World Vision USA’s Post

We’re thrilled to announce that the July 15 kick-off event for the World Vision GESI Disability Forum in Malawi is now open for virtual participation! Register now to join us as an online participant.  This in-person and online event, hosted by World Vision Malawi and open to the public, will connect public sector donors, Malawi government leaders, organizations for persons with disabilities, project implementers, and youth dedicated to promoting inclusive communities. Both online and in-person participants will have the opportunity to hear a keynote address from the Republic of Malawi Ministry of Gender, Community Development, and Social Welfare and participate in interactive sessions featuring key donors, experts, implementers, and youth with disabilities who will share challenges, lessons learned, and valuable resources on:   🔸 disability programming,    🔸 empowering children with disabilities,    🔸 and increasing disability inclusion in fragile contexts, climate action, and emergency response. Breakout sessions on inclusive education, WASH and nutrition, rehabilitation services, and more will provide additional online and in-person opportunities to engage with experts, share ideas, and contribute to meaningful change. Following the public kick-off event, World Vision colleagues and partners will participate in learning and field visits showcasing innovative strategies and planning sessions to identify promising practices for policy revision and program enhancement.  World Vision is committed to inclusive education, effective case management, and the empowerment of children with disabilities. Through initiatives like the All Children Reading: A Grand Challenge for Development program and innovative community-based learning solutions, we strive to ensure every child, regardless of their abilities, has access to quality learning opportunities. Our comprehensive case management approach connects children in underserved communities with essential services, leveraging strong partnerships and digital tools. By amplifying the voices of children with disabilities and challenging societal norms, we empower them to achieve their full potential and participate meaningfully in their communities. Register now and be a part of this transformative journey! https://lnkd.in/ebF2RXye 

All Play = All Children 💜 Children with disabilities rarely get to engage in free play or unstructured leisure, although self-directed exploration and activities are equally important for their development. In the 1980s, city governments in the USA were called upon to make play and recreation facilities accessible to all people with disabilities or special needs. Most cities responded in the simplest of ways by building ramps into parks and playgrounds to make them accessible to children with wheelchairs. But there are many special needs; to respond only to children in wheelchairs is tokenism. It is important to think not only about physical access but also about access to other children. Children, both with and without special needs, should have access to integrated play. Segregating children damages their social development, creating alienation and fear of people who are different from themselves. All play and recreation designs and programs should maximize play opportunities for all and minimize the barriers that isolate young people from their peers. In the past, accessibility often meant just ramps. But true inclusion needs more! We need playgrounds where children with and without disabilities can play side-by-side. Play is how kids learn! It builds social skills, problem-solving abilities and lets them explore their creativity. Every child deserves this chance. In Africa (2001), the United Nations commissioned the Washington Group (WG) to standardize methods of gathering data and generating indicators on disabilities in Africa. Since then, African countries have progressed at different paces regarding disability rights and accessibility legislation. Some nations have been more proactive than others. We need integrated play that fosters social development and dismantles fear of difference. #Accessibility #Inclusion #Education #Disability #IntegratedPlay

We’re thrilled to announce that the July 15 kick-off event for the World Vision GESI Disability Forum in Malawi is now open for virtual participation! Register now to join us as an online participant. This in-person and online event, hosted by !World Vision Malawi and open to the public, will connect public sector donors, Malawi government leaders, organizations for persons with disabilities, project implementers, and youth dedicated to promoting inclusive communities. Both online and in-person participants will have the opportunity to hear a keynote address from the Republic of Malawi Ministry of Gender, Community Development, and Social Welfare and participate in interactive sessions featuring key donors, experts, implementers, and youth with disabilities who will share challenges, lessons learned, and valuable resources on: 🔸 disability programming, 🔸 empowering children with disabilities, 🔸 and increasing disability inclusion in fragile contexts, climate action, and emergency response. Breakout sessions on inclusive education, WASH and nutrition, rehabilitation services, and more will provide additional online and in-person opportunities to engage with experts, share ideas, and contribute to meaningful change. Following the public kick-off event, World Vision colleagues and partners will participate in learning and field visits showcasing innovative strategies and planning sessions to identify promising practices for policy revision and program enhancement. World Vision is committed to inclusive education, effective case management, and the empowerment of children with disabilities. Through initiatives like the All Children Reading: A Grand Challenge for Development program and innovative community-based learning solutions, we strive to ensure every child, regardless of their abilities, has access to quality learning opportunities. Our comprehensive case management approach connects children in underserved communities with essential services, leveraging strong partnerships and digital tools. By amplifying the voices of children with disabilities and challenging societal norms, we empower them to achieve their full potential and participate meaningfully in their communities. Register now and be a part of this transformative journey! https://lnkd.in/ebF2RXye @WorldVisionUSA

