You’ve probably heard people talk about diversity and inclusion in the workplace, at school, in sport. But what do these terms really mean and why does it matter?
In a nutshell, we all want to be included – at work, by our friends, in the classroom, and in our community. But if you only ever look at life from your own perspective, it can be easy to overlook how others experience the world.
Inclusion needs diverse voices and viewpoints
I’ve been in a wheelchair for most of my life. And from where I sit, I think life is pretty fantastic. I’m a go-getter and adrenaline junkie and refuse to let life be boring or dull. But from where other people sit (ok, stand), they can pity me or think I’m “less than”. They struggle to see past how I look. Where other people see “disability”, I just see a different way of getting around.
What is inclusion anyway?
I use my situation to show kids, adolescents, adults – and their parents – what inclusion looks like, should look like, can look like, and needs to look like. Having a physical or mental difference doesn’t make a person any less. People might know this in theory, and even think they believe it deep down. But often, something else might show up in their attitudes, assumptions and behaviours. I use an open-minded and compassionate approach to talk through our limiting beliefs and the assumptions we make about other people.
See the world through another lens
Just like I get around the world in a different way, some kids look at the world through unique eyes. Some people think of autism as a disability but I think nothing could be further from the truth. It’s one of the most intriguing ways of looking at the world and I’m passionate about finding ways to connect with people impacted by ASD, or Autism Spectrum Disorder. In my experience, having an ASD diagnosis opens up the world for the child and family. Nine times out of 10, it’s a relief to know there’s nothing ‘wrong’: in fact, it’s a beautiful thing to see the world in a different way. I love working with parents and kids to help them see that perspective too.
“Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance” Verna Myers
Let me be your role model (or roll model!)
It’s so important to role model determination and tenacity, no matter what life throws your way. Kids and adults see me achieving things they thought I couldn’t. They see me doing things that scare me. And every time they see that, I think they learn to be a little more open themselves, and a little more willing to try and/or accept something new.
People believe in what they can see
I normalise being in a wheelchair and open people’s eyes to what’s possible. Not just for me, but for them too. By challenging their initial perceptions of me, I teach them not to judge a book by its cover, or a body by how it looks.
One of my ultimate goals is that we treat and value everyone equally – no matter how they look, sound, or get around.
I believe that everybody has the ingredients needed for awesomeness and I know that by working with I can help you to mix these together and let your awesomeness shine out!
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