Tiffany Songvilay’s Post

Today is International Day of Persons with Disabilities. It’s a day to remind everyone about the many contributions of people with disabilities and the work needed to drive progress together. This matters because sadly the disability divide is still a thing. People with disabilities are twice as likely to be unemployed, some may face challenges from social attitudes, misconceptions about disabilities including stigma and discrimination, physical, policy and communication barriers. There's a lot to also be optimistic about. Many Governments around the world are investing in legislation to enshrine the rights of people with disabilities, and the role AI is already playing here in breaking down barriers, with accessible tech is a force for good.   The theme for this years moment is “amplifying leadership” which speaks to the global disability rights movement’s slogan “Nothing About Us Without Us”. It connotes the basic requirements of participation, representation and inclusion, and calls for persons with disabilities and allies to actively shape the conditions of their lives. What better backdrop to recognise on this day the inspiring work of Microsoft’s Disability Employee Resource Group (ERG) leaders. This team are a driving force in our progress, both within Microsoft and beyond, in close partnership with our accessibility, HR teams & sponsors. Our ERG’s help us scale our efforts, empower our employees and shape the future of Microsoft innovation. We make much of what we do available publicly, so please do take a moment to check out the resources, and consider disability inclusion both today and ongoing: ✅ Accessibility Resources: https://lnkd.in/e6zRTi7w ✅ Bridging the disability divide with AI: https://lnkd.in/e6JzEA85 ✅ Digital Accessibility for the modern workplace: https://lnkd.in/ehD6iEZp? #InternationalDayOfPersonsWithDisabilities #IDPD #MicrosoftLife #Inclusion #DisabilityInclusion #Accessibility Michael Vermeersch Csaba Markus Andreas Moises Sefer Peshku Floris Horsman Jorn Salomons Marilena Koumartzaki Christophe Desproges (He, Him, His) Samuela Finn Pheena Lonergan Yossi S. Philippe Trotin Sofia Svensk Karlsson Maike Hilliges (she/her)

🌍 Today, December 3rd, marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD). While this day celebrates the diverse contributions of people with disabilities, it’s also a moment to reflect on the barriers that persist—especially for those with invisible disabilities. 💡 Neuroinclusion and disability inclusion isn’t just about awareness—it’s about actively creating spaces where individuals feel valued, understood, and supported. It’s recognizing that diversity in thought, communication, and problem-solving is a strength, not a challenge to overcome. 🛠 Active allyship starts with action: 1️⃣ Educate Yourself: Learn about neurodivergence/ disability experiences. Move beyond stereotypes and seek to understand lived experiences. 2️⃣ Create Inclusive Workspaces: Advocate for flexible work arrangements, sensory-friendly environments, and clear communication styles. This also means reducing the burden on the individual to ask for accommodations. Make proactive proposals and remember that for an individual with a disability, it can be extremely tiring to constantly advocate for oneself. 3️⃣ Speak Up: Challenge stigma when you see it—whether in meetings, policies, or casual conversations. Offer support proactively. 4️⃣ Ask, Don’t Assume: Inclusion starts with listening. Engage in meaningful dialogue about what support looks like for each individual. Inclusion is more than a checklist—it’s an ongoing commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability or neurotype, has the opportunity to thrive. To my network: How are you championing neuroinclusion and active allyship in your community or workplace? #IDPWD #Neuroinclusion #ActiveAllyship #InclusionMatters #DiversityAndInclusion #neurodiversity

📣Accessibility in Disability 🎙️Up for Discussion with Meenu Bhambhani 👉Watch now: https://ow.ly/Q5wc50Sp3UZ ------ "For people with disabilities, [if] you do not provide them access, you are actually creating a barrier to even entering at the workplace. How do they enter the workplace if they do not have education? Unless we address the issues at systems level, the ripple effect doesn't happen. So, the systemic change has to happen at the education level…" – Meenu Bhambhani, Regional Head and VP, Global Inclusion, Diversity and Equity at State Street. This episode of Up for Discussion features Meenu Bhambhani from State Street, delves into the topic of disability inclusion and the rapidly advancing AI and accessibility landscape, in conversation with our Executive Director Sandhya Manoj. Watch the video to learn about: 👉 How lack of accessibility affects the inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace 👉 Use of accessibility tools in the workplace and the apprehensions around them 👉 What organisations need to do to empower, enable and support people with disabilities, while making workplaces more accessible Follow the link to watch the full episode! #IMPACTxAsia #SocialImpact #DEI #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #DisabilityInclusion #AccessibilityForAll #InclusiveWorkplace #AI

