Disability Pride Month: A Conversation with Nicola
Welcome to our Q&A session with Nicola, one of our incredible team members who is here to share her personal experience of living with a disability and help raise awareness of Disability Pride Month.
Disability Pride month runs throughout July to celebrate the disabled community, encouraging them to share their experiences, promote visibility, and celebrate their unique strengths.
In this interview, we delve into Nicola's personal journey, her thoughts on Disability Pride Month, and discover the resources she recommends that help to foster positive conversations and understanding of disabilities.
So, without further ado, let's dive into Nicola's story!
To give us some background, please may you share a bit about your personal experience with disability and why Disability Pride Month is important to you?
Hi everyone! Of course! I have been living with my disabilities for the last four years and it has reshaped my life in so many ways. As a young person who uses a mobility aid, it has been incredibly difficult to adjust to not only all the physical barriers I now have, but also to the way the world perceives you differently when you have a disability. Disability Pride month holds a lot of importance to me as there is so much negative stigma around being disabled, that it has taken me a long time to find pride in the person I am now with my disabilities, and I still struggle with this at times. But I believe it's essential to break the stigma surrounding disabilities through education and conversation. This month allows us to celebrate our differences, challenge misconceptions, and create more inclusive spaces. It's about recognising that our disabilities are part of who we are, and we should be proud of our unique abilities and contributions.
For those unfamiliar with Disability Pride Month, could you explain its origins and its significance?
Disability Pride Month originated in the US but has grown into a global awareness month. It's an opportunity to foster understanding, empathy, and acceptance worldwide. Unfortunately, there's still a lack of awareness surrounding this month outside the disabled community, which is why it's crucial to bring attention to it and start positive conversations about disability.
Can you share any resources or websites where people can learn more about Disability Pride Month?
Absolutely! If you're looking for a general overview, I recommend visiting Inclusive Employers' website. They provide insightful information about Disability Pride Month and its significance.
Additionally, I came across a really compelling article last year on the Local Government Association's website, which highlights the importance of Disability Pride Month. If you wanted to learn more I‘d definitely recommend reading it.
On a similar note, are there any specific organisations or charities you'd like to highlight that have been helpful to you personally?
Definitely! One organisation I always like to recommend is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. Their work supports those like myself who live with less visible and non-visible disabilities. They have built a global Sunflower network across retail, public transport including over 200 airports, education, healthcare, central and local government agencies, theatres, and more. Therefore, by opting to wear a Sunflower lanyard allows those with these kinds of disabilities to be identified as needing additional help in public places that can be more difficult to navigate due to each person’s individual access needs.
They offer loads of information on their website and have a fantastic podcast called "The Sunflower Conversations." The podcast features individuals with various conditions, sharing their stories and insights into living with disabilities.
Regarding your role as a digital marketing specialist within IMCD, how do you feel IMCD, as an employer, embraces disability within the team?
IMCD has been incredibly supportive and inclusive when it comes to embracing disability within the team. They prioritise creating an environment where individuals with disabilities feel valued, respected, and empowered. They have implemented accessible workplace accommodations, such as assistive technologies and flexible work arrangements, to ensure all staff have the resources and equal opportunities they need to succeed in their job.
Additionally, IMCD actively works towards creating a culture of empathy and understanding, whilst simultaneously encouraging a strong sense of entrepreneurship and ownership to staff. I'm grateful to be part of a business that recognises and embraces the diverse strengths individuals with disabilities bring to the table.
What would you recommend to those with a disability seeking employment?
I think that this comes down to the individual and their experiences, as every disability is different and presents different challenges when seeking employment, but knowing what your strengths are and how much value you can add to a job role is key. Do thorough research on potential employers to find companies that prioritise diversity and inclusion. Look for organisations that have inclusive policies, accessible facilities, and a track record of hiring individuals with disabilities. There is also support available from disability-focused organisations or career services that can provide guidance, resources, and connections. Networking with professionals who understand the challenges and triumphs of disability can open doors to new opportunities.
It’s been really great speaking with you, Nicola. To finish, do you have any further comments about Disability Pride Month?
I guess to summarise I’d just like to reiterate the importance of Disability Pride Month and stress that it isn’t just a time for virtue signalling. It’s a fantastic opportunity for individuals with disabilities to reclaim their narratives, challenge stereotypes, and celebrate their accomplishments. It's about shifting the conversation from pity or sympathy to one of empowerment and pride. Disabilities, just like any other aspect of human diversity, should be celebrated and embraced. It's crucial to continue advocating for accessibility, inclusivity, and equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities in all aspects of life. By working together, we can break down barriers, change societal perceptions, and create a more inclusive world where everyone can thrive regardless of their abilities.
Did you find Nicola's story insightful?
If you're inspired by our conversation and passionate about creating a world of opportunity for all, why not consider joining the IMCD team?
We value diversity and are actively seeking individuals from all walks of life.