Empowering Financial Inclusion for Cambodian People with Disabilities: A Pathway to Equity and Integration Ensuring that financial inclusion strategies benefit Cambodian people with disabilities is not just a matter of equity; it's a pathway to economic empowerment and social integration. With approximately 10% of Cambodia's population living with disabilities, creating accessible financial services is imperative for fostering inclusive growth. The key to ensuring that financial inclusion strategies effectively help Cambodian people with disabilities lies in several critical approaches. First, it involves developing tailored financial products and services that cater to the diverse needs and capabilities of individuals with disabilities. This includes accessible banking facilities, digital financial tools that accommodate different impairments, and financial literacy programs specifically designed for this demographic. Secondly, collaboration between government agencies, financial institutions, and disability advocacy organizations is essential. By working together, these stakeholders can address systemic barriers, advocate for policy reforms that promote accessibility, and ensure that financial institutions follow disability rights legislation. Furthermore, raising awareness and providing education about financial rights and opportunities among people with disabilities is crucial. Empowering individuals with knowledge enables them to make informed financial decisions, manage their resources effectively, and actively take part in economic activities. In conclusion, achieving meaningful financial inclusion for Cambodian people with disabilities requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society. By developing inclusive financial strategies, fostering collaboration, and empowering individuals through education, we can create an environment where everyone, regardless of ability, has equal access to financial resources and opportunities. This not only strengthens our economy but also enhances social cohesion and equity across our nation.

📃Scientific paper: The experiences of parents of children living with disabilities at Lehlaba Protective Workshop in Sekhukhune district of Limpopo province Abstract: BACKGROUND: Parents of children with disabilities have faced difficulties in looking after their children, be it socially, economically and financially. Parents in rural areas are mainly left with a huge burden, as there is a lack of services and support from both the state and non-governmental organisations. Parents in Sekhukhune district, a rural area in Limpopo province of South Africa, face challenges in raising their disabled children related to lack of resources and lack of services at their disposal. OBJECTIVES: This study focuses on the experiences and life circumstances faced by parents of children living with different types of disabilities at Lehlaba Protective Workshop in Sekhukhune district of Limpopo province, South Africa. METHOD: The study consisted of 14 participants who are parents of children living with disabilities. An interview guide with a set of questions was utilised to gather data. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data and themes that emerged were grouped together. RESULTS: Themes that emerged from the data showed that most of the participants had varying understandings on the causes of disabilities to their children. The participants also were of the view that a ‘cure’ for disability was available medically, spiritually or through traditional African medicine. The study also brought the notion of absent fathers, as most men do not want to be associated with children who are disabled. Stigmatisation of the parents was also a them... Continued on ES/IODE ➡️ https://etcse.fr/5DXu7 ------- If you find this interesting, feel free to follow, comment and share. We need your help to enhance our visibility, so that our platform continues to serve you.

