Category Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability Show all
-
Thrilling News: Griffith Inclusive Futures Shines at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon!
Share Thrilling News: Griffith Inclusive Futures Shines at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon! on Facebook Share Thrilling News: Griffith Inclusive Futures Shines at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon! on Twitter Share Thrilling News: Griffith Inclusive Futures Shines at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon! on Linkedin Email Thrilling News: Griffith Inclusive Futures Shines at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon! link
Thrilling News: Griffith Inclusive Futures Shines at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon!
A massive congratulations to the incredible team from Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability and Griffith University! Our staff, students, and ambassadors showcased their exceptional spirit and athleticism at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon this weekend.
Celebrating success! IFRD team members Rebekah Barker and Maretta Mann proudly display their 10km Finishers' Medals.
Race day smiles from Bek, Adam Sheppard, and Maretta.STANDOUT PERFORMANCES
Geoff Trappett OAM Australian Paralympic legend and Inclusive Futures partner Geoff Trappett dominated the Men’s Open 10km event, clinching first place in his category with a phenomenal time of 30:28. Watching Geoff race is always a thrill!
Kudos to Adam Sheppard (10km, M40-44), Natasha Price (CPL Wheelchair 10km), and the winners: Jake Lappin (CPL Wheelchair Marathon), Emily Tapp (CPL Wheelchair 10km), and Joshua Brass (Wheelchair 4km).
A big shoutout to Garth Plank, CEO of Mentor4me, for his incredible behind-the-scenes efforts in launching the first-ever 4km Wheelchair Race this year! Garth's inspiration and coaching were pivotal for Emily Foster, who discovered her passion for wheelchair racing at a City of Gold Coast ‘come ‘n’ try’ event. Thank you, Garth, for all you do for the wheelchair racing community! Read more here: https://goldcoastmarathon.com.au/2024/07/07/race-report-wheelchair-4km-race-joins-the-gold-coast-marathon-presented-by-asics-suite-of-events/
Dr. Maretta Mann Our dynamic Inclusive Futures Strategic Development Manager, Maretta, blazed through the Southern Cross University 10km Run (F45-49) with a personal best of 51 minutes, securing 19th place in her category. Maretta also joined her family in the Gold Coast Airport 5km Run. Way to go, Maretta!
Rebekah Barker Inclusive Futures Project Support Officer - a newcomer to running, Rebekah tackled her first competitive 10km (F35-39) event, finishing strong with a personal best of 52:32 minutes, and 41st in her category. Fantastic effort, Bek!
Geoff Trappett OAM, Australian paralympic champion, powers past in his race chair.
Dr Maretta Mann together with Geoff post-race.THE POWER OF INCLUSIVE SPORTS
“Play: Active and Engaged Citizens” is one of the core themes of Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability. This theme focuses on inclusive sport, recreation and access to safe and healthy environments throughout the lifespan. It will respond to the growing disparity in health outcomes for people with disability and aims to increase participation and performance in competitive sport in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games.
Inclusive sports play a crucial role in promoting equality, breaking down barriers, and fostering a sense of community. By providing opportunities for people of all abilities to compete and excel, we not only challenge stereotypes but also inspire others to embrace diversity and inclusivity. Events like the GC Marathon – which has expanded to include three wheelchair events – highlight the importance of making sport accessible to everyone, and showcase the talents and determination of athletes of all abilities.Celebrate with Us!
Hats off to all athletes, including those with disability and chronic conditions, for their outstanding achievements. If you participated, let us know so we can celebrate your success together!
Amazing job, everyone!
VISIT OUR WEBSITE: https://www.griffith.edu.au/research/inclusive-futures-reimagining-disability -
Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) Disability Research Strategy and Co-Design Workshop Series
Share Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) Disability Research Strategy and Co-Design Workshop Series on Facebook Share Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) Disability Research Strategy and Co-Design Workshop Series on Twitter Share Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) Disability Research Strategy and Co-Design Workshop Series on Linkedin Email Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) Disability Research Strategy and Co-Design Workshop Series link
Left to right: Attendees of the Brisbane Workshop and Dr. Talitha Kingsmill.
The Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) recently hosted the Disability Research Strategy Engagement and Co-Design Workshop Series, bringing together individuals with disability, citizen scientists, researchers, government agencies, and key disability advocacy organisations across Queensland. These invitation-only, fully accessible workshops aimed to collaboratively shape the research agenda for the Department of Child Safety, Seniors and Disability Services’ Disability Research Strategy 2025-2030.Facilitated by Dr. Talitha Kingsmill (GU), Professor Kate Ames (CQU), Dr. Corey Bloomfield (CQU), and Professor Charlotte Brownlow (USQ), the workshops were held both in-person at Brisbane and Toowoomba, and online. The focus was on identifying research priorities and projects to support Queensland’s Disability Plan, the Disability Royal Commission, NDIS Review recommendations, Elevate 2042 Legacy Strategy, and the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Key stakeholders gathered at Griffith University’s Southbank campus, University of Southern Queensland’s Toowoomba campus and online to discuss a wide range of topics, including employment and financial security, safety rights and justice, education and learning, community attitudes, and departmental regulatory functions. The discussions generated valuable insights and recommendations, which will inform policy and decision-making for the upcoming Disability Research Strategy.
The engagement and co-design workshops are an ongoing effort, with multiple sessions held across Queensland and online. These workshops are crucial for ensuring that diverse voices contribute to shaping the research priorities that will guide future policies. The QDRN invites interested parties to connect and participate in this important work.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Queensland Government Department of Child Safety, Seniors and Disability Services for their unwavering support of this research. We also wish to thank Griffith University's Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability team members, Rebekah Barker, Joe-Anne Kek-Pamenter, Dr Kelsey Chapman, Dr Maretta Mann and Professor Elizabeth Kendall AM, for their invaluable assistance in organising these events, and the wider QDRN team for their continuous dedication and support.
For more information or to become involved, please contact:
Dr. Talitha Kingsmill, Research Fellow and QDRN LeadInclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Griffith University
Email: qdrn@griffith.edu.au
Dr Talitha Kingsmill addresses the Brisbane workshop. -
ICA Preconference: Dignified Representation of Disability and Diversity in the Media
Share ICA Preconference: Dignified Representation of Disability and Diversity in the Media on Facebook Share ICA Preconference: Dignified Representation of Disability and Diversity in the Media on Twitter Share ICA Preconference: Dignified Representation of Disability and Diversity in the Media on Linkedin Email ICA Preconference: Dignified Representation of Disability and Diversity in the Media link
EVENT RECAP:
Dignified Representation of Disability and Diversity in the MediaPresented by: Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Griffith University
Last week’s ICA preconference, "The Inaugural Disability Communications and Media Preconference 2024: Emerging or Emerged?", brought together scholars from 17 countries to delve into media discourse, participatory research, and disability representation.
On Friday, we were inspired by a roundtable led by Dr. Monique Lewis from Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability at Griffith University. Monique's skillful moderation highlighted critical issues, fostering meaningful change in inclusive media representation.
In this roundtable discussion, we contemplated the overarching landscape of disability representations in news and popular media forms, and how these portrayals work to construct notions of ‘disability’ and the ‘disabled person’. Invisibility and erasure of disability have been ongoing concerns for everyone involved in advocacy work, activism, community engagement and academic scholarship, with dignity as a paramount focus. We heard from panel members about their lived experiences of both invisibility and visibility in the media context, as well as insights into their own perspectives, advocacy, and contributions to disrupting, creating, and producing media content about disability.The session also unpacked some of the broader social, cultural, political, and economic implications of ableism and disablism in the media, as well as the wealth of creative opportunities for social transformation, with inclusivity at its heart.
Dr Faith Valencia-Forrester, Lisa Cox, Sara Shams, Tina (Captioner) and Dr Monique Lewis.PANELISTS
Dr. Monique Lewis: A senior lecturer in media and communication and a member of Inclusive Futures at Griffith University. Her research spans media, health and medicine, and risk sociologies, with a particular interest in news media landscapes, framing, and practice. She is the lead editor of Communicating COVID-19: Interdisciplinary Perspectives (2021) and Communicating COVID-19: Media, Trust and Public Engagement (2024) published by Palgrave.
Sara Shams: A pharmacist, model, speaker, creator, actor and formidable disability advocate. As a bilateral above knee amputee, her mission is to raise awareness on what it takes to be truly and authentically inclusive within the fashion and media industry, and beyond.
Lisa Cox: A TEDx speaker and internationally acclaimed disability advocate, and co-author of Media Diversity Australia’s ‘Disability Reporting Handbook’. Combining her professional background in advertising and media, with a lived experience of disability, Lisa is committed to changing public perceptions of disability by empowering professionals in some of the world’s most influential industries, like media. Her solutions-focused approach is helping professionals better navigate the nuances of disability inclusion through their content and workplace practices.
