Disability Thought Leader, Empathy Coach, UCY Associate, Writer, ArtActivist, Neofytos Disability Culture Org., Sunday School
"When #Art #Unites: A Vision for Europe" #TogetherWeAreBetter #Europe is a place built on the values of inclusion, solidarity, and collaboration. Yet, these values require people willing to fight for their preservation and promotion. As a woman who has dedicated her life to studying, creating, and advancing a culture of inclusion, I have experienced firsthand the challenge of bringing about change. Organizing the First European Festival of Art and Disability Culture #DIS was not merely a cultural celebration—it was a declaration that art can break barriers and bring together people who are often unseen. However, every attempt to drive change encounters obstacles. My homeland, which I deeply cherish, has not embraced my work as I had hoped. Instead, I often face skepticism and resistance born from fear of the new and unfamiliar. This resistance, rather than stopping me, strengthens me. It reminds me of the importance of my mission. Our festival demonstrated that art knows no borders. Through the participation of artists, experts, adults, children, and groups from across Europe, we succeeded in sending a message that #diversity is a #source of #strength, not division. #Art is a #tool for #connection. I am proud that, through this festival, we were able to provide a platform for people to speak, create, and feel that they belong. Because, in the end, what truly unites us is the belief that #TogetherWeAreBetter. #ArtUnites #InclusionMatters #TogetherWeAreBetter #CulturalDiversity #DisabilityRights #EuropeanValues #ArtForChange #SocialInclusion #DisabilityCulture #CulturalInclusion #LeadershipForChange #BreakingBarriers
