Billion Strong Newsletter July 2024 - Changing Society Together!
Billion Strong Newsletter - July 2024
Changing Society Together!
A Letter from Debra Ruh
Ruh Global IMPACT, CEO and Founder. Billion Strong, Executive Chair and Co-founder
Dear Billion Strong Community,
Welcome to the latest edition of our Billion Strong Newsletter.
The past few years have brought unprecedented changes to our world, from the #COVID-19 pandemic to global #conflicts, increasing #mistrust, societal challenges, #ClimateAction, and #wars.
These events have tested the fabric of our societies, highlighting both vulnerabilities and strengths. For our community of people with disabilities, the impact has been profound, bringing unique challenges and opportunities to the forefront.
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Amidst these trials, the resilience and strength of our community have shone brightly. The pandemic, in particular, has underscored the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in every aspect of life—from healthcare to education to the workplace and beyond.
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We have witnessed remarkable stories of individuals and organizations adapting to new realities, leveraging technology to stay connected, and advocating for the rights and needs of people with disabilities in unprecedented ways.
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At #BillionStrong, we believe in the power of collective action. We are a global community of 1.3 billion strong, united by the lived experience of disability and a shared vision of a world where everyone has the chance to thrive. Now, more than ever, our mission to unite and empower the billions of voices of people with disabilities is crucial.
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Our challenges are immense, but so are the opportunities for positive change. By coming together as a global community, we can amplify our voices, advocate for our rights, and work towards a world where inclusivity and accessibility are not just ideals but realities for everyone.
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Remember, "Nothing about us without us."
We will drive the change needed to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
This edition of our newsletter focuses on the theme of "Changing Society"—a call to action for us to reflect on the recent past, share our experiences, and look forward to a future where our collective efforts make a tangible difference.
I invite you to engage with the content of this newsletter, share your own stories, and join us in our ongoing efforts to advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities.
Together, we are stronger, and together, we will create a better future. #WeAreBillionStrong
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Let's continue to make a difference and be united in our mission and vision.
Warm regards,
Debra Ruh?
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Introduction
Changing Society to Empowering Our Disability Community
Dear Changemakers,
In an era of unprecedented global challenges—from pandemics to geopolitical conflicts, climate crises to social upheavals—our mission to create an inclusive world has never been more crucial. Today, we invite you to join us in a powerful movement to reshape society, ensuring everyone can flourish and contribute their unique strengths regardless of ability.
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This edition's theme, "Changing Society," embodies our unwavering commitment to revolutionizing how the world perceives, interacts, and empowers the disability community. At #BillionStrong, we stand as the voice for 1.3 billion people with disabilities worldwide, united in our diversity and resolute in our purpose.
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Our goal is ambitious yet achievable: to forge a society where accessibility is the norm, inclusion drives innovation, and the resilience of the disability community inspires global progress. Through collaborative advocacy, compelling storytelling, and groundbreaking initiatives, we aim to:
1.????? Influence policymakers to prioritize inclusive legislation
2.????? Challenge societal perceptions and break down barriers
3.????? Showcase the invaluable contributions of people with disabilities across all sectors
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This newsletter features several new sections that highlight our efforts and the inspiring work being done within our community:
Section 1: Empowering Job Seekers with Disabilities in the UK!
Discover our new partnership with Indeed, which brings a dedicated job board and resource page featuring Disability Confident jobs.
Section 2: Voices of Resilience—Overcoming Adversity to Change Society
Learn about the indomitable spirit of our community members who have adapted, grown, and thrived despite significant challenges.
Section 3: Transforming Lives - Changing Society
Explore how recent global events have impacted the lives of people with disabilities and the community's aspirations for a more inclusive future.
Section 4: Featured 50 Articles on LinkedIn - Driving Change in Society
Dive into a collection of 50 insightful articles by Nabil Eid, Co-founder and CSO of Billion Strong, covering diverse topics from employment and education to AI accessibility and mental health.
Section 5: Global Advisor Corner Feature
Please get to know our esteemed global advisors featured in this edition and share their expertise and contributions to the Billion Strong mission.
