Category Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability   Show all

  • Disability Action Week: Sleep and Spinal Cord Injury: What You Need to Know

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    Social media tile for The Hopkins Centre - Disability Action Week 2025: 23-30 November | Communicate. Connect. Create. Research Spotlight: Sleeping better after Spinal Cord Injury – Dr Emily Bray. Vector illustration of a woman with long hair asleep in a bed with her head resting on the pillow. Footer: Our partners Spinal Life Australia and the Institute of Breathing and Sleep. Tagline: Bold ideas. Better solutions.

    Good sleep is vital for health and wellbeing—yet research shows that two in three people living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) experience poor sleep, and most haven’t sought support.

    As part of Disability Action Week, we’re highlighting important work led by Dr Emily Bray and her team at The Hopkins Centre, who have partnered with clinicians, researchers, and people with lived experience to explore this issue and bridge the information gap.

    Together, they’ve co-developed new, evidence-based resources to help people with SCI better understand sleep changes and find strategies that work for them.

    View the graphics below to learn more about this important research and how it supports the SCI community.

    We would like to thank our partners Spinal Life Australia, Institute for Breathing and Sleep and the Queensland Spinal Cord Injuries Service (QSCIS) for their support.

    Contact Dr Emily Bray for more information:
    https://www.hopkinscentre.edu.au/people-view/emily-bray-177

    Visit our website to find out more: https://www.hopkinscentre.edu.au/project/seed-project-sleep-disturbances-following-spinal-163


    Infographic titled “Why is sleep important?” It explains that sleep helps us think clearly, feel good, and stay healthy. Most adults need 7–9 hours of sleep, but this varies. After spinal cord injury (SCI), poor sleep is common — 2 out of 3 experience it. Poor sleep can affect focus and memory, health (heart disease and diabetes), mental wellbeing, and social and work life.

    Infographic titled “The 3 B’s of Sleep.” It explains that many factors can affect sleep and influence one another. The 3 B’s — My Body, My Brain, and My Bedroom — may help identify causes of poor sleep. The text encourages readers to explore more graphics or scan QR codes to complete the Sleep Diaries and 3 B’s of Sleep Worksheet. At the bottom, there’s an illustration of two people beside a large clipboard labelled “3 B’s activity” and two QR codes labelled “Sleep Diaries” and “3 B’s Worksheet.”

    Infographic titled “My Body.” It explains that our body and health play a big role in how well we sleep. Factors such as age, hormones, diet, and medical conditions can affect sleep quality. Common body-related challenges include sleep disorders (e.g., sleep apnoea, nasal congestion, obstructed airways), spasms, pain (nerve, musculoskeletal, visceral), bladder and bowel issues, hormonal changes (e.g., menopause), and positioning and pressure relief. The design features a smiling person illustration and icons beside each challenge.

    Infographic titled “My Bedroom.” It explains that a calm, safe bedroom helps your mind and body relax for better sleep. Things to check within your sleep environment include: Bright lights and loud noises, equipment comfort (e.g., bed, mattress, pillows, splints), room temperature (too hot or cold), Distractions (screens and devices), physical safety, overnight help and support, family routines (e.g., co-sleeping, shift work). The design features an illustration of a bed and icons beside each point.

    Infographic titled “My Brain.” It explains that your brain controls your body clock, body temperature, hormones, thoughts and emotions – all of which impact sleep. Brain-related sleep disruptors include - Worries and stress (e.g., thinking about the past, finances and parenting), mental health (e.g., depression or anxiety), disrupted body clock (circadian rhythm), and medication, alcohol or drug use. The design features an illustration of a brain and icons beside each point.

    An infographic titled: Finding a solution. Solving sleep problems after SCI isn’t always easy. You might have to try a few things before you find what works best for you, but stick with it. Some sleep problems might be fixed with simple changes, like going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, avoiding caffeine late in the day, limiting screen time, and reading a book before bed. Others might need more support. In this case: Track your sleep for 2 weeks to see if there are any patterns; map out the causes of your poor sleep using the 3 B’s exercise; seek advice from health professionals, your spinal outreach team or community organisation. The design features illustrations of a clock, document with a magnifying glass and a mobile device with speech bubbles.