Accessibility for persons with disabilities has since transcended mere construction of ramps in front of buildings! This is because Accessibility is not limited to persons with physical disabilities alone. For Accessibility to be holistic and inclusive, it must take into cognisance ab initio the different needs of people with different disabilities based on the peculiarities of their impairments. Yesterday, the Natuonal Commission fir Persons with disabilities in it's unrelenting efforts in improving access for persons with disabilities, convened a 2 day capacity building workshop to strengthen capacity of stakeholders across the country on best practices in ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities across board. This is geared towards improving access to basic amenities, services and socio-economic opportunities. This training is indeed crucial at this time especially as the 5 year moratorium for remodeling of all public buildings has elapsed and also because efforts have been heightened to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 and other local and international instruments that promote inclusion of persons with disabilities as of Right. IFA was among the OPDs invited to be a part of this landmark event. We will continue to support the mandate of the NCPWD through the support of local and international development partners so that inclusion of persons with disabilities becomes a norm in our society. As a person with disability championing the cause of persons with disabilities, I must commend the efforts of the commission in providing such a platform for all relevant stakeholders to better understand what accessibility means so that our programming can be better tailored to suit the appropriate need(s) per time. My trip as a Mandela Washington Fellow exposed me to the intentionality that is put into ensuring that programs, events, technology and the built environment are made accessible for persons with disabilities and I would like to see that in practice in Nigeria and other developing countries where inclusion is understood to be a Right and not a privilege, thus shifting totally from the charity or social model to the Human rights model of disability. Remember, inclusion is everyone's business! So do your part! Inclusive Friends Association @ncpwd U.S. Department of State - Careers for Individuals with Disabilities Mandela Washington Fellowship U.S. Department of State United Nations UN Women #DisabilityRights #Inclusion #Humanrights

**Happy Africa Day! As we celebrate the progress and diversity of our continent, it's important to examine how far we've come in supporting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities across Africa.** In Zimbabwe, there have been some noteworthy developments in recent years, though significant challenges remain. The country ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2013, which was an important step in aligning national laws and policies with international standards. Zimbabwe launched National Disability Policy in June 2021. This helps enshrine the rights of PWDs in the legal framework. However, implementation and enforcement of these laws remains uneven, especially outside urban centers. Access to education, healthcare, and employment for PWDs in Zimbabwe is still severely limited compared to the general population. Societal stigma and lack of inclusive infrastructure create major barriers. Only an estimated 10-20% of children with disabilities are enrolled in school. Funding for disability programs and rehabilitation services is chronically low, leaving many PWDs without the support they need. Zimbabwe spends less than 0.5% of its health budget on disability-related services. Nonetheless, there are some encouraging signs. Organizations of persons with disabilities (OPD) are becoming more vocal advocates, pushing for greater inclusion. Some businesses are making strides in hiring PWDs. And awareness-raising campaigns are gradually changing cultural attitudes. On this Africa Day, the work of advancing accessibility, equal rights, and opportunity for PWDs in Zimbabwe and across the continent must continue. With sustained commitment and collaboration, we can build a more just, inclusive, and equitable future for all Africans.

Children with Disabilities in Sudan: Facing Challenges Amidst Complexities In Sudan, children with disabilities encounter numerous challenges amidst the prevailing hardships and intricate circumstances. Here are some of the obstacles they face: 1. Displacement and Conflict: • Ongoing conflicts and forced displacement significantly impact the lives of children with disabilities in Sudan. • Wars and unrest can lead to the loss of access to basic services, education, and healthcare. 2. Lack of Healthcare and Educational Services: • Sudan's healthcare and educational infrastructure suffers from a significant deficit. • This affects children with disabilities who require specialized care and appropriate education. 3. Discrimination and Marginalization: • Children with disabilities may face discrimination and marginalization within society. • They may experience exclusion and a lack of full participation in daily life. 4. Lack of Social and Psychological Support: • Children with disabilities require strong social and psychological support to overcome challenges. • They may lack such support amidst challenging circumstances. 5. Access to Aid and Services: • Children with disabilities may find it difficult to access appropriate services and aid. • This may be due to displacement or the lack of infrastructure. Despite these challenges, hope remains for improving the situation. Non-profit organizations and community efforts can play a vital role in providing support and assistance to children with disabilities in Sudan. Here are some additional elements to consider: • The importance of early intervention: Early intervention services can significantly improve the development and quality of life for children with disabilities. • The need for inclusive education: Children with disabilities should have access to inclusive education that meets their individual needs. • The role of families and caregivers: Families and caregivers play a crucial role in supporting children with disabilities. They should be provided with the necessary resources and training. • The importance of advocacy and awareness: Raising awareness about the rights and needs of children with disabilities is essential to promoting their inclusion and participation in society. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for children with disabilities in Sudan, enabling them to reach their full potential and live fulfilling lives. #Sudan #ChildrenWithDisabilities #Challenges #Support #Hope

