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“Strengthening the leadership of people with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future”.

Every year, on December 3, the world unites to celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). This day is a reminder of the strength, determination and resilience of the more than one billion people around the world who live with disabilities. This is a moment to honor their achievements, amplify their voices, and recommit to building an inclusive world where barriers can be removed, and opportunities are equally accessible to all.

IDPD themes often revolve around inclusion, accessibility, and equity. These core pillars highlight the existing need to challenge societal norms and ensure that people with disabilities are not only seen but also heard and empowered. True inclusion means recognizing diverse abilities, addressing systemic disparities, and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.

From technology-based accessibility innovations to legislative changes, progress is clear. However, the journey towards comprehensive inclusivity is still ongoing and requires collective efforts from governments, communities and individuals.

As a speech therapy student, I have witnessed the incredible adaptability of people with disabilities. In my practice, I meet people who defy all odds every day, children with speech delays who learn to communicate their needs, adults recovering from strokes regaining their voices, and individuals with lifelong conditions who find ways to new to connecting with the world around them.

These people demonstrate unmatched resilience and creativity. They use communication boards, augmentative devices, and even gestures to bridge the gap caused by language barriers. Their ability to adapt and survive is a testament to the boundless power of the human spirit.

For example, I once worked with a boy who was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Although he faced significant challenges, he was determined to communicate through assistive communication devices. We used the “AVAZ” app to help him express his daily needs and it was very inspiring. Moments like this remind me that disability is not an inability, but rather a different way of navigating the world.

Inclusivity starts with awareness. It’s about recognizing that each person, whatever their abilities, has a unique perspective and contribution. Schools, workplaces, and communities must strive to be spaces where differences are valued and accommodations are seen as a need, not a privilege.

Apart from that, allies have an important role. Advocacy can take various forms, whether by pushing for policies that ensure equal access, supporting businesses that prioritize accessibility, or simply listening to the lived experiences of people with disabilities.

As we mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let us move beyond recognition and towards actionable change. Support organizations that fight for disability rights, educate yourself about the challenges people with disabilities face, and most importantly, ensure that inclusivity is not just a slogan but a way of life.

Together, we can create a world where every individual, regardless of ability, can live with dignity, respect and unlimited opportunity. Because when everyone is involved, everyone wins.