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 

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

🌍 Disability Is Not Inability - A Journey from the Edges to the Forefront 🌟 Did you know that 16% of the world's population live with disabilities? That's one in every six of us, often pushed to the margins of society, facing barriers to full participation and critical care. The story of Boniface from Malawi, born blind, echoes this, yet also tells a tale of transformation and hope. Despite being deprived of an education and facing exploitation, Boniface's community, through World Relief's training, saw a renaissance in disability inclusion. His gifts in leadership and singing were embraced, showing us that disability does not diminish the human spirit. My own journey parallels Boniface's. Labelled by the DHSS - now the Department for Work and Pensions - as having an "inability" due to congenital sight loss, I was once seen only as a candidate for low-paid work. But through determination and resilience, I overcame these societal labels to become the Managing Director of two successful businesses and a freelance broadcast/print journalist. Our experiences underline a universal truth: disability is not inability. It's a testament to the unyielding human spirit that thrives when given a chance. 🔗 To dive deeper into disability inclusive development and learn more about my story, check out the World Relief Annual Report [here https://lnkd.in/gmcf-_DY (and visit my About Page [here] https://lnkd.in/g9CB5H8g . Together, let’s continue to champion inclusivity and recognise the invaluable contributions of all individuals, regardless of disability. #DisabilityInclusion #Leadership #Resilience #WorldRelief #SocialChange

Did you know that most people with disabilities are found in the rural areas of Africa? Did you know that most disabilities can be prevented if rightful measures are put in place? Here are some of the improvements that can be done to the rural community. 1. Access to Healthcare:   - Improve healthcare infrastructure and facilities in rural areas.   - Increase the availability of affordable and accessible healthcare services.   - Conduct regular health outreach programs to remote communities. 2. Preventive Healthcare:   - Promote awareness about preventive healthcare measures, such as vaccinations, prenatal care, and nutritional education.   - Implement screening programs for common conditions that can lead to disabilities. 3. Education and Awareness:   - Raise awareness about the causes and prevention of disabilities through community-based education programs.   - Provide information on proper nutrition, hygiene, and lifestyle choices to prevent health issues. 4. Early Intervention:   - Establish early intervention programs to identify and address disabilities in their early stages.   - Train healthcare workers, community health workers, and educators to recognize signs of disabilities and provide timely support. 5. Rehabilitation Services:   - Ensure access to rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive devices.   - Support the training of local healthcare professionals in rehabilitation techniques. 6. Inclusive Education:   - Promote inclusive education to ensure that children with disabilities have equal access to educational opportunities.   - Train teachers to accommodate diverse learning needs and create accessible learning environments. 7. Poverty Alleviation:   - Implement poverty reduction programs to address the socio-economic factors that contribute to disabilities.   - Provide vocational training and employment opportunities for people with disabilities to enhance their economic independence. 8. Infrastructure Development:   - Improve infrastructure, including transportation and housing, to make it more accessible for people with disabilities.   - Ensure that public spaces and buildings comply with accessibility standards. 9. Advocacy and Policy Development:   - Advocate for disability-inclusive policies at local, regional, and national levels.   - Strengthen and enforce existing policies that protect the rights of people with disabilities. Collaboration between governments, non-governmental organizations (UNICEF, United Nations, USAID, Sightsavers etc.), healthcare professionals, and local communities is essential for the successful implementation of these strategies. By addressing the root causes and implementing preventive measures, it is possible to reduce the prevalence of avoidable disabilities in rural areas in Africa. #disabilityrights #disability #disabilitysupport #africa

Today, The Giving Genie celebrates National Disability Independence Day on July 26th, commemorating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. This day is not only a celebration of progress in disability rights but also a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities worldwide, including in Mozambique. Since October 2017, the province of Cabo Delgado in Northern Mozambique has been severely affected by insecurity due to attacks by non-state armed groups. This has had a profound impact on conflict-affected host communities, displaced individuals, and those left behind. Currently, an estimated 1.5 million people are living in protracted displacement, according to the International Organisation of Migration (IOM). Among these vulnerable populations are women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, who face compounded risks during humanitarian crises. Mozambique’s population census indicates that 2.6% of its population lives with a disability, although this figure is likely underestimated due to challenges in data collection exacerbated by the ongoing conflict. Globally, approximately 200 million children live with disabilities, highlighting the urgent need for tailored support in emergencies. Research underscores the heightened vulnerabilities of children with disabilities in disaster situations, including increased poverty rates, greater exposure to risks, and educational disruptions. At The Giving Genie, we are dedicated to empowering underserved communities through education, resources, and advocacy. Our mission ensures that all individuals, including those with disabilities, are included, valued, and supported in times of crisis and beyond. #NationalDisabilityIndependenceDay #EmpowerMozambique #DisabilityAwareness #InclusiveSupport #GivingGenie #adaactof1990 Together, let’s foster a more inclusive and resilient future where every individual can thrive.