    More information: Dr Emily Bray, Research Fellow, The Hopkins Centre. Email: Emily.bray@griffith.edu.au or visit our website http://www.hopkinscentre.edu.au – Scan the QR code or visit our project page at https://shorturl.at/zcF1i.The design features an illustration of a woman with long hair sleeping with her head on a pillow.


  • New Research on Supporting Neurodivergent University Students

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    Dr Kathy Gibbs from Griffith University smiles at the camera while standing in a bright hallway. She has short blonde hair and wears black-framed glasses, a black top, a gold necklace, and red earrings.Dr Kathy Gibbs, Griffith University

    Dr Kathy Gibbs, Senior Lecturer and researcher from Griffith University has published important new research sharing the voices of neurodivergent students studying at an Australian university. These students talked about what helps them learn well, what gets in the way, and what universities can do better.

    The study shows three big things matter most:
    • feeling understood and supported
    • clear, flexible and well-designed learning
    • real connections with tutors and peers.

    Many students said that one-size-fits-all support doesn’t work. They succeed when learning is designed in inclusive ways and when support is tailored to their needs and strengths.

    This research is a great reminder that simple changes — clearer instructions, flexible options, and building strong relationships — can make university more inclusive for everyone.

    📘 You can read the full paper here: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13384-025-00828-2

    More information:
    Dr Kathy Gibbs
    k.gibbs@griffith.edu.au

  • Help Make National Parks Accessible

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    Your voice can help shape more inclusive and accessible parks across Australia.

    Did you know that while 1 in 5 Australians live with disability, fewer than 1 in 10 visit national parks?

    Public green spaces should be for everyone - But accessibility barriers often make them out of reach.

    Dr Michael Norwood and his team are conducting vital research to understand these challenges and improve access to nature for all Australians.

    If you have a disability or support someone who does, your experience could help make Australia's national parks and green space more accessible for everyone.

    WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

    Take part in our National Park and Greenspace Accessibility Survey to share your experiences and ideas for change.

    Participation will involve completing an online survey which will explore if you visited a national park as someone with a disability, as a support person or significant other of someone with a disability.

    Scan the QR code on the flyer or click here to take part: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/national-parks-study

    Ethics approval number: Griffith University ref no: 2025/033

    MORE INFORMATION

    Dr Michael Norwood
    BEEHive Research Team
    hopkinscentre@griffith.edu.au


  • IDPwD Panel Discussion: Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress

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    Flyer advertising the online IDPwD Panel: Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress. Wednesday 3 December 2025, 12 pm to 1 pm (AEST) Online. Headshots of Lisa Cox, Dr Maria Golubovskaya, Brad Kinsela GAICD, A/Prof Popi Sotiriadou and Dr Kelsey Chapman together with a hero image of diverse people with laptops and documents. The Hopkins Centre and Griffith University Logos follow.

    Join us to mark the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Wednesday, 3 December 2025 (12:00–1:00pm AEST) in our online forum hosted by Griffith Business School’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Inclusive Futures Reimagining Disability, and The Hopkins Centre.

    This year’s theme Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress, offers an important opportunity to explore how we can create more inclusive communities as we head towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

    In Australia, one in five people experience disability and related barriers to meaningful employment. In this discussion, our panel will consider both the opportunities and challenges of fostering disability inclusion in Southeast Queensland—particularly in the areas of education, employment, volunteering, and business. We’ll also explore how mega-sporting events like Brisbane 2032 can be leveraged as tools for long-term social and economic progress, rather than producing only short-term, event-based opportunities.

    You will hear from:

    Lisa Cox OAM is an author, university researcher, TEDx speaker and internationally awarded thought leader. Her work is focused on epistemic disruption, leveraging the power and influence of industries like media and advertising to change social attitudes about disability while positively impacting social outcomes, like employment.