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Together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change, transforming not just our immediate communities but the very fabric of society. Your engagement, voice, and actions catalyze this transformative journey.
Join us in this pivotal mission. Let's build a world where empowerment knows no bounds and inclusion is at the heart of every societal structure.
Onward to a more inclusive future,
The #BillionStrong Newsletter Team
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New Partnership Announcement (Billion Strong and Indeed)
Empowering Job Seekers with Disabilities in the UK!
We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with Indeed, bringing you a dedicated job board and resource page featuring Disability Confident jobs! While this is not a funding partnership, it will significantly drive job opportunities and inclusivity in the workplace, regardless of financial support.
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What This Means for You?
Whether you are searching for your next opportunity or looking to improve your current role, we’ve got you covered. Our partnership with Indeed will help you discover inclusive workplaces that value and celebrate everyone's abilities.
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Discover Inclusive Workplaces
Check out our job board featuring Disability Confident jobs and explore our resource page with valuable tools and tips: Inclusive Job Board and Resources here: https://uk.indeed.com/job-search-services/billion-strong-jobs?hl=en.
Let’s create a world where everyone’s abilities are valued and celebrated. Together, we can make a difference!
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Voices of Resilience—Overcoming Adversity to Change Society
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Changing Society: Reflections on Recent Major Changes and Hopes for the Future
By Puneet Singh Singhal. Co-founder Billion Strong, Empowering Young Innovators with Disabilities
Over the past few years, the world has faced unprecedented challenges that have reshaped our lives. As a Disability Rights activist focused on the intersection of climate change and the global disability community, I have witnessed and experienced significant positive and negative changes that underscore the urgent need for immediate and inclusive climate action.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, highlighting existing inequalities and vulnerabilities within our societies. For the disability community, the impact was particularly severe. Access to healthcare, essential services, and support systems became even more challenging, exposing the gaps in our societal structures. The pandemic also underscored the importance of accessibility in all aspects of life, from digital communication to healthcare and transportation. It became evident that inclusivity is not just a matter of convenience but a fundamental necessity for the well-being of everyone.
The pandemic also brought a renewed focus on the environment. As cities shut down and human activity slowed, we saw a temporary improvement in air quality and a pollution reduction. This momentary glimpse of a cleaner environment reminded us of the delicate balance between human activity and the health of our planet. It highlighted the need for sustainable living and the importance of reducing our carbon footprint to combat climate change.
However, the disability community remains largely overlooked in climate conversations. As the largest minority group in the world, making up 17-22% of the global population, it is our right and duty to be part of the solution. Climate change affects us all, but its impact on people with disabilities can be particularly severe. From natural disasters to extreme weather conditions, the barriers to safety and accessibility are heightened for those with disabilities.
For a city to be truly walkable, wheelchair-friendly, equipped with tactile paving, and fitted with accessible public transport, we need a climate conducive to outdoor activities. Accessibility goes hand in hand with sustainability. There is no climate justice without disability justice. We must ensure that the voices of people with disabilities are included in climate policies and actions. Our experiences and insights are invaluable in creating solutions that work for everyone.
Despite the challenges, there have been positive changes. The pandemic forced us to adapt and innovate. Virtual platforms became essential, opening up new opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in discussions and decision-making. There has been a growing recognition of the need for inclusivity in all spheres of life, including climate action. The disability movement, one of the largest on Earth, is increasingly seen as a crucial part of the broader fight for environmental justice, giving us hope for a more inclusive future.
Looking to the future, I hope for a world where inclusivity is the norm, not the exception.
A world where climate action plans are designed with input from all communities, including those with disabilities. We must challenge the climate crisis with a united front, recognizing that the fight for environmental sustainability is intrinsically linked to the struggle for social justice. All eco-activists know marginalized communities need to be amplified, and it's time we ensure that the disabled community is heard loud and clear.
As we move forward, let us remember that accessibility and sustainability are two sides of the same coin. By working together, we can create a world that is not only environmentally sustainable but also inclusive and accessible for all. This is our shared responsibility; we can make a difference together, empowering us to take action.
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Adventures in Adaptive Driving
By Megan Starrak, Content and Creative Writer, Volunteer at Billion Strong?