Dr. Faith Valencia Forrester: An expert in work-integrated learning and social change initiatives like Project Open Doors. Faith has combined her media experience, degrees in Arts, Law and Business, and completed her PhD in inclusive work-integrated learning with a view to developing an inclusive and diverse media cohort capable of changing the media landscape for the better.
Dr Maretta Mann (Strategic Development Manager, Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability) together with Lisa Cox, Dr Faith Valencia-Forrester and Sara Shams; Panel Dr Faith Valencia-Forrester and Sara Shams; Moderator Dr Monique Lewis.WHY MEDIA REPRESENTATION MATTERS
Media representation of people with disability fosters more inclusive societies. As Mark Deuze noted in 2011, we live in media, not just with it. Our panellists discussed how media often portrays disability, along with its influence on societal perceptions, and the power relations involved.
PERSONAL STORIES AND PROFESSIONAL INSIGHTS
Sara Shams shared a poignant story illustrating misconceptions about disability. A public bathroom encounter highlighted how deeply ingrained biases and microaggressions are, stressing the need to normalise disability and break down societal and self-imposed barriers.
Lisa Cox and Monique Lewis discussed the impact of media representations on education and employment. Lisa’s experiences after acquiring her disabilities highlighted the social attitudes that hinder employment opportunities, despite unchanged qualifications and experience.
Dr. Faith Valencia Forrester's contribution was a profound exploration of the intersection between work-integrated learning (WIL), social change initiatives like Project Open Doors, and media representation of disability. She emphasised the transformative impact of WIL in enhancing employment opportunities for individuals with disability, bridging the gap between education and workplace readiness. Dr. Forrester highlighted Project Open Doors as a pioneering effort to foster inclusive work environments through collaborative partnerships with businesses. Her discussion underscored the crucial role of media in shaping perceptions of disability, advocating for dignified and respectful portrayals to promote societal inclusion. Dr. Forrester championed the importance of inclusive practices across sectors to drive meaningful social change and create more equitable opportunities for people with disability.
Dr Faith Valencia-Forrester; Professor Kuansong Victor Zhuang and Professor Katie Ellis; Attendees at the event listen to the panel discussion.MEDIA DIVERSITY AUSTRALIA DISABILITY REPORTING HANDBOOK
The discussion on the Disability Reporting Handbook, led by co-authors Lisa Cox and Faith Valencia Forrester, highlighted its pivotal role in guiding journalists towards more accurate and respectful reporting on disability issues. Developed in collaboration with Griffith University's Inclusive Futures, the handbook stands as a comprehensive resource shaped by input from individuals with lived experiences of disability and disability advocates. Lisa emphasised the handbook's practical utility in newsrooms, providing clear guidelines to counter prevailing biases and misconceptions in media representations of disability. Faith underscored the importance of inclusive language and perspectives in journalistic practices, urging newsrooms to adopt these principles to foster a more inclusive media landscape. The handbook's development process and its potential impact in reshaping media narratives were central to their discussion, reflecting a collective effort to promote greater understanding and sensitivity towards disability in journalism.
The addition of a marketing and advertising section within the Disability Reporting Handbook represents a pivotal enhancement aimed at extending its influence beyond traditional journalism. Led by Lisa Cox and designed by Jo Kek-Pamenter, this chapter addresses a crucial void by embedding disability perspectives into media and communication strategies. It equips journalists, advertising professionals, government entities, businesses, and individuals alike with the tools needed to communicate inclusively. By furnishing practical guidance on language use and sensitivity, this section empowers stakeholders to authentically engage with the diverse experiences within the disability community, thereby catalysing significant social change and nurturing a more inclusive media environment.
Download a copy: https://www.mediadiversityaustralia.org/disability-reporting-handbook/THE FUTURE
Katie Ellis warned against the pitfalls of "inspiration porn," advocating for normalised, diverse representation of the disability community. The panel called for increased visibility and representation to drive social change and create inclusive media landscapes.
The roundtable’s rich discussion, led by the the passionate moderation by Monique, showcased the transformative power of inclusive dialogue and the necessity of dignified media representation.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Inclusive Futures team would like to thank our hosts, the International Communications Association (ICA), Professor Kuansong Victor Zhuang, Professor Katie Ellis and Professor Gerard Goggin organisers for inviting us to participate in this impactful event.
