Inclusive Futures Book Club Wrap-Up: A Conversation with Ken Brandt

Photo of Ken Brandt, a bald man with a white moustache, standing outdoors in front of green trees, wearing a black Nike zip-up hoodie. In the top right corner is the cover of his book Positive Vision: Enjoying the Adventures and Advantages of Poor Eyesight by Ken Brandt. Ken Brandt, author of 'Positive Vision'.

It was a delight to host Ken Brandt, author of Positive Vision: Enjoying the Adventure and Advantages of Poor Eyesight, at our recent Inclusive Futures Book Club event.

Ken opened with a powerful reflection on how medical advances at the time of his premature birth allowed him to retain some vision—an outcome shaped by the evolving understanding of oxygen therapy in newborns.

Ken’s story is one of courage, humour, and a zest for life. He shared how his mother’s unwavering support instilled in him an attitude to give anything a go, encouraging him to pursue adventure while being kind to himself when things didn’t go as planned. From learning to parachute to navigating life with low vision, Ken offered a refreshing perspective on how disability can shape, but not limit, one’s experiences.

Attendees were clearly engaged, asking thoughtful questions about community perceptions of disability. Ken responded with insight and warmth, furthering our collective understanding of how embracing diversity leads to a more inclusive world.

Ken’s book Positive Vision is available in hard copy, electronic, and audio formats at many online and physical bookstores. He is also available for public speaking engagements. For more information, visit www.kenbrandt.com.

A heartfelt thank you to Ken for sharing his story and helping us continue the conversation around disability, inclusion, and positive living.

View on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XWfJiHEZFTw?si=fYJWO5Ej9O45n-ca

Categories: Ken Brandt, Positive Vision, Maretta Mann, Inclusive Futures, Reimagining Disability, Inclusion, Disability, Inclusive Futures Book Club, Author Talk, Griffith University, Vision, Low Vision, Blindness, Blind, Clinically Blind, Medically Blind