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In the fall of 2022, I received my second Covid-19 booster and felt safer going public. It had been a long two years of living largely alone, and I was anxious to feel like part of the world again. But then my right leg started developing painful cramps whenever I tried to work my car's gas and brake pedals. Ultimately, I decided it wasn’t worth the pain and took myself off the road.
Fast-forward to late 2023/early 2024, when I was introduced to Alpha One.
Alpha One is an organization that helps people with disabilities live independent lives. For me, that meant a driving evaluation and a test drive in a car outfitted with hand controls.
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I was a little nervous on the day, but the woman who greeted me was so warm and friendly that she immediately put me at ease. She walked me through the first part of the evaluation: an interview and cognitive testing.
Once that was completed, we got in the car, and she drove me to where I would do the test drive. In my head, I was expecting a parking lot or some other open space. It turns out that my first time driving an adapted car would be in a cemetery.
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There are several kinds of hand controls used in cars. The one I was using was a spinner knob on the steering wheel so I could turn the wheel with one hand.
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My other hand would be operating a lever that I pushed to slow down/stop and pulled to go faster. The first few minutes I operated the car felt like patting your head and rubbing your stomach simultaneously. And each time I sped up or slowed down, my right foot instinctually reached for the pedals. It all just felt so strange.? By the end of the afternoon, I was flying along at a speedy 15 mph through the narrow lanes of the cemetery, and the evaluator assured me that I would be cleared to get adaptive technology for my car. I was very excited, thinking I would be driving again sooner rather than later.
But then, the reality of the next steps in the process sank in.
I need 10 hours of lessons in an adapted car. The problem is I live in a rural area with no real transportation options to get to any instructors trained in adaptive driving. It’s been frustrating, but I’m still optimistic I will make it happen.
I wish there were more resources to help people like me who cannot drive and don’t have anyone readily available to assist them. While organizations like Alpha One offer wonderful services, more work is needed.
Transforming Lives - Changing Society
By Nabil Eid, Co-founder and CSO of Billion Strong
As we move forward in a rapidly evolving world, inclusivity and accessibility are paramount. Our commitment at Billion Strong is to champion the rights of people with disabilities worldwide and enhance their lives. The theme of this edition, "Transforming Lives—Changing Society," embodies our mission to foster a society that values and includes everyone, regardless of their abilities.
·???????? Empowering Change
Creating a more inclusive world requires actionable steps and collective effort. By advocating for policy changes, implementing accessible technologies, and fostering inclusive work environments, we can provide a roadmap for driving meaningful change. Highlighting successful initiatives and offering concrete suggestions, we aim to inspire our readers to take proactive steps in their communities.
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·???????? Policy Advocacy
o?? Advocate for laws and regulations that protect the rights of people with disabilities, ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, healthcare, and public services.
o?? Support campaigns and organizations working to raise awareness and push for stronger disability rights locally, nationally, and globally.
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·???????? Accessible Technology
o?? Encourage businesses and governments to invest in and develop assistive technologies that enhance the independence and quality of life for people with disabilities.
o?? Promote the adoption of universal design principles in product development, ensuring new technologies are accessible to everyone.
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·???????? Inclusive Work Environments
o?? Encourage employers to adopt inclusive hiring practices, provide reasonable accommodations, and create supportive work cultures that value diversity.
o?? Provide training for all employees to increase understanding and sensitivity towards colleagues with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive workplace.
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·???????? Community Engagement
o?? Advocate for designing and modifying public spaces to be accessible, ensuring people with disabilities can fully participate in community life.
o?? Support Inclusive Recreational Programs:** Promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in recreational activities, such as sports and arts programs, to foster community integration.
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·???????? Educational Initiatives
o?? Support schools and universities in making their facilities and programs accessible, ensuring students with disabilities receive a quality education.
o?? Advocate for the inclusion of disability awareness and inclusion topics in educational curriculums to foster a culture of understanding and acceptance from a young age.
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·???????? Health and Wellbeing Support
o?? Work towards making healthcare systems fully accessible, including physical access to facilities and accessible information and communication.
o?? Provide accessible mental health services and support networks tailored to the needs of people with disabilities.
