

Disability Inclusion: From Stigma to Systems Change
Too often, disability is portrayed as a flaw or a burden. But the real barrier is stigma — exclusionary systems, discriminatory narratives, and a lack of fair opportunities. In the face of climate change, displacement, and inequality, persons with disabilities remain disproportionately affected and underrepresented in development agendas. Shifting this reality requires rethinking power, partnership, and progress — and centering disability rights as a core pillar of equity.
This session will explore how to dismantle stigma, advance disability-inclusive climate and development policies, and engage youth as catalysts for change. Together, we’ll ask: what would it take to create a world where disability inclusion is not an afterthought but a driver of systemic transformation?
Speakers
Maria Omare — Founder & Executive Director of The Action Foundation, advancing disability and gender inclusion in Africa for 15+ years.
Steve Williams — Founder of Kyaninga Child Development Centre, providing therapeutic care to over 8,000 children with disabilities in Uganda.
Vladimir Cuk — Strategic Partnership Advisor at Sightsavers and CBM, with 20+ years of leadership in international development, human rights advocacy, and resource mobilization.
What to Expect
Unpack the real barriers – Challenge the stigma and narratives that isolate persons with disabilities more than disability itself.
Examine climate impacts – Discuss how climate change disproportionately affects people with disabilities and what inclusive resilience looks like.
Rethink development systems – Explore how partnerships and policies can level the field for equity and opportunity.
Elevate youth engagement – Highlight the role of young leaders in advancing disability rights and inclusion.
Why Join?
Reframe disability inclusion as central to justice and development.
Gain insights into the intersection of disability, climate resilience, and equity.
Share experiences and strategies for dismantling stigma and exclusionary systems.
Walk away with ideas for embedding disability inclusion in your work and partnerships.
Who Should Attend?
Disability rights advocates and organizations.
Funders and policymakers shaping climate and development agendas.
Youth leaders driving inclusion and systemic change.
Anyone committed to advancing equity by dismantling stigma and creating fair opportunities.