Disability Awareness Month Series- Part (ii)- A focus on undiagnosed and neurodivergent disabilities

-
"Disability is not about people's impairments, instead, it's about barriers across people with different impairments".
Dr. Harun Hassan, Director, National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD- Kenya)
4th Annual Inclusive Africa Conference hosted by inABLE

Did you know that an estimated 15% of the African population (1.4 Billion) is living with a disability? That's almost 220 million people who continue to face social, physical, and online barriers on a daily basis. Yet, many of these disabilities go undiagnosed or untreated, resulting in individuals struggling to understand their differences and navigating a world that isn't always accommodating.

An image showing different neurodivergent disabilities was downloaded from Pinterest.

In this disability awareness month series, I'd like to focus on undiagnosed neurodivergent disabilities and embracing newly diagnosed disabilities in adults. Neurodivergent disabilities, such as autism, ADHD, dyscalculia, and dyslexia, are often misunderstood and overlooked in African societies. It's essential to recognize these disabilities, even if they aren't visible, to create an inclusive and equitable environment for all. Please read that again, even if they aren't visible!

Moreover, many adults are also diagnosed with disabilities later in life, whether through self-discovery or medical intervention or in this day and age by watching a video on social media and realizing they can relate and suddenly life makes sense. Who they are now makes sense. It's important to support and embrace these individuals as they navigate their newfound identities. These disabilities might impact their work, social life, or daily routines, but with understanding and accommodations, they can live fulfilling lives.

It's time to change our mindset and be more accommodating. Instead of focusing on what individuals with disabilities can't do, let's focus on their strengths and how we can level the playing field. This involves creating accessible physical spaces, utilizing assistive technologies, and providing accommodations in the workplace and education systems.

According to Forbes, "A neurodiverse employee might also be known as a "sensitive striver." .... All that they need is an employer who can see and embrace this potential and make any adjustments necessary". 

By embracing disability, we can build a more equitable and inclusive society that values diversity. Everyone deserves an equal chance to access opportunities and live a fulfilling life. Let's work towards breaking down barriers and creating a society centered on inclusion.

"Design enables accessibility! We need to bring those two words together" 
Rama Gheerawo, Director, The Helen Hamlyn Centre for Design

Comments

Post a Comment

Hello, Feel free to share your ideas,I would love to have your feedback, regards.

Popular posts from this blog

How did you end up in Turkana and other stories...

-
Image
How did you end up in Turkana??? I get this question a looot! I guess many ask this because of the preconceived biases based on what they have either watched on telly or heard. It's a simple lack of exposure to the beauty of Turkana. If anything, I encourage questions about Turkana so people can learn. It's either that (free) or you come visit (learn). So.... My name is Esther Mwangi, and yes I am from Turkana. To make it short, my Dad came to Turkana 54 years ago as an Accounting Clerk. Mum followed 11 years later. The two have together made a name for themselves and have become a great part of the community. That means, I was born, bred, educated, and nourished at the heart of Turkana in Lodwar. I did not end up here, this is home. A selfie of me in a full Turkana regalia. Many know Turkana for its climatic condition, and being sorrounded by three countries comes with its challenges, and that may be the other reason we are known for. Hey, we have our challenges but, allo...
Read more

My 12-year career journey: A reflection

-
Image
As I reflect on my 12-year journey across various sectors— including private sector (from real estate, PR agencies, hospitality, consultancy), non-profit, and now government— I've gathered invaluable insights that I wish I had known at the start of my career.  Mind you, it took me a while to land a permanent job that I was reffered to as a professional volunteer. I am eternally grateful because volunteering shaped me. In my first 'real' job, I was featured on Parents Magazine Africa- Phenomenal Women- "Don't sit waiting for a job, volunteer and doors will open". I was a very young woman in a managerial position in a real estate company then. Doors did open, and I pray they stay open.  Each experience has shaped my perspective, and I'm eager to share these lessons in the hopes that they resonate with those just starting on their professional paths. I am a work in progress and enthusiastic about the future. So, before diving into my insights, I urge everyone...
Read more

FRIENDSHIP UNCURTAINED

-
Image
The best time to make a friend is when you do not need one. Friendship comes in a very weird and unplanned manner. Think of how you became friends with your own best friend, where and how you met, who said hi, or did you just start talking. Was it funny, fun, or totally out of place? What was your first impression of them? were you introduced to each other or did you just make friends? Two words best describe this; a relationship and mutual. So, there has to be a relationship between two or more people, who hold a mutual understanding for each other. A relationship is an association between two people that may be short or long term. it may also be intimate or interpersonal. Mutual on the on the hand means  reciprocal, with respect or towards the other. Friendship in essence then means you have the other person in mind, you consider how they feel and how they are doing at all times. Friendship is simply selfless. A friend is someone who you first know well, understand e...
Read more