    Dr. Maria Golubovskaya, Lecturer, Griffith Business School – researching youth and disability employment, hospitality work, and service worker wellbeing.

    Brad Kinsela GAICD brings an extensive background as disability and social inclusion champion, qualified access consultant and board member/company director, Adjunct Industry Fellow at Griffith University, as well as an extensive career as a 'former' senior executive in the Government for over 26 years, including the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority. Coming from a background of disability and human rights advocacy, lobbying, and community-based human services and practice, it is not surprising that Brad has maintained his connections, profile, and commitment to living in a society that values, services and embraces all members of community

    Separate from his public policy life, his love for family and friends and embracing the outdoor wonders of the world has seen Brad take his passion to have accessibility and inclusion as the 'norm' rather than the exception has taken him to many places, most notably Barcelona and Paris in 2025 during the Paralympic Games.

    Associate Professor Popi Sotiriadou is a lecturer and researcher with the Griffith Business School and a distinguished international expert in managing high-performance sport and sports education. Her work focuses particularly on advancing women in sport, accessibility, and inclusive practices that ensure equitable participation and representation. Popi is the founder of Vision for Motion, an innovative app that promotes physical activity, wellbeing, and community connection for people with visual impairments.

    The discussion will be moderated by Dr Kelsey Chapman, Research Fellow with Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, whose work explores effective service delivery for people with disability, particularly in transport and health.

    Accessibility will be a priority, with live captions available throughout the session. This event will also be recorded and shared post-event, along with a full transcript for those who could not attend via YouTube and our website.

    👉 Register now to be part of this important conversation: https://shorturl.at/Nx5Qk

    More information

    Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability
    inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au

    Dr Millicent Kennelly – Griffith Business School
    m.kennelly@griffith.edu.au


    All copy in the caption above including the registration URL Link.


  • Inclusive Transport Futures: A National Invitation to Partner in Research and Innovation

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    Why Inclusive Transport Matters

    Transport is essential for independence, health and wellbeing, and social and economic participation. Yet, it remains one of the most reported forms of disability discrimination in Australia. Despite decades of reform, 35% of people with disability still face barriers to public transport.


    With the rise of digital technologies (including AI, smart glasses and autonomous vehicles); growing expectations for inclusive infrastructure (e.g. Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games), and the push for more sustainable urban planning in our cities and regions - now is the time to radically transform transport systems through inclusive innovation.


    We invite industry, government, and community organisations to join us in shaping a national research agenda that delivers real-world impact for inclusive transport.

    Our Collaborative Strength

    This initiative brings together leading researchers from three universities with deep expertise in inclusive design, transport equity, digital innovation, and lived experience research.

    Professor Elizabeth Kendall – Griffith University

    Director of Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability. A national leader in disability and rehabilitation research, citizen science and consumer-led research. Elizabeth established and was the founding Director of The Hopkins Centre, a partnership between Griffith University, Queensland Health and the National Injury Insurance Scheme, Queensland, leading translational research in disability inclusion and rehabilitation.

    Dr Lisa Stafford – Griffith University

    Australian Research Council Future Fellow and recognised leader in planning inclusive communities. Lisa leads research across disability participation, planning and transport equity including trips not made, whole-of-journey mapping, planning strategies and co-creation with lived experience.

    Professor Kim Marriott – Monash University

    Expert in digital assistive technologies, Kim’s research focuses on emerging technologies, such as AI and smart glasses for accessible information access and wayfinding.

    Professor Graham Currie – Monash University

    Internationally recognised leader in public transport planning and policy. Graham brings deep expertise in transport equity, infrastructure reform, and strategic planning.

    Professor Simon Darcy – University of Technology Sydney

    Global leader in inclusive tourism and transport. Simon’s work spans universal design, accessibility innovation, and lived experience research, with a focus on systems change.


