the secrets of impactful autism advocacy with our inspiring guest, Ben VanHook. Ben is a master's student in public policy at George Mason University and a notable disability activist and speaker. He takes us through his personal and professional journey, highlighting his advocacy efforts and vision for a more inclusive society. Discover how he has championed autistic voices on prestigious platforms like the United Nations and why it’s crucial to prioritize lived experiences over external consultation.
Join us for a deep dive into the complex terrain of privilege and intersectionality within disability advocacy. Ben and I discuss how recognizing one's privilege can be a driving force for creating equal opportunities and fostering genuine inclusivity. The conversation underscores the necessity of integrating diverse perspectives from various ethnicities, genders, and backgrounds to dismantle biases and enrich the advocacy landscape. We also stress the importance of honouring the voices that have long contributed to the movement while expanding representation.
Lastly, we shift our focus to raising societal expectations for neurodiversity. From advocating for essential supports and accommodations as fundamental human rights to the benefits of a neurodivergent workforce, Ben shares invaluable insights. Learn about the strategies for incorporating disability topics into broader events and industries and the personal journey of overcoming trauma to become a more effective advocate. Wrap up with our plans for an engaging Twitter chat to connect with our community and amplify these vital conversations. Tune in to be part of this transformative dialogue!Support the show
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What does it mean to truly advocate for accessibility and inclusivity? Join us on AXSChat as we spotlight Sweta Mantrii, a dynamic advocate and stand-up comedian, who has navigated the complexities of living with spina bifida while challenging societal norms. From childhood struggles and school restrictions to her parents' unwavering support, Sweta shares her deeply personal journey. Her story is one of resilience and determination as she faces societal ableism and emerges stronger, turning her life's hurdles into powerful advocacy and comedy.
Sweta's comedy isn't just about laughs; it's a platform for thoughtful storytelling and social change. Learn how she masterfully balances humor to address and dismantle prejudices, ensuring her jokes "punch up" at power structures rather than down at marginalized groups. She opens up about the unique challenges of being a disabled woman in comedy, especially in a society still learning the ropes of inclusivity. Sweta's strategies for making audiences comfortable before diving into more impactful topics demonstrate the nuanced way humor can spotlight biases and drive meaningful conversations.
In a digital age, Sweta's insights into leveraging social media platforms are invaluable for aspiring comedians. She discusses the intricacies of balancing online content creation with live performances and emphasizes the importance of representation in corporate gigs. As we wrap up, we reflect on the necessity of authentic storytelling by disabled individuals and express our gratitude to Sweta for sharing her inspiring journey and transformative humor. Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, reflection, and a deeper understanding of the power of comedy in advocacy.Support the show
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How can we change the narrative around disability in media and advertising?
Join us as we welcome Lara Davis and Sarah Bartlett from the Business Disability Forum to talk about their revolutionary campaign, "Changing the Image of Disability." In this episode, Lara and Sarah share their extensive research that underscores a glaring lack of authentic disability representation. They explain how their innovative image bank not only features diverse disabled individuals, including those with less visible disabilities, but also involves the models in the creative process to ensure genuineness.
Discover the crucial importance of obtaining consent and crafting accurate image descriptions for individuals with disabilities. We delve into the responsibilities marketers have to avoid overusing images and to conduct comprehensive research. Antonio sheds light on the pitfalls of AI-generated images, pointing out their tendency to fall into stereotypical depictions. This episode serves as an eye-opener on how AI can improve with better training data, and how our campaign contributes to this by providing authentic images for public use.
Finally, we discuss the ongoing efforts to diversify our image bank, the challenges of using professional models versus employees, and the increasing availability of disabled models through specialized agencies. Our conversation wraps up with a reflection on the decade-long support from clearText and Amazon and our excitement about leveraging social media to further reshape perceptions of disability. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion aimed at enhancing understanding and awareness of disability in today's media landscape.Support the show
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What if the accessibility challenges we face today could be solved by a crowdsourced platform and an engaging, educational app? Join us on Access Chat as we welcome Peter Gibson and Anubha Singhal, the co-founders of EnableMeAccess, who are on a mission to revolutionize accessibility in India. Hear Peter's deeply personal journey as a carer for his wife, which unveiled the glaring gaps in accessibility standards within public spaces and hotels. Discover how these experiences inspired the creation of simplified data sheets and a gamified app designed to spark empathy and awareness in younger generations. Anubha shares her unique perspective and her pivotal role in this transformative initiative.
In this episode, we also feature an inspiring architect living with mobility impairment, who, through his professional insights, sheds light on the importance of universal design. Learn about the grassroots, crowdsourced approach EnableMeAccess employs to foster inclusivity, and their commitment to transparency and collaboration with the government. We delve into the organization's not-for-profit structure, their innovative strategies for sustainable operations, and how they are democratizing accessibility information. Understand the impact of their efforts to train individuals to accurately assess and report on building accessibility, empowering communities with the knowledge needed to create a more inclusive future.Support the show
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Imagine being denied an education simply because of who you are. Aquayemi Claude Akinsanya's journey from exclusion to advocacy is a testament to resilience and the power of fighting for change. This episode sheds light on his personal story, where systemic injustice fueled his passion for policy reform in education and social justice. We explore the intertwined nature of health and education, discuss racial disparities, and highlight the pressing issue of chronic underfunding in these sectors. Aquayemi insights provide a compelling narrative on how inequalities and gatekeeping mechanisms affect access to educational support, and we compare these issues within the contexts of the UK and the United States.
Our in-depth conversation extends to the structural challenges within special education systems. How does the lack of a written constitution in the UK create gaps in accountability and quality in education? Antonio provides a critical analysis of how wealth disparities further skew educational access, particularly disadvantaging minority ethnic students in less affluent areas. We also address the lengths some families must go to in order to secure quality education for their children, often needing to move outside their local catchment areas. This episode underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to uphold education as a universal human right, providing an insightful and thought-provoking discussion on the way forward.Support the show
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Join us on AXSChat as we sit down with the inspiring Praise Akobo, a Programme Associate and Disability Advocate from Abuja, Nigeria. Praise's personal journey as a person with a disability who overcame immense odds to pursue education is nothing short of remarkable. She shares her impactful work with Yield Up Development Initiative, where innovative educational programs are combating bullying and discrimination in Benue State. Praise also talks about her work with the Dogalov Human Support Initiative, which employs animal-assisted services to aid children with disabilities. This episode is a testament to how creative activities and local resources can foster a nurturing and inclusive learning environment.
We also explore the power of community-driven solutions and the significance of understanding local contexts in fostering disability inclusion. Praise recounts a touching story of assisting a young girl facing challenges similar to those she encountered in her youth, highlighting the transformative potential of localized efforts. Her experiences with international opportunities, such as the Mandela Washington Fellowship, underscore the value of adapting global insights to local challenges. Finally, Praise discusses the contributions of social networks in raising disability awareness, blending local insights with international practices, and the ongoing battle against cultural stigmas. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about creating inclusive, resilient communities.Support the show
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