Yesterday was #International Day of Persons with Disability, a day to promote community awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with #disability. 1 in 5 people have disability, increasing to 2 in 5 as people age. This is not a small cohort of people. This year’s theme Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future isn’t a one-day sentiment. This is a #calltoaction for #society to build #inclusion by collectively enacting the theme. We all have a part to play. How can you do this? 😀 Talk about access and inclusion of people with disability when it’s not IDOPWD. Discuss it in your sporting teams, in your workplace and consider it if you are lucky enough to build a home. 📣 Raise the profile of people when they aren’t in the room to do it themselves. Act as a connector to match people to opportunities. 💬 Consider language and how using outdated terms related to physical or mental disability can harm or ostracize. 🤝 Hire people with disability. Multiple studies have shown that people with disability record productivity rates equal or greater than other workers, have longer job tenure, higher job satisfaction and better attendance. 🪑 Consider who is at the table when making decisions about whole workplaces, teams or communities. Not enough seats? Get a bigger table. 🙌 When we improve access and inclusion for one section of society, it benefits everyone. #IDoPWD #Inclusion

It’s time to take meaningful action to improve the socio-economic conditions of individuals with disabilities in our society. These individuals face significant challenges, including barriers to employment, limited accessibility, and systemic discrimination, which prevent them from fully participating in the workforce and realizing their potential. While progress has been made in increasing awareness and accessibility, much remains to be done. Discrimination, lack of job opportunities, and insufficient support systems continue to hold many individuals with disabilities back from thriving personally and professionally. As a society, we must step up. We need to foster a more inclusive and accessible environment, empowering individuals with disabilities with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. I encourage everyone to join me in advocating for disability rights and contributing to a more equitable future. By working together, we can ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to meaningful employment and the chance to contribute to the economy. Let’s make inclusion and equity a priority. #DisabilityRights #Inclusion #Equality Actionable Steps to Support Employment for Individuals with Disabilities 1. Enhance Accessibility in Workplaces Encourage employers to make physical spaces and digital platforms accessible. Implement assistive technologies to accommodate diverse needs. 2. Promote Inclusive Hiring Practices Provide training for HR professionals to eliminate biases in recruitment processes. Create partnerships between businesses and disability advocacy groups to develop inclusive job placement programs. 3. Offer Skills Development and Training Establish mentorship and vocational training programs tailored to individuals with disabilities. Ensure equal access to education and skill-building resources. 4. Strengthen Legal Protections and Advocacy Enforce anti-discrimination laws in hiring and workplace policies. Advocate for increased government funding for programs supporting individuals with disabilities. 5. Encourage Flexible Work Options Promote remote work and flexible scheduling to accommodate different needs. Offer accommodations like adjusted work hours and specialized equipment. 6. Foster a Culture of Inclusion Conduct regular awareness programs and workshops in workplaces to reduce stigma. Celebrate the contributions of employees with disabilities to highlight their value. I urge all of my connections to join me in advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities and working towards a more equitable society for all. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for individuals with disabilities. #disabilityrights #equality #inclusion #socialchange By implementing these steps, we can create meaningful change, empower individuals with disabilities, and build a workforce that

Promoting Awareness and Inclusion Today, i want to take a moment to reflect on something close to my heart: disability awareness and inclusion. 💡 What is Disability? Disability comes in many forms, physical, sensory, intellectual, or emotional and affects millions of people worldwide. But being disabled doesn’t mean someone is incapable. Every person has unique strengths, abilities, and talents. 🤝 Why Inclusion Matters: Inclusion isn’t just about providing accessibility; it’s about ensuring everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. People with disabilities deserve equal opportunities in education, employment, and social spaces. Accessible spaces, inclusive conversations, and an open heart can make all the difference! 💬 Language Matters: Be mindful of the words we use when speaking about or with persons with disabilities. Use empowering and respectful language. For example, instead of saying “disabled person,” consider “person with a disability.” 🌍 How Can We Help? Educate Ourselves: Learn more about disabilities and break down stereotypes. Advocate for Accessibility: Support policies that ensure public spaces, workplaces, and technology are accessible to all. Support Inclusivity: Include people with disabilities in social activities, workplaces, and leadership roles. Let’s work together to create a world where disability isn’t a barrier but a reminder of the strength in diversity. If you have stories or experiences you'd like to share about disability or inclusion, feel free to comment below. Let’s start a meaningful conversation! #Inclusion #DisabilityAwareness #DiversityMatters

We are thrilled to announce the release of our latest podcast episode on "Accessibility in the Workplace"! Join us as we delve into the crucial topic of creating inclusive environments for individuals with disabilities. Our special guest, Meenu Bhambhani from State Street has a very interesting conversation with Sandhya Manoj from Community Business where she shares her invaluable insights and experiences in advocating for accessibility and inclusivity. In this episode, we cover: 🔹 Lack of accessibility affecting inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PwD) in the workplace. 🔹New and upcoming accessibility tools in the market. 🔹 Hesitation in adopting AI by organisations even though it's been a game changer for PwDs. 🔹 Best Practices and recommendations for organisations to kickstart their inclusion journey. Whether you are an employer, an employee, or someone passionate about inclusivity, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you make a positive impact. #Accessibility #Inclusion #Disability #InclusiveWorkplace #Podcast #Diversity #InclusionMatters #EqualOpportunity #StateStreet