    Potential Project Areas

    We are seeking partners to co-design and pilot research in areas such as:

    • Inclusive Journey Mapping: Understanding the full travel experience for people with disability, from planning to arrival.
    • Trips Not Made: Investigating the impact of inaccessible travel on tourism, wellbeing, and social and economic participation.
    • Navigation within transport hubs: Addressing signage, navigation in complex, stressful environments, and unexpected hazards.
    • Handling Disruptions: Creating accessible communication systems for real-time updates and alternative routing.
    • Accessible journey planning: Developing an AI-powered travel assistant for whole of journey support starting with pre-journey planning.
    • Passenger Assistance Mechanisms: Designing scalable support systems for regional and remote travel.
    • Consumer-Led Innovation: Engaging people with lived experience to identify priorities and test new service models.
    • Workforce Development: Training transport staff in inclusive service delivery and accessibility awareness.
    • Policy and Standards Engagement: Supporting implementation of disability standards and creating user-friendly guides.

    Funding Pathways

    We are actively preparing proposals under two major Australian Research Council grant schemes:

    ARC Linkage Project

    Proposed focus on supporting navigation and information access in transport hubs.[MM5] [LS6]

    • Deadline: 18 March 2026
    • Funding: $300,000–$400,000 over 2-3 years
    • Partner Contributions: Cash and/or in-kind
    • Optional: Co-fund PhDs via the National Industry PhD Program

    ARC Collaborate Centre

    A large-scale national consortium grant to drive long-term transformation in inclusive transport.

    • Expected Deadline: Late 2026
    • Funding: Up to $5 million over 5 years
    • Focus: Whole-of-journey accessibility, inclusive technologies, systems reform, and workforce development


    Contact Us

    To express interest or explore partnership opportunities, please contact the team at:
    inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au


    Professor Elizabeth Kendall

    Director, Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability

    e.kendall@griffith.edu.au


    Professor Kimbal Marriott

    Director, Monash Assistive Technology and Society (MATS) Centre

    k.marriott@monash.edu


    All text in caption above.

    All text in caption above.


  • Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability joins the World Health Organisation Disability Health Equity Network

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    Flyer advertising the livestreamed opening ceremony of the inaugural meeting of the WHO Disability Health Equity Network on 12 November 2025, 9:00-10:30am CET.

    We’re proud to announce that Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Griffith University, led by Professor Elizabeth Kendall OAM GAICD (Director) has officially become a member of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Disability Health Equity Network — a landmark global initiative driving action to achieve health equity for the 1.3 billion people worldwide with disability.

    Representing Inclusive Futures at the Network’s Inauguration this week (12–13 November) at WHO Headquarters, Geneva, are Dr Kelsey Chapman (Research Fellow, The Dignity Project) and Dr Kelly Clanchy (Program Director, Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology).

    This global collaboration recognises that people with disability continue to face significant and avoidable health inequities—including shorter life expectancy and higher risk of disease—due to systemic barriers in and beyond health systems.

    Investing in disability-inclusive health is not only a human rights obligation—it’s smart policy, with research showing a tenfold return on investment in inclusive health care.

    We’re honoured to contribute to this international movement working to ensure Health for All truly means all.


    Dr Kelly Clanchy (brunette) and Dr Kelsey Chapman (blonde) wearing business pants suits and attending the WHO Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.Dr Kelly Clanchy together with Dr Kelsey Chapman at the WHO Conference in Geneva.

    Dr Kelsey Chapman a young white woman with long blonde hair and wearing a navy pinstripe pants suit and lanyard stands in front of the WHO photowall at the conference.Dr Kelsey Chapman




  • Unlocking Inclusive Futures: A Roundtable on Disability, Higher Education and Career Pathways

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    Unlocking Inclusive Futures: A Roundtable on Disability, Higher Education and Career Pathways

    The Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) invites you to join an important online symposium exploring how we can create more inclusive pathways to higher education and professional careers for students with disability.

