Published for International Day of People with Disability 2024.
For me, leadership is about encouraging and supporting people to reach their fullest potential. It’s not just about formal roles—leadership can be as simple as cheering someone on when they’re learning a new skill, like playing guitar.
In the disability community, anyone who speaks out against ableism is a leader in their own right. Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about action. Sharing posts about disability rights, calling out ableist attitudes, or joining networks are all ways to step into leadership and make a difference. Joining Youth Parliament worked wonders for my leadership skills.
As a young person with disability, I believe our lived experience gives us a unique ability to lead progress for ourselves. We know what’s needed because we live it every day. But for society to truly amplify our voices, representation must not be paternalistic. Co-design must replace mere consultation, giving people with disability genuine power to shape decisions that affect us.
An inclusive and sustainable future is one where everyone is treated equitably and listened to with respect. Disability inclusion training and education can help to dismantle ableist attitudes.
To other young people with disability: there’s no single path to leadership. You don’t need to be a CEO to lead. Start where you are—share your story, join networks, and speak up. Every step matters.
I hope my leadership contributes to breaking down ableist barriers and helping future generations of people with disability fully enjoy their human rights.