#InclusiveFutures #DisabilityRepresentation #MediaMatters #ICAPreconference2024 #InclusiveDialogue #DisabilityInMedia
Lisa Cox together with Sara Shams; Pallav Pant; Professor Kuansong Victor Zhuang and Professor Katie Ellis; Professor Gerard Goggin. -
Honoring Excellence: Prof. Elizabeth Kendall Appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2024 King's Birthday Honours
Share Honoring Excellence: Prof. Elizabeth Kendall Appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2024 King's Birthday Honours on Facebook Share Honoring Excellence: Prof. Elizabeth Kendall Appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2024 King's Birthday Honours on Twitter Share Honoring Excellence: Prof. Elizabeth Kendall Appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2024 King's Birthday Honours on Linkedin Email Honoring Excellence: Prof. Elizabeth Kendall Appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2024 King's Birthday Honours link
Congratulations to our Director, Professor Elizabeth Kendall, on being appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the King’s Birthday 2024 Honours List.
Professor Kendall has dedicated her life, professionally and personally, to improving the lives of people with disability, for more than 40 years. She is a pioneer of disability and rehabilitation research, making extensive seminal contributions in peer reviewed journals, books, and industry reports.
As the Foundation Director of The Hopkins Centre (a collaborative between Griffith University, Metro South Healthand the Motor Accident Insurance Commission), Elizabeth was instrumental in embedding consumer engagement and practitioner capacity, resulting in impactful research designed and conducted in collaboration with end users. Under Professor Kendall’s leadership, research has been translated into sustainable components of the service system for people with disability.
Under Professor Kendall’s leadership of Griffith University’s Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Professor Kendall is leading innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to creating inclusive places for people with disability to live, work and play. The Inclusive Futures Hub, an online, accessible consumer engagement platform, has grown to over 700 members, who have contributed to state and national policy reforms for people with disability.
Elizabeth is a tireless advocate and champion for people with disability. She has also mentored many research students and staff to lead successful careers of their own.
We are so proud of Elizabeth and delighted to see her receive this deserving recognition.
Read more in the Griffith News: https://news.griffith.edu.au/2024/06/10/leading-disability-advocate-honoured-in-kings-birthday-list/
Visit the Inclusive Futures Website: https://www.griffith.edu.au/research/inclusive-futures-reimagining-disability
Register to become a member: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/
-
Meaningful Employment for People with Disability in Queensland
Share Meaningful Employment for People with Disability in Queensland on Facebook Share Meaningful Employment for People with Disability in Queensland on Twitter Share Meaningful Employment for People with Disability in Queensland on Linkedin Email Meaningful Employment for People with Disability in Queensland link
Meaningful Employment for People with Disability in Queensland (Final Report)
Project Aims
The Department of Seniors, Disability Services and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships (DSDSATSIP) requested a high-level proposal to examine employment experiences of people with disability in Queensland.
The project aimed to identify insights unique to Queensland and provide evidence that could improve experiences of people with disability (both with and without NDIS funding) in relation to employment. Specifically, the project:
- Investigated employment experiences of people with disability in Queensland (formal, unpaid and supported);
- Explored the nature of financial security for Queenslanders with disability;
- Examined the drivers for satisfaction or dissatisfaction for those who have, or have previously had, employment and the challenges to success in employment; and
- Explored employment and work aspirations, including preferred career pathways, hours of work and locations.
This project was conducted in three phases:
- Phase 1: Literature review and statistical analysis;
- Phase 2: Project Co-development;
- Phase 3: Data collection and analysis by Citizen Scientists.
Visit the Project page on the Inclusive Futures Hub.
The Final Report contains the findings from the qualitative and quantitative data collection with citizen scientists, including strategies on how to improve meaningful employment for people with disability.
Summary of the findings
Meaningful employment for people with disability necessitates workplaces that foster growth, autonomy, flexibility, support, safety, and dignity. However, current practices often fall short of meeting these essential criteria, as highlighted in our study on disability employment in Queensland. Barriers to employment persist throughout individuals' lives, particularly for those with developmental disability or acquired disability later in life. These barriers encompass various stages of the employment process and require tailored interventions, including improved training and support during education, enhanced transition programs, and better accessibility in recruitment and workplace accommodations. Moreover, there's a pressing need to address misconceptions and stigma surrounding disability, foster inclusive workplaces, and provide education and resources for both employers and employees.Efforts to improve disability employment outcomes must prioritise meaningful work and acknowledge the diverse needs and abilities of individuals with disability. This involves empowering individuals through self-employment opportunities, promoting inclusive practices in the workforce, and advocating for policy changes to address financial disincentives and support mechanisms. Collaboration among stakeholders, including citizen scientists and diverse disability groups, is essential for developing comprehensive strategies that address systemic challenges and harness the strengths and contributions of people with disability in the workforce. Ultimately, a concerted effort to reshape attitudes, practices, and policies is vital to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for disability employment in Queensland and beyond.