    This event brings together leaders from universities, government, and the disability sector to share research, lived experience, and practical strategies for building equitable, accessible learning and working environments.

    Featured Speakers:


    Event Highlights:

    • Expert panel discussions and workshops
    • Live captioning and Easy to Read materials
    • Opportunities to connect with educators, advocates, and policy makers


    📅 26th November 2025

    🕓 4:00 – 5:30pm AEST

    💻 Online Event – Free Registration


    Together, we can drive systemic change and strengthen pathways to inclusion across Australia’s tertiary sector.

    🔗 Register now: Click Here



  • Two New Ways to Support Wellbeing After Spinal Cord Injury

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    Dr Marita Heck, Adjunct Research Fellow at The Hopkins Centre, has two exciting new contributions aimed at enhancing the lives of people living with spinal cord injury (SCI)—from evidence-based research to practical guidance on intimacy and pleasure.

    1. New insights into sexual rehabilitation support after spinal cord injury

    In “Sexual rehabilitation support experiences of Australian adults living with a spinal cord injury” (Allen, Heck, Doig, Cudmore, Lawrence & Mason, 2025), the team explored the lived experiences of nine Australian adults (8 men; 1 woman) with spinal cord injury (SCI). Guided by Material–Discursive–Intrapsychic Theory, the study revealed how physical functioning, relational identity and broader disability-stigma discourses combine to shape sexual quality of life after SCI.

    Key findings:

    • Rehabilitation tends to focus strongly on physical function (e.g., erection, ejaculation) while giving less attention to emotional, relational and identity-aspects of sexuality.
    • Participants described loss of autonomy, feelings of shame or stigma, and challenges in partner communication / relational connection as major influences on sexual wellbeing.
    • When sexual rehabilitation support attends to emotional connection, personalised equipment and partner-/relationship-oriented goals, outcomes for sexual wellbeing improve.

    Why it matters:

    • Because sexuality is a fundamental component of wellbeing, addressing it in rehabilitation is critical — yet often under-addressed for people with SCI.
    • By broadening support beyond just “physical functioning” to include relational, psychological and identity dimensions, clinicians and services can help people living with SCI experience fuller, more meaningful sexual lives.

    Practical tip:
    If you work in rehabilitation (or support someone who does), embed a simple “relationship check-in” into the routine: ask “How has your /intimacy /connection changed since the injury?” and then include a follow-up question “What aspect of this would you like to change/restore?” Use that to guide discussion of equipment, partner communication, self-identity and expectations — not just physical sexual function.

    📄 Citation:
    Allen, A., Heck, M., Doig, C., Cudmore, T., Lawrence, K., & Mason, J. (2025). Sexual rehabilitation support experiences of Australian adults living with a spinal cord injury. The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 1–10.
    https://doi.org/10.1080/10790268.2025.2496567

    Photo of an open hard cover book, with middle pages forming the shape of a heart, with the quote “What if your body’s worth wasn’t defined by what it can or can’t do?” Dr Marita Heck.

    2. Exploring Intimacy and Pleasure

    Off the back of research findings and clinical work, Dr Heck has also released The Sensuality of Connection: An Erotic Playbook to Intimacy After Spinal Cord Injury, to bridge the gap. Whilst the guide is designed for people living with SCI—it is truly suitable for everyone! This resource encourages exploring connection, intimacy, and pleasure in new, playful ways.

    Whether you’re a researcher, clinician, or someone interested in living well after SCI, Dr Heck’s latest work offers insights and practical tools to support recovery, wellbeing, and connection.

    Get in touch / learn more:

    Dr Marita Heck
    The Hopkins Centre
    marita.heck@griffith.edu.au



  • Five new Inclusive Futures Leadership Scholars

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    Professor Catherine Marshall never set out to create a global movement, she simply wanted to give all women a fair chance. A renowned advocate for women with disability, particularly those who face the added challenges of poverty, she was driven by a belief that education and leadership opportunities should belong to everyone, not just the privileged few. More than two decades ago, Catherine founded the Women’s International Leadership Institute (WILI) in Arizona to bring opportunities to all women and has been a consistent partner of Inclusive Futures since 2003.