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·???????? Allyship and Solidarity
o?? Recognize and support allies and organizations that work alongside the disability community, highlighting their contributions and fostering a spirit of solidarity.
o?? Encourage the formation of networks and partnerships among disability advocates, allies, and organizations to strengthen collective efforts and share resources.
Empowering change is a collective responsibility. By taking these practical steps and supporting initiatives that promote inclusivity and accessibility, we can drive meaningful change in our communities. Together, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can live with dignity, opportunity, and respect.
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Featured 50 Articles on LinkedIn - Driving Change in Society
From January to July 2024
Explore an influential collection of 50 articles published on LinkedIn by Nabil Eid, Co-founder and CSO of Billion Strong. This curated series represents a powerful fusion of critical thought, innovative ideas, and actionable strategies to reshape society's approach to disability and inclusion.
Covering a diverse range of subjects such as employment, education, inclusion, grassroots movements, entrepreneurship, workplace diversity, inclusive campuses, training, AI accessibility, neurodiversity, accessible products, mental health, and healthcare, each article offers unique perspectives, strategic insights, and thought leadership aimed at advancing inclusivity, accessibility, and empowerment for all.
We invite you to delve into this rich repository of knowledge. Whether you're a policymaker, business leader, educator, or advocate, these articles provide valuable insights and strategies to drive meaningful change. We can forge a more inclusive, accessible, and empowering world for all.
领英推荐
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July 2024
1.????? Neurodiversity in the Workplace is Essential for Unleashing Innovation in an Evolving Job Market
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June 2024
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May, 2024
2.????? Are We Providing the Right Training for the 70% of People with Disabilities Who Want to Work?
9.????? Beyond Performative Allyship
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April, 2024
3.????? Investing in the Future Through Empowering Arab Young Women with Disabilities in the Digital Age
6.????? Beyond Accessibility Ramps: Towards a Holistic Approach to Inclusive Education in Arab Universities
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March, 2024
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February, 2024
3.????? When AI Gets It Wrong! How Do Biased Algorithms Discriminate Against People with Disabilities?
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January, 2024
2.????? Exploring Four Ethical Considerations in Machine Learning, AI, Emerging Technologies, and Design
3.????? Six Steps to the Synergy of AI and Healthcare, Revolutionizing Lives for Those with Disabilities
5.????? Pioneering Inclusive AI for Social Good - Amplifying Voices Shaping an Inclusive Tech Future.
8.????? Four Essential Insights: Navigating the Intersection of AI, Humanity, and Disability in Our Future
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Global Advisor Corner Feature
By Jasmin Ambiong, Chief Partnership Officer for Billion Strong
We are excited to announce the launch of a new series in our newsletter: Global Advisor Corner.
This special section is dedicated to appreciating our esteemed global advisors, showcasing their remarkable contributions, inspiring work, and hopes for a society that fully supports the needs of the community of persons with disabilities.
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In each edition, we will introduce you to three of our global advisors, delving into their professional journeys, impactful initiatives, and visions for an inclusive world. This series aims to highlight the diverse perspectives and invaluable expertise that our advisors bring to our organization.
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We proudly feature Lia Stoll, Irene Sarpato, and Sahr Yillia in this issue.
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I will lead this initiative and guide you through these insightful stories. My commitment to advocacy and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the disability community makes me the perfect host for Global Advisor Corner.
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Stay tuned as we celebrate the individuals driving positive change and fostering a more inclusive society for all.
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See below to learn more about our distinguished Global Advisors.
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Lia Stoll, Accessibility Auditor, Content Writer, and Educator
Lia Stoll is a multifaceted professional dedicated to promoting disability inclusion and accessibility. She serves as an accessibility auditor for built environments, ensuring that public and private spaces are designed to be accessible to everyone. Lia's expertise in this area helps organizations comply with accessibility standards and create environments welcoming to all individuals, regardless of their abilities.
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In addition to her auditing work, Lia is a prolific content writer focused on empowering the disability community. Through her insightful articles and publications, she addresses critical issues related to disability inclusion, accessibility, and the rights of people with disabilities. Her writing is a valuable resource for individuals and organizations striving to foster a more inclusive society.