Introducing Tech-Abled: Igniting Innovation for and by Persons with Disabilities In a world shaped by technological advancements, a critical gap remains in innovation for persons with disabilities (PWDs). With approximately 12% of Uganda's population living with a disability, millions face significant barriers to education, employment, and entrepreneurship, hindering their growth and limiting community potential. Enter Tech-Abled—a groundbreaking initiative designed to harness the creativity of PWD innovators and innovators for PWDs. Tech-Abled is both a physical and virtual platform that provides catalytic support for enterprises focusing on persons with disabilities in Africa, starting with Uganda. Tech-Abled believes that disability can inspire solutions that drive economic growth and social progress. Our mission is to unlock the immense potential of PWD innovators while bridging the gap between innovative ideas and essential resources. We do this through six key pillars: 1. Empowering PWD Innovators: Providing access to skills training, mentorship, and funding opportunities to fuel entrepreneurial spirit. 2. Championing Inclusive Design: Promoting products and services that incorporate accessibility, ensuring they meet diverse user needs. 3. Strengthening Economic Advocacy & Policy: Collaborating with policymakers, businesses, and NGOs to raise awareness and influence legislation supporting PWD innovation. 4. Nurturing Collaboration & Partnerships: Building cross-sector alliances to foster co-creation and knowledge exchange for a more inclusive society. 5. Investing in Research & Development: Supporting the development of assistive technologies and open innovation that enhances the quality of life for PWDs. 6. Empowering Product Visibility: Innovating solutions to enhance the visibility and market reach of products created by PWDs. Tech-Abled envisions an Africa where disability is not a limitation but a springboard for innovative solutions. By empowering PWD innovators, we drive broader social and economic change. Together, we can create a future where innovation knows no boundaries—one where persons with disabilities lead in designing solutions that impact lives and economies. Welcome to Tech-Abled: the future of inclusive innovation starts here.

As part of our #PurpleTuesday pledge to expand our knowledge and understanding of non-visible disabilities, we invite charities and advocates to present to our team. Over time, we will increase the range of non-visible conditions in our Invisible disabilities index.⠀ At the end of January, Dorothy and her team, David, Marcus and Maria from the charity @The Sunnybank Trust, joined us to talk about their advocacy for raising awareness of learning disabilities and how important inclusion is. Below are some staggering statistics specific to people with learning disabilities: 🌻 Between 5% to 6% of people are in employment 🌻 50 times more likely to experience mental health issues 🌻 Life expectancy is 20 years younger However, the work that The Sunnybank Trust and other charities and groups do to build confidence and encourage teamwork and social skills all grow each person's unique attributes, skills and talents, resulting in positive outcomes, meaning that the stats don't have to be the norm. And, importantly, let adults have control over their own lives. Subscribe and follow The Sunflower Conversations so you don't miss the 'coming soon' - Learning disabilities with Dorothy Watson, Sunnybank Trust and Marcus Tanner here https://bit.ly/373paXZ Visit the Invisible disabilities index to learn more about a wide range of invisible disabilities https://bit.ly/49Jdyb6 Business members will also gain access to suggested workplace adjustments. #LearningDisability ALT: 1. Green graphic with a yellow Sunflower. Text reads: Learning disabilities. Allow more time, Avoid difficult language, Listen.