MAKING THE DIGITAL WORLD ACCESSIBLE FOR EVERYONE Disability mainstreaming is about creating a world where everyone has an equal chance to succeed, and digital accessibility is the heart of that mission. Imagine a student with a visual impairment navigating their online classes effortlessly or a job seeker with limited mobility accessing remote opportunities without barriers. That’s the power of accessible design. Disability mainstreaming isn’t just a policy, it’s a commitment to inclusion, equality, and empowerment. Digital accessibility plays a crucial role in making this vision a reality by; ✅ Breaking Barriers: Accessible digital platforms allow Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to connect, learn, and contribute without limitations. ✅ Promoting Participation: By ensuring websites, apps, and content are inclusive, we open doors to education, employment, and public engagement for all. ✅ Driving Innovation: Accessible design benefits everyone (voice commands, captions, and high-contrast modes). ✅ Championing Equality: A digitally inclusive world ensures no one is left behind in our fast-evolving tech landscape. By ensuring websites, apps, and digital tools work for everyone, we’re not just breaking down barriers; we’re opening doors to opportunity, connection, and growth for millions of people with disabilities. Inclusion starts with small changes that make a big difference. We should all strive to build a digital world where everyone belongs. Disability:IN National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) Harun M. Hassan, E.B.S Squaddly #DigitalAccessibility | #DisabilityInclusion | #DisabilityAwareness | #DisabilityRights [photo credit: Khanchit Khirisutchalual]

The social model of disability and day-to-day life in places like work offer contrasting viewpoints on how those of us with disabilities experience the world. Social Model of Disability: - Developed by disability rights activists in the 1970s and 80s. - Focuses on societal barriers that disable people, not their impairments. - Examples of barriers are physical (inaccessible buildings), attitudinal (preconceptions about ability), and systemic (lack of disability accommodations). - If society addressed these barriers, we with impairments wouldn't be disabled. The social model provides a framework for understanding the root causes of disability, while day-to-day life reflects the situations those of us with disabilities navigate. In a perfect world informed by the social model, workplaces would proactively remove barriers to create a genuinely inclusive environment. This might involve: - Providing accessible work materials - Offering assistive technologies - Implementing flexible work arrangements By addressing these aspects, workplaces can empower disabled people to succeed and contribute their talents. Is your employer/company becoming more accessible? #SundayThoughts #NationalEpilepsyWeek #HiddenDisabilities #DisabilityInclusion #WorkplaceEquality Image Description: Social model of disability. The problem is lack of access in society. No BSL interpreter. Guide dogs not allowed into buildings. No suitable assistance on public transport. Prejudice language. Lack of and poor media presentation. Internal/external negative perceptions. No ramp/lift.

Today is International Day of Persons with Disabilities—a day to reflect, celebrate, and most importantly, take action. As an autistic human with ADHD and Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), I’ve spent much of my life navigating a world designed for the neurotypical and able-bodied. It hasn’t always been easy, but at TD, I’ve found a place where my voice is heard, my differences are embraced, and real change is happening. The stats speak for themselves: 1 in 5 people in North America has a disability, yet barriers remain a daily reality for many (CDC, 2023). A 2023 Accenture study found that companies leading in disability inclusion are 28% more likely to outperform financially. This isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do. Creating inclusive workplaces doesn’t just benefit those of us with disabilities—it enhances experiences for everyone. This year, TD hosted its Annual Disability Inclusion Summit, and I couldn’t have been prouder to be part of a company committed to doing better. From the launch of the TD Accessibility Adapter and the Accessibility Office to fostering Safe Spaces where diverse voices are welcomed and respected, TD continues to set the standard for inclusion. Hearing Jennie Platt’s story at the Summit resonated deeply. It was a reminder that our journeys—unmasking, embracing our identities, and sharing our truths—can inspire change. Tiffany A. Yu, MSc from Diversability inspired us, to adopt an inclusive-first mindset. Something I strive to influence through my everyday actions. Inspiring inclusive first experiences in the world through small, deliberate changes. I was honoured to be nominated as a Disability Change Maker by my peers. While I didn’t win, the recognition fuels my drive to continue advocating for a world where disability is not a barrier, but a strength to create safe spaces for everyone to be heard. To ask the hard questions. To be courageous enough to change. Together, we can build a world that truly values every voice. #InclusionMatters #InternationalDayofPersonsWithDisabilities #DisabilityAdvocate #BetterTogether