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Lia also brings her passion for education to her role as a teacher for blind and low-vision students. Her dedication to teaching and mentoring helps these students achieve their full potential and navigate the world with confidence and independence.
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Moreover, Lia is the Co-Founder of Lara Guide Dog School, an organization committed to training guide dogs and supporting individuals with visual impairments. Her work with the school underscores her commitment to enhancing mobility and independence for those with disabilities.
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As a Global Advisor for Billion Strong, Lia's extensive experience and unwavering commitment to accessibility and inclusion make her an invaluable asset to our mission. Her contributions help guide our efforts to unite and empower the disability community worldwide, driving meaningful change and promoting a more inclusive and equitable world for all.
To learn more about Lia, you can find her LinkedIn profile: Lia Stoll LinkedIn.
#WeAreBillionStrong
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Irene Sarpato, Diversity & Inclusion Champion, Advocate, and Storyteller
Irene Sarpato is a passionate and dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion, focusing on neurodivergence and disability.
Irene's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment is evident through her extensive experience and roles. She is a former Disability Employee Resource Group (ERG) Founder and Chair, where she spearheaded initiatives to support and empower employees with disabilities within her organization. Her leadership in this role has significantly impacted and promoted greater understanding and inclusion in the workplace.
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As a Diversity and inclusion Champion, Irene tirelessly advocates for the rights and recognition of neurodivergent individuals and people with disabilities. She uses her platform to educate and inspire others, challenging stereotypes and pushing for systemic change.
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Irene raises awareness of unconscious bias and microaggressions, educating people, employees, managers, and senior leaders on their impact on morale, self-confidence, and self-esteem through storytelling and authentic conversations. She loves sports and believes training and practicing together is the best way to make inclusion happen in everyday life.
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As a sparring partner and advisor, Irene coaches managers on DEI-related topics and inclusive behaviors, supporting them in discovering diversity, privilege, allyship, and compassionate leadership. She helps organizations develop and implement effective DEI programs, communications, and initiatives with the people, not just for them.
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Irene founded and chaired the Adidas disability-based Global ERG named World of Abilities. She has a proven track record in building ERGs and communities in corporate settings, coordinating, growing, empowering, and motivating groups of volunteers. Her expertise in this area is invaluable to our mission at Billion Strong.
As a #IamRemarkable Facilitator, Irene supports women and people from underrepresented groups in celebrating their achievements in the workplace and beyond. She is a passionate writer and digital enthusiast, skilled in written, verbal, verbal, and nonverbal communication.
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Irene's expertise and dedication are invaluable as a Global Advisor for Billion Strong. Her work helps guide our mission to unite and empower the global disability community, driving our vision of an inclusive and equitable society forward.
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Please visit Irene's LinkedIn profile at Irene Sarpato LinkedIn for more information.
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Sahr Yillia is a human rights defender, social entrepreneur, and expert in nonprofit organisational management.
Born in 1982 in Liberia/Sierra Leone, Sahr lost his sight due to measles. This personal experience fueled his passion for advocating for disability rights and finding solutions to change the status quo.
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Over the past twelve years, Sahr has been dedicated to working extensively in Sierra Leone and Liberia, engaging in research, advocacy, and campaigns during and after the fourteen-year civil conflict. He focuses on developing credible solutions to ongoing issues affecting persons with disabilities.
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Sahr's commitment has taken him to international workshops and seminars in India, South Korea, Ghana, and Kenya. Notably, he participated in the negotiating and drafting stages of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD).
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Despite facing numerous challenges as a human rights defender with a disability, Sahr's resilience and dedication remain unwavering. Recognizing his impactful work, he was selected for the 2013/2014 Protective Fellowship Scheme offered by the Centre for Applied Human Rights (CAHR).
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Sahr is a global advisor for Billion Strong, working on a project titled “Promoting Accessibility for Inclusive Development for Persons with Disabilities through Assistive Technologies.” The campaign's slogan, "Meeting more people means serving more needs," encapsulates his mission to enhance accessibility and inclusivity.
