Published for International Day of People with Disability 2024.
For me, leadership is about making people feel seen and heard. It’s about creating a space where others can share their stories and be themselves.
As a Regional Connector for the JFA Purple Orange SKILL project, advocacy and inclusivity are at the heart of what I do. I listen to the voices and concerns of the Kangaroo Island peer network, advocating for better access and inclusion standards in our community—or supporting members to self-advocate for the changes they want to see.
I believe society can better amplify the voices and leadership of people with disability by giving us the time and space to share our stories, making co-design standard practice, and ensuring we have a seat at every table.
To young people with disability who want to become leaders: follow your dreams. If you need extra support, don’t hesitate to find a mentor who can guide you along the way.
For me, a pivotal moment in my own journey as a leader came from Dylan Alcott’s incredible Australian of the Year acceptance speech in 2022—it was a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we speak up and lead with purpose.
On this International Day of People with Disability, let’s celebrate the strength, resilience, and leadership of our community.
Together, we can create a more inclusive and sustainable future.