    From its humble beginnings, WILI has grown into a transformative force, empowering low-income women to move closer to leadership roles, influence their communities, and challenge systemic barriers. Catherine’s vision was clear: leadership should reflect the diverse voices of the people it serves.

    As Catherine prepares to retire from her tireless community work, it is important to reflect on the profound impact WILI has had on women around the world. Over the years, WILI has supported young women through mentorship programs, skills development workshops, and funding to access to education — often providing a lifeline where opportunities were otherwise out of reach. Many of these women have gone on to become powerful advocates, community leaders, and changemakers, reshaping policies and opening doors for others.

    Now, in this final chapter, WILI has announced the creation of international scholarships for low-income women with disability to complete leadership training. The scholarships reflect Catherine’s unwavering commitment to dismantling barriers. 'True leadership is built on diverse perspectives,' she said. 'We’re not just empowering women—we’re changing the landscape of leadership itself.' Until we see young women from low-income backgrounds and those with disability in leadership roles, exclusion in our broader society will continue. Education and leadership are the ingredients for change.

    Established in partnership with Griffith University’s Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, these WILI-funded scholarships will provide a gateway to online training and mentorship—where the women will learn skills that will position them for leadership roles in future. The program will develop their practical skills and build confidence to return to their communities as powerful agents of change.

    Logo for WILI Empowering Women Globally with a hand illustrated vector logo of a line art woman with her arms outstretched on top of a world globe surrounded by stars.

    Meet our new Inclusive Futures Scholars

    These five outstanding women with disability will amplify their impact in future thanks to the WILI Inclusive Futures scholarships – Nerine Williams, Nina Carr, Lizzie Ambrose, Laura Sheenan, and Carmel Larkin—each bringing deep lived experience, expertise, and fierce determination to create more inclusive and just systems.

    A group photo collage featuring six individuals arranged in two rows of three. Top row, from left to right: Nerine Williams, Nina Carr, and Lizzie Ambrose. Bottom row, from left to right: Laura Sheenan and Carmel Larkin. Each person is identified by name below their photo. At the bottom of the image is the WILI logo with a tagline Empowering Women Globally with a hand rendered icon of a woman with arms outstretched on top of the world surrounded by stars; next to it the Griffith University logo with the text: “Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability.”

    Nerine Williams is a proud FND (Functional Neurological Disorder) advocate, AT Mentor, and accessibility leader who has dedicated her life to improving the lives of others with complex disability. She is already a strong voice in the disability community, bringing a rare combination of lived expertise and sector insight. She plays key roles with organisations such as QDN, AT Chat, and FND Living. Nerine believes this award will enable her to continue challenging barriers and ensuring that people with disability are not only heard but lead the solutions that affect them.

    Nina Carr, a woman with an acquired brain injury, is an independent advocate known for her passionate, uncompromising stance on representation and systemic change. Without organisational backing or a steady income, Nina has carved out a space as a fierce voice for disability justice in Queensland. This award provides critical access to training and networks she otherwise could not access and will help her realise her bold goals. According to Nina, she will not just to have a seat at the table but will redesign the table itself by placing lived experience at the centre of policy, services, and leadership”.

    Lizzie Ambrose is proud of having turned personal adversity into purposeful action. Living with epilepsy and a traumatic brain injury, Lizzie has become a leader in inclusive health promotion, co-facilitating a yoga program for people with brain injury, contributing to qualitative research, and sharing her story on national and international stages. Lizzie’s commitment to de-stigmatising neurological conditions and building community is reshaping how society understands epilepsy and disability. She is now using research as a vehicle to bring about change, particularly in how health services are delivered.