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Sahr Yillia’s extraordinary journey and unwavering commitment to disability rights make him a true inspiration. His work exemplifies what it means to drive positive change and foster an inclusive society.
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Stay tuned as we celebrate the individuals driving positive change and fostering a more inclusive society for all.
To learn more about Sahr Yillia, you can find his LinkedIn profile.
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ABOUT DEBRA RUH Debra Ruh is the founder and CEO of Ruh Global IMPACT and the Executive Chair and Co-founder of the Billion Strong Organization. The UN President’s office invited Debra to address the United Nations General Assembly at the Conference of State Parties' 9th session on May 13th, 2016. In 2022, LinkedIn selected Debra to be part of their first Creators to Accelerate #LICreatorAccelerator class. Twitter verified Debra in early 2022. She has been a US State Department global speaker and ambassador since 2018. She was nominated as a Global Goodwill Ambassador in 2018. She authorizes three books: Inclusion Branding (available in English, Spanish, Arabic, and Voice via Audible), Tapping into Hidden Human Capital, and Finding Your Voice using Social Media. Learn more at www.RuhGlobal.com and? https://www.billion-strong.org. Debra is a global influencer with over 300,000 followers on social media And co-founder of award-winning #AXSChat, one of the largest tweet chats in the world with over 8 billion tweets. She was named in the “Top 5% of Social Media Influencers” and “Top 0.1% of people talking about Disability Inclusion and Accessibility” by KLOUT, #15 in Digital Scouts, and Top 100 Global Digital Influencers in Sept 2018. Debra has been featured on CBS, ABC, NBC, Washington Post, INC, Entrepreneur, Forbes, Huffington Post, NY Times, Christian Science Monitor, etc.
ABOUT BILLION STRONG We are an identity and empowerment organization designed to bring the billions of voices of persons with disabilities, find the community's voice, fight for people with disabilities' rights, and highlight other activities locally, nationally, and globally. Billion Strong will embrace and support the community of disabilities, which includes entrepreneurs with disabilities and other diverse groups. This is done with professional development, training, mentoring, coaching education, and programs to ensure employers know how to find qualified candidates with disabilities worldwide. Billion Strong also supports Disability Persons Organizations (DPOs), so their voices are heard. The identity and empowerment organization works to build a community that supports corporations, entrepreneurs, service providers, non-profits, NGOs, DPOs, UN agencies, governments, and others that support the community of disabilities. Please join our free movement; we need advisors, donations, volunteers, and global voices. www.Billion-Strong.org
ABOUT RUH GLOBAL IMPACT Ruh Global IMPACT, a social enterprise whose cause is the Inclusion of People with Disabilities, was founded in 2013. We have brought disability inclusion to mainstream conversations. Our team has implemented inclusion branding, marketing, inclusive design, accessibility strategies, innovative & engaging built environments, systems, and smart cities for clients worldwide. We provide a unique set of Disability Inclusion and Accessibility solutions with a first-hand approach to every project. Learn about our services here. www.RuhGlobal.com
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·???????? Billion Strong Organization
·???????? Ruh Global IMPACT
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Researcher | Social Inclusion & Vulnerability | Advocacy & Public Policy| Project Management & Capacity building | Conflict Resolution, Migration & Policy Analysis
6 个月Thank you for publishing. I was curious what type of contributions are accepted for the newsletter? As a self advocate oscillating between USA and CH I am very interested in reading or contributing if possible. Thank you :)
Friends of the Disabled Assocaition
7 个月I'll keep this in mind
Lawyer │ Mediator │ Arbitration Counsel │ TEDx Speaker
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Chief Partnership Officer | Disability Advocate | Speaker | Duskin Leadership Training in Japan Alumna | Co-founder, Billion Strong.
7 个月Love our content. We are making progress and huge part of it is because of the help and support from our community.. can’t wait to feature our amazing global advisors. #WeAreBillionStrong
Mindset, Success, leadership & accountability Coach
7 个月Hi Debra, I enjoy your newsletter. I am inquiring to see if you allow others to put in articles or writ in your newsletter.