The Final Report can be found on this link: https://doi.org/10.25904/1912/5090
Authors
Mowbray, Paula K
Kendall, Elizabeth
Chapman, Kelsey
Khan, Maria
Allen, Connie
Berridge, MarkPublished by
Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Griffith UniversityPlease contact Dr. Paula Mowbray for further information:
Phone: (07) 3735 4708
Email: p.mowbray@griffith.edu.auGriffith University Ethics Approval: 2022/894
-
Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series Mary Li and Sophie – Navigating Hearing Loss
Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series Mary Li and Sophie – Navigating Hearing Loss on Facebook Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series Mary Li and Sophie – Navigating Hearing Loss on Twitter Share Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series Mary Li and Sophie – Navigating Hearing Loss on Linkedin Email Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series Mary Li and Sophie – Navigating Hearing Loss link
Mary Li together with Inclusive Futures Book Club and Author Talk host Dr. Maretta MannOn Wednesday, April 3, 2024, the Inclusive Futures Book Club hosted author Mary Li for an insightful conversation with Dr. Maretta Mann. The discussion delved into Mary’s remarkable dancing career, her marriage to Li Cunxin AO, and the challenges faced by her daughter, Sophie, who was diagnosed as profoundly deaf at 17 months. They explored career decisions, the absence of role models, and the complexities of education and social interactions. Mary and Sophie’s journey, navigating both the hearing and deaf worlds, provided a powerful narrative of resilience and adaptation.
An Unlikely Beginning
Author Mary Li and Inclusive Futures Author Talk host Dr. Maretta Mann Mary Li’s memoir traces her journey from Rockhampton, Australia, where she grew up as Mary McKendry—one of eight children. Despite an unconventional start, Mary’s innate musicality drew her to ballet. She recalls, “The minute I walked into the studio at eight years old, and I could hear the music, I was lifted to another world.” Her teacher recognised her potential, leading to an invitation to the Royal Ballet School in London at age 16.
Mary Li and her dance partner and husband Li Cunxin OAM dance Swan Lake Mary’s Dancing Career
Mary joined the London Festival Ballet (now the English National Ballet) in 1977. As she ascended the ranks, she danced principal roles in classical ballets, collaborated with renowned choreographers, and performed on international stages. One of many highlights was visiting China in the early 1980s—a ground-breaking experience.
A Shocking Diagnosis
In 1989, Mary Li and her husband, Li Cunxin AO, welcomed their daughter, Sophie. Newborn hearing screening wasn’t routine then, but after noticing Sophie’s lack of reaction to a popping balloon, they booked a hearing test. The diagnosis—profound deafness—shocked them both. Mary immediately thought of Helen Keller’s experience. Despite advancements, the shock remains significant for parents. Mary made an early decision: she would give up her dancing career to ensure Sophie had equal opportunities.
Finding a Way for Sophie
Mary described that at the time (1990s) there was no internet, and no role models in her life that would help parents to support their deaf children. Sign language was not really presented as a viable option. She fortunately met one wonderful speech therapist who also had a child with disability. “She was the one that looked at me in the room and said “you know, you can help her”… she was amazing.” But healthcare and support weren’t coordinated, and parents had to find their own way.
Challenging Social Situations
In social situations, Mary faced challenges related to her daughter Sophie’s hearing loss. At a Mother’s Group, comparing Sophie’s speech development with other children highlighted the differences. Sophie missed social conversations without Mary as her interpreter. Birthday celebrations were exhausting, but a thoughtful friend organised a small party for Sophie. As Sophie entered her teenage years, group situations became even more difficult—never being privy to secrets and missing out on conversations affected her confidence profoundly.
Mother as Teacher
Mary took every opportunity to teach Sophie to speak. “Even in the bath tub I put on her hearing aids because she was still… Instead of making individual lessons I just talked all day about everything that was around me.” She spoke about a revelation when Sophie was about four years old that she would need to teach Sophie how to think, because this is very difficult to do without the language. This is when she decided to investigate a cochlear implant.
