Navigating the world as a disabled woman can be a daunting task, but with resilience and strength, it is possible to overcome obstacles and find success in life. Here are some insights and advice for disabled women looking to navigate the world:
- Accept and Embrace Yourself: The first step in navigating the world as a disabled woman is to accept and embrace yourself. Acknowledge your disability and the challenges that come with it, but don’t let it define you. Embrace your strengths and unique perspective, and know that you have valuable contributions to make.
After the car accident in 1986, I made a conscious decision to accept the impairment and that it could not be fixed by any medical interventions. I wanted to live so I had to accept myself as a wheelchair user and no longer a fashion model. I decided that I could contribute to society and make a difference.
- Advocate for Yourself: In a world that is not always accommodating to disabilities, it is important to be your own advocate. Speak up for your needs and rights, and don’t be afraid to ask for accommodations or assistance when necessary.
When I got out of hospital after the accident, I was rudely awoken by a world not made for wheelchair users. I had to change where I lived (3rd floor flat with no lift), I had to change banks to one I could enter with ease in my area, and much more. I then realised that I had to speak up and out for myself about these issues because I heard very few voices on such matters at the time. I contacted an existing organisation in Johannesburg called People for Awareness on Disability Issues, who helped me set up the same in the city in which I lived.
- Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, and professionals who understand your disability and can offer guidance and encouragement. Joining a support group or seeking out a mentor can also be helpful in navigating the challenges of being a disabled woman.
The support I surrounded myself with was fellow disabled people and found a mentor in a very strong woman who was also a very strong advocate not only for herself but for disabled people in general. Everything I became I credit to her; Kathy Jagoe.
- Pursue Your Passions: Disability should not limit your aspirations and goals. Pursue your passions and interests, whether it be in education, career, or hobbies. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and don’t let anyone tell you that you cannot achieve your dreams.
Under the mentorship of Kathy, I learnt so much, I met many other strong disabled people both in South Africa and around the world, I experienced so much as she encouraged me to travel (which I thought I could not do as a wheelchair user), in short, I grew and took on the mantle and pursued my passion to help others in my boat.
- Educate Others: As a disabled woman, you have a unique perspective that can help educate others about disability rights and issues. Use your voice to advocate for change and promote awareness and understanding of disability.
In setting up People for Awareness on Disability Issues, I did just this – educate and advocate for others. I continue to do so more than 30 years later in many different ways but in particular through another organisation I started – Voice of Disability. It is very rewarding work which I hope to do until I die.
- Celebrate Your Accomplishments: Finally, it is important to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how big or small. Recognize the obstacles you have overcome and the strength you have gained in navigating the world as a disabled woman.
Oh, I absolutely do! I raised a wonderful daughter as a disabled, single mother; I’m grandmother of 2 beautiful, bright young girls, I have achieved an MBA in my 40’s without having have previous university education, I was part of writing a body of new laws in my country ensuring that disability is included, and much more.
In conclusion, navigating the world as a disabled woman requires strength, resilience, and a willingness to embrace your unique perspective. By advocating for yourself, seeking support, pursuing your passions, educating others, and celebrating your accomplishments, you can overcome obstacles and find success in life.
I love myself as a disabled woman, I love my life no matter the obstacles (and there are many) as a disabled woman, and I’m proud of my achievements! I wish the same for every disabled woman in the world.