Today, The Giving Genie celebrates National Disability Independence Day on July 26th, commemorating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. This day is not only a celebration of progress in disability rights but also a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities worldwide, including in Mozambique. Since October 2017, the province of Cabo Delgado in Northern Mozambique has been severely affected by insecurity due to attacks by non-state armed groups. This has had a profound impact on conflict-affected host communities, displaced individuals, and those left behind. Currently, an estimated 1.5 million people are living in protracted displacement, according to the International Organisation of Migration (IOM). Among these vulnerable populations are women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, who face compounded risks during humanitarian crises. Mozambique’s population census indicates that 2.6% of its population lives with a disability, although this figure is likely underestimated due to challenges in data collection exacerbated by the ongoing conflict. Globally, approximately 200 million children live with disabilities, highlighting the urgent need for tailored support in emergencies. Research underscores the heightened vulnerabilities of children with disabilities in disaster situations, including increased poverty rates, greater exposure to risks, and educational disruptions. At The Giving Genie, we are dedicated to empowering underserved communities through education, resources, and advocacy. Our mission ensures that all individuals, including those with disabilities, are included, valued, and supported in times of crisis and beyond. #NationalDisabilityIndependenceDay #EmpowerMozambique #DisabilityAwareness #InclusiveSupport #GivingGenie #adaactof1990 Together, let’s foster a more inclusive and resilient future where every individual can thrive.

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.

**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.

Understanding Child Disability in Ghana: A Call for Awareness and Support Child disability remains a significant issue in Ghana, yet it often exists in the shadows of public discourse. In many communities across the country, children with disabilities face numerous challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, and social support systems. One of the primary obstacles is the stigma and discrimination associated with disability, which can lead to social exclusion and marginalization. This stigma often stems from misconceptions and cultural beliefs about the causes of disabilities, perpetuating a cycle of neglect and isolation for affected children and their families. Access to education is another critical issue. Many children with disabilities in Ghana do not have equal opportunities to attend school due to physical barriers, lack of specialized resources, and inadequate support systems. This denies them the chance to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. Furthermore, healthcare services for children with disabilities are often insufficient, with limited access to specialized care and therapy. This neglect can have severe consequences for their overall well-being and development. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, community leaders, and the general public. Awareness campaigns are crucial for dispelling myths and stereotypes surrounding disability, promoting inclusivity, and fostering empathy and support for affected children and their families. Moreover, there is a pressing need for policy reforms and investments in infrastructure and resources to ensure that children with disabilities have equal access to education, healthcare, and social services. This includes implementing inclusive education programs, providing assistive devices and therapies, and training healthcare professionals to support the unique needs of children with disabilities. Ultimately, creating a more inclusive society for children with disabilities in Ghana requires a collective commitment to uphold their rights, dignity, and well-being. By raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and fostering a culture of acceptance and support, we can build a brighter future where every child, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive.

Disability inclusion in family strengthening programs within the care reforms is crucial. Today, we spotlight Changing the Way We Care – Help Orphans (CTWWC), Kenya's impactful approach to disability inclusion and how they have applied it to their mission of caring for children across Kenya. Through their collaboration with the National Council of Persons with Disability and the Directorate of Children’s Services, they have invested in disability inclusion approaches, including: 1️⃣ Mapping and intervention: Identifying families and children living with disabilities and delivering tailored services through case management ensures that every child's unique needs are met. 2️⃣ Inclusive parenting sessions: By ensuring that parenting sessions are disability-inclusive, they help promote understanding and support for the children within families. This helps create spaces where every child feels valued and accepted. 3️⃣ Community mobilisation: Mobilising partners into disability networks helps enhance referrals and build a supportive ecosystem, which is essential for holistic care and empowerment of children living with disabilities. 4️⃣ Advocacy and policy: Advocating for improved policies and legislation not only enhances service delivery but also paves the way for systemic change. It helps empower families and children in the long term. 5️⃣ Awareness and education: Training groups such as religious and community leaders helps raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding disability within families. This is a powerful step towards building inclusive communities. As childcare practitioners, it is crucial that we recognise the significance of creating inclusive environments for children living with disabilities within the family dynamics. CTWWC's collaborations further show the power of partnerships 🤝. Let us take inspiration from this as we continue in our journey towards creating safe, loving, and sustainable families for all children #InclusionMatters #CollaboratingforImpact #ChildcareKenya #FamilyFirst #ImpactfulChange #PamojaTunaWeza