Wales’ inspiring D/deaf and disabled women receive recognition
Today, at an event in the Senedd Cardiff Bay disabled women from across Wales will be recognised for creating change and breaking down barriers to achieve their goals, now and in history.
Joyce Watson AM will welcome an audience of over 100 people who will hear about the outstanding achievements of Welsh female D/deaf and disabled role models.
In August 2017 Disability Wales launched a call for nominations of D/deaf and disabled women and girls in Wales who are achieving great things in life and challenging stereotypes.
Rhian Davies, Chief Executive of Disability Wales says:
“Embolden is about shining a spotlight on the achievements of D/deaf and disabled women around Wales, and empowering other women and girls to fulfil their potential. We received over 40 nominations across seven categories; Career Success, Community Activist, Contribution to the Arts, Educational Achievements, Sports Excellence, Historical and Amazing in Any Other Way.
A panel of judges’ shortlisted eight women and girls who demonstrate outstanding success in their category. Our shortlisted candidates will be presented with an award during our event with the exception of the Historical award which will be presented to the family of the late Julie Marsh”
Anita Davies, one of the eight shortlisted candidates says:
“It means a lot to me to be nominated and shortlisted for the #IAmEmbolden awards, as the awards show what deaf and disabled women can do and are doing regardless of the challenges they face in life.
It is a way of inspiring other women. It creates awareness, especially to people who have misconceptions or little understanding of what benefits a disabled person can bring to their community”
Joyce Watson AM states:
“I am delighted to host this wonderful celebration of remarkable women. By honouring trail blazing D/deaf and disabled women, Embolden focuses on ability, not disability. I hope other women and girls will be inspired and encouraged and empowered by that message.”
Fawcett Society Chief Executive Sam Smethers states:
“In the centenary year of some women first getting to vote and stand for Parliament, it’s vital that we celebrate the diversity of all women. We are delighted to have supported the great work of the Embolden project to put forward a positive story about disabled women’s achievements.”
In the year running up to the centenary celebrations in March 2018 of women obtaining the vote, Disability Wales, with funding from Spirit of 2012 and the Fawcett Society, has been highlighting the achievements of Welsh D/deaf and disabled women and girls.
These stories and accompanying images will be used to create a campaign aimed at challenging myths and stereotypes about disability and showcase our amazing female role models.