    Laura Sheenan is a high-level advocate with deep expertise in trauma-informed practice and systems change, particularly in the areas of child protection and mental health. A mother with lived experience of profound grief and resilience, Laura uses her voice to advocate for improved mental health services and systemic support for marginalised families. Her focus on intersectionality ensures that the needs of diverse communities such as First Nations, CALD, LGBTQI+ people with disability are not forgotten.

    Carmel Larkin acquired her disability following a medical event in 2021 and has since found herself becoming an unexpected but valued voice in health governance. From returning to work with significant adjustments to contributing to her Health Service’s Disability Plan, Carmel has discovered the power of lived experience in influencing systemic reform. This award will allow her to develop the skills and confidence to step more fully into a leadership role, sharing insights that go beyond her personal story to shape stronger, more inclusive health systems.

    These remarkable women exemplify the future of leadership in the disability sector, which should be intersectional, informed, and led by lived experience. With this award, they will be able to amplify their advocacy, challenge injustice, and lead meaningful change in Queensland communities.

    As part of their award, the recipients will receive premium membership of the Disability Leadership Institute in Australia. The Disability Leadership Institute (DLI) is dedicated to cultivating and advancing leadership by and for people with disabilities. Founded by outstanding disabled leaders, such as Christina Ryan, the DLI provides a unique platform that offers professional development, peer support, coaching, and networking opportunities tailored specifically for disabled people aspiring to or already in leadership roles. This will be an important opportunity for the WILI Inclusive Futures award winners to develop their skills and meet other leaders.

    Christina Ryan, CEO and Founder of Disability Leadership Institute

    After her retirement, Catherine’s lifelong dedication to inspire women leaders will continue through the work of these five women. WILI may be closing its doors, but it has created a ripple effect that will enable generations of future women to lead, thrive, and transform their worlds.

    Christina Ryan, a middle-aged woman with a short, greying cropped haircut, is smiling warmly. She is wearing a vibrant purple suede collared jacket over a black top and geometric purple earrings. She is seated indoors in a professional setting, with office chairs and a laptop in the background. At the bottom of the image is the Griffith University logo with the text: “Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability.” Christina is the CEO and Founder of the Disability Leadership Institute.

  • Congratulations to Pallav Pant on his PhD Confirmation Seminar!

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    On Friday 30 May 2025, Pallav Pant successfully presented his PhD Confirmation Seminar at Griffith University's Gold Coast Campus.

    His research, titled “Advancing Accessible Emergency Communication: Co-Designing Digital Solutions for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) Communities in Queensland,” is a vital step toward inclusive and equitable emergency communication systems.

    Pallav’s interdisciplinary project brings together public health, digital technology, and inclusive design, with a strong co-design approach that centres the lived experiences of Deaf and hard of hearing community members.

    His work is supervised by a dynamic team: Dr Febi Dwirahmadi, Prof Elizabeth Kendall AM GAICD, Prof Dian Tjondronegoro, and Dr Monique Lewis, and chaired by Professor Faruk Ahmed.

    A montage of four images from Pallav Pant's PhD Confirmation Seminar at Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus. From top L-R: Pallav Pant speaks standing at the lectern, Dr Feb Dwirahmadi, Pallav Pant and Dr Monique Lewis, Attendees listen to the presentation with a closed captioner at the front transcribing the dialogue, Pallav sits at the lectern and attendees face the front listening attentively.

    🔍 About Pallav:
    Pallav is a passionate public health communicator with a rich background in global health, risk communication, and health emergency preparedness. Before beginning his PhD journey at the School of Medicine and Dentistry at Griffith University, Queensland, Pallav worked across Asia and the Pacific and was engaged with Disability Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DIDRR) advocacy. He’s committed to using inclusive, evidence-based solutions to strengthen communication in crisis settings.

    This inclusive seminar was accessible with Auslan interpreting and live captions — reflecting the values behind Pallav’s research.

    The team at Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability are proud to support researchers like Pallav, who are reimagining communication to ensure no one is left behind. We wish him all the very best on his PhD journey!

    To find out more about Pallav’s research, please contact him via email on: pallav.pant@griffithuni.edu.au