Navigating School and University
Mary shared the difficulty in finding a good school for Sophie. She tried out a specialist school for deaf children, and mainstream schools (in both Australia and the USA). She wanted Sophie to have a good education but also for Sophie to experience social situations. None of the school experiences were perfect. Later Sophie went to university, and that presented challenges as well. Even if there were Auslan (Australian Sign Language) interpreters, sometimes they wouldn’t be available for particular classes.
Sophie and Dancing
Mary spoke about the benefits that Sophie has had from doing dancing. First, it was a new opportunity, and this extended Sophie’s opportunity to learn new words from being immersed in different situations. She said that when you have a hearing-impaired child you worry about background noise, so basketball is out. But in a ballet studio the children have to be quiet and listen to the teacher. So, in a way Sophie was having speech therapy without knowing it. Interestingly, she was also very expressive and musical. She ended up doing a year 12 dance, and she was one of the top 5% in the state. She was particularly good at tap dancing, and Mary said this is a great form of dance for Deaf children.
Cochlear Implants: A Dual Perspective
Mary acknowledges that cochlear implants have significantly transformed Sophie’s life, but they come with limitations. Sophie now communicates using Auslan and benefits from the implants, straddling both the hearing and deaf worlds. However, Sophie’s first implant failed due to a software glitch, leading to a second surgery after 26 years.
Sophie’s reality remains unchanged—she goes to bed deaf and wakes up the same way. Yet, the implant acts as a powerful tool, akin to putting on glasses.
Nowadays, in her mentoring role, Sophie emphasises confidence-building. Many individuals with implants or hearing loss struggle with confidence, but Sophie guides them toward reclaiming it. Whether in the workforce or daily life, she empowers others to overcome barriers and find their voice.
Where is Sophie Now?
Mary told us a bit about what Sophie has been doing since her book was published in 2020. Amongst many exciting developments, Sophie has invented a subscription-based global online signing dictionary called Sign How, as well as a signing app.
Resources:
· To read the full story, purchase Mary’s Last Dance by Mary Li online.
· Learn about Sophie’s Sign How dictionary.
This condensed account was written by Dr Maretta Mann, Strategic Development Manager, and host of the Book Club at Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability.
Dr Maretta Mann and Mary Li -
Brain Awareness Week
Share Brain Awareness Week on Facebook Share Brain Awareness Week on Twitter Share Brain Awareness Week on Linkedin Email Brain Awareness Week link
Brain Awareness Week (11-15 March), initiated by the Brain Foundation, is a time when we encourage you to think more about your brain health and help raise awareness for brain diseases, disorders and injuries, including brain tumours.
Every day in Australia, six people are diagnosed with a brain tumour and four will die. Brain tumour is a complex illness with the combined effects of cancer and brain injury. People with brain tumour and their families experience considerable distress related to the diagnosis, threat to life and changes in the person’s abilities and lifestyle.
Research led by Professor Tamara Ownsworth from Griffith University demonstrated the positive impact of the telehealth Making Sense of Brain Tumour (Tele-MAST) for improving mental health and quality of life of individuals with brain tumour, as the well as the potential for this program to ease the financial burden on the healthcare system . Tele-MAST is now being adopted by the Cancer Council Queensland as the statewide model of psychosocial support for people with brain tumour and their families.
Griffith University researchers (Professor Tamara Ownsworth, Dr Kasia Lion and Julia Robertson) are now collaborating with Metro South Health (Radiation Oncology, Princess Alexandra Hospital), The Mark Hughes Foundation and Peace of Mind Foundation to tackle further challenges faced by people with brain tumour and their families.
Funded by the Mark Hughes Foundation Centre for Brain Cancer, the first project partners with people with brain tumour and family members to develop and trial a communication and emotional support skills training program for medical, nursing, and allied health professionals working with people with brain tumour and their families.
"There was nothing but a cold hard clinical diagnosis....no offer of pre-surgery counselling to deal with the human side of it....we were left swinging pretty wildly in the wind.” (Ownsworth et al., 2011, p. 129)
Health professionals' (HPs) approach to communicating the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment, and response to questions and distress has an immeasurable impact on the emotional wellbeing of people with a brain tumour and their family members. HPs report gaps in their knowledge and skills and often lack confidence with communication and providing emotional support. In the first phase, we will seek input from consumers and HPs on the focus and approach to training with a view to understanding the priority areas to include in training programs and optimal approach (i.e., what and how to train HPs). For the second phase, we will focus on evaluating the impact of this training on HPs' knowledge, skills and confidence.
The second project is funded by the Metro South Health Research Support Scheme and aims to co-design and pilot a multimedia educational platform specific to the needs of people with benign brain tumour and lower-grade glioma
“We just wish that someone would have said to us right at the beginning here’s a very good guide, because when you have a brain tumour situation, oh you’re lost” (Ownsworth et al., 2015, p.7-18).
Benign or non-malignant brain tumours account for 70% of all brain and other CNS tumours. Yet, the information and support needs of this group are frequently overlooked despite them experiencing similar levels of distress and everyday impacts to those with malignant brain tumour. This project aims to improve people’s ability to find, understand and use information about brain tumour and share this knowledge with their support networks. In partnership with consumers and multidisciplinary healthcare providers, the project will result in new online resources that can be rapidly taken up in practice to improve the quality service provision and continuity of care for this population.
Professor Tamara Ownsworth, Research Director (Research Development) at The Hopkins Centre, Griffith University, is a clinical neuropsychologist with more than 25-years’ experience in rehabilitation and psychosocial intervention for people with acquired brain injury, including traumatic brain injury, brain tumour, stroke and dementia.
More about Enhancing quality of life for brain tumour survivors: https://news.griffith.edu.au/2023/07/25/enhancing-quality-of-life-for-brain-tumour-survivors/
Find out more about Brain Awareness Week: https://brainfoundation.org.au/brain-awareness-week/
-
Humanising Healthcare: A Futurist's Perspective on Disability and Pharmacies
Share Humanising Healthcare: A Futurist's Perspective on Disability and Pharmacies on Facebook Share Humanising Healthcare: A Futurist's Perspective on Disability and Pharmacies on Twitter Share Humanising Healthcare: A Futurist's Perspective on Disability and Pharmacies on Linkedin Email Humanising Healthcare: A Futurist's Perspective on Disability and Pharmacies link
A montage of images from APP 2024 including Morris Misel, Prof. Elizabeth Kendall, Julia Robertson, Julie Rogan and Dr. Chris Edwards.Last Friday at APP 2024 the Australian Pharmacy Professional's Annual Conference on the Gold Coast, Morris Misel had the privilege of chairing a powerful panel discussion on disability and community pharmacists.
These conversations are critical to shaping the future of healthcare, and this session was a shining example of why.
The panel, drawn from Griffith University's Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability community (a network of 500+ incredible individuals with lived experience of disability), featured Dr Chris Edwards, Julia Robertson and Julie Rogan each sharing their unique perspective on navigating community pharmacies.
From sensory overload for individuals with autism to medication delays due to unnecessary concerns, their stories highlighted the importance of human connection in healthcare.
When pharmacists took the time to understand their needs, the experience was positive. When communication faltered, frustration arose.
The best part? The audience, both in-person and online, fostered a fantastic atmosphere of acceptance. Pharmacists felt comfortable asking insightful questions and the panellists were thrilled to share their experiences.
Honest dialogue, where everyone is heard without fear of offense, is the cornerstone of progress.
Here's the exciting part: APP offered practical solutions!
From government programs allowing for more pharmacist-patient interaction to readily implemented processes, there are tangible steps we can take today.
The Takeaway: Disability Impacts Everyone
Disability affects 1 in 4 Australians, if you include those with chronic pain, as well as carers & families the figure jumps to 7 in 10 Australians are directly impacted by disability.
Imagine if any other business ignored such a significant, loyal customer base?
Pharmacies have a golden opportunity to improve access and care for a vast demographic.
By listening to the voices of lived experience, we will create a more inclusive and effective healthcare system for all.
Ready to Start a Conversation?
If you're looking to integrate lived experience disability voices into your industry or business, we can help! Whether it's a chat, panel discussion, keynote address, or strategy workshop, let's create impactful conversations that pave the way for a more inclusive future.
