Whereas I don’t have the reply but, what I do have are some clear pathways that I’ll be specializing in within the subsequent yr or two. Extra importantly, scoping out what may work has made me ask some essential questions round what is required and the way it’s not what I initially thought.
2 – Communicate up, communicate out
I do know I’ve an essential message that I need to share within the significance of wheelchair expertise. I need to inform folks concerning the adjustments they may make and share what a distinction it made to my life.
Digital communication is my consolation zone. So beginning out that’s what I did. I arrange my web site, social channels and e-newsletter (you’ll be able to see all of them on my Linktree right here). That wasn’t going to be sufficient although.
I took a step out of my consolation zone and began speaking extra in actual life conditions. Typically it was by means of displays in conferences, typically it was networking. Then there was the large one. The TEDx speak.
Most different introverts will perceive what I imply concerning the feeling of not being the loudest individual within the room, or perhaps not even getting the prospect to talk in conferences. So the considered public talking was a giant step and one thing that I’ve not executed earlier than.
Doing the TEDx was among the finest experiences of the yr. Not simply being on stage on the occasion, however the preparation earlier than and the way helpful it’s been since in connecting with different folks. You possibly can learn extra about my ideas on the TEDx speak in a earlier weblog right here.
3- Independence is exclusive
On the Stephen Lloyd Awards night, there was a chance to pitch concepts to teams of individuals after which for them to ask questions on your venture. That is most likely my favorite factor.
I can speak all day about wheelchair expertise. However when folks ask questions, it provides them one thing they need to know and makes me suppose.
One query that I actually favored on the occasion was “I’ve a buddy who’s a wheelchair person, however he’s not acquired full operate in his arms such as you. Would you have the ability to help him?”.
I couldn’t have written a greater query myself.
Each time I speak about who wheelchair expertise are for, I at all times make it clear that each wheelchair person can achieve one thing. No matter age, means degree, kind of wheelchair getting used, ambulant or full-time person, short-term or everlasting.
Everybody can be taught one thing.
I prefer to dispel the concept wheelchair expertise are for lively customers. That’s an unhelpful narrative. Personally, I take advantage of wheelchair expertise to one thing of an excessive degree on escalators and stairs, as a result of that’s what I must get round. If somebody must discover ways to carry their espresso at house, how you can open a door or how you can push so as to get to the store simpler then that’s what independence seems to be like for them.
All through this yr, I’ve seen such a variety of individuals with totally different talents and them taking totally different expertise away from coaching periods that they may discover most helpful. The abilities could be totally different, however the outcomes are at all times the identical. Constructing confidence and gaining independence.
And the winner is
The awards night was a incredible occasion on the Bates Wells places of work within the Metropolis of London and full of fantastic alternatives to hearken to others’ tales and community. The awards went to a few extraordinarily properly deserving organisations in Actual Ice, R;pple Suicide and The Vavengers.
Whereas I didn’t win the prize on the night, what I’ve acquired by reaching the finals means so much, making some unimaginable connections that pave the way in which for thrilling alternatives in 2023.