A huge thank you to #APP24 for providing a platform for this crucial conversation, and to Dr. Chris Edwards, Julia Robertson, and Julie Rogan for bravely sharing their stories and insights. Your openness paves the way for a more understanding and inclusive healthcare system!Video and Transcript
If you missed this exciting Guild APP panel session, view the video recording on our Inclusive Futures YouTube Account here. A written transcript is also available, please contact j.kek-pamenter@griffith.edu.au or inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au for an accessible copy. -
Inclusive Futures Author Talk Series: Matt Levy OAM PLY "Going the Distance: Identify and create your own lane to success"
Share Inclusive Futures Author Talk Series: Matt Levy OAM PLY "Going the Distance: Identify and create your own lane to success" on Facebook Share Inclusive Futures Author Talk Series: Matt Levy OAM PLY "Going the Distance: Identify and create your own lane to success" on Twitter Share Inclusive Futures Author Talk Series: Matt Levy OAM PLY "Going the Distance: Identify and create your own lane to success" on Linkedin Email Inclusive Futures Author Talk Series: Matt Levy OAM PLY "Going the Distance: Identify and create your own lane to success" link
Disability Inclusion Author Talk Series: With guest speaker, Matt Levy OAM PLY Paralympian and author of ‘Going the Distance: Identify and create your own lane to success’. Hosted by Dr Maretta Mann.
Matt Levy OAM PLY with Dr. Maretta Mann Last Tuesday, 27 February, Griffith Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability hosted esteemed guest Matt Levy OAM PLY, Australian Paralympian and author of “Going the Distance”.
In his talk, Matt shared his life journey, marked by early challenges due to being born prematurely with cerebral palsy, and emphasised the transformative role of swimming therapy in overcoming his physical limitations. Matt also discussed the impact of cerebral palsy on his daily life, highlighting the importance of recognising that disabilities affect individuals differently.
From top left to right: Matt Levy OAM; Julia Robertson together with Matt Levy and Mark Berridge; Attendees at the Author Talk held at Nathan Campus, Griffith University.Matt has developed a framework based on his experiences. He stressed the significance of setting manageable goals, driven by passion and belief. He told us the story of where it all started for him, when he was left behind at the pool after the school swimming carnival. He found a way to navigate across Sydney via public transport to get home that took him over three hours and it taught him a crucial lesson in goal-setting.
Matt also detailed his remarkable achievements, participating in five Paralympic Games, emphasising that the journey and the learning experiences matter more than the accolades. Matt also reflected on a pivotal moment during the 2008 Paralympic Games when he realised the need for a change in attitude and commitment to continuous improvement.
He delved into the importance of having a dream, a desire, and creating tools for success. Matt shared the necessity of focusing on the purpose behind one's actions, particularly during challenging days, and encouraged attendees to make the most out of every moment, whether positive or negative.
Matt introduced his ‘action plan’, breaking down big goals into smaller, manageable steps, and underscored the importance of simplicity and a focused approach in achieving success, drawing parallels between his training sessions and broader life goals.
Matt also emphasied the role of a supportive team, including family, friends, colleagues, and coaches, in personal growth., and highlighted the significance of engaging with one's inner circle through meaningful conversations, collaborations, and shared experiences.
Wapping up a most impactful Author Talk, Matt concluded by stressing the value of lifting each other higher and turning negatives into positives through supportive relationships.I was so inspired by Matt, who has achieved so much success by following a process of setting goals and then working towards them, and also of approaching the setbacks or disappointments as an opportunity for reflection, learning and growth.
Matt also encouraged others not to compare themselves with others, but to follow one’s own path.
I think everyone in the room left feeling encouraged by Matt’s practical and inspiring approach to reaching your potential.
From top left to right: Prof. David Thiel; Cathy Easte, Tara Horner and Matt Levy OAM PLY, Captioner Roxane Lane; and Nathaniel Audley, Tara Horner, Maureen Sullivan and Mark Berridge.TRANSCRIPT:
If you wish to obtain a transcript of Matt’s keynote talk, please email the Inclusive Futures: Reimagining team at: inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Our next Author Talk guest is the highly esteemed Mary Li – Principal Repetiteur and Ballet Mistress with the Queensland Ballet and author of “Mary’s Last Dance”, to be held on Wednesday, 3 April 11.30am-1.30pm, at the Queensland Conservatorium (QCGU) Foyer, SO1, Southbank Campus, Griffith University.
Register for this FREE and inclusive event on this link: https://shorturl.at/JOV46
-
Unlocking the Game to ‘Count Her In’: A Thought-Provoking Conversation on International Women's Day
Share Unlocking the Game to ‘Count Her In’: A Thought-Provoking Conversation on International Women's Day on Facebook Share Unlocking the Game to ‘Count Her In’: A Thought-Provoking Conversation on International Women's Day on Twitter Share Unlocking the Game to ‘Count Her In’: A Thought-Provoking Conversation on International Women's Day on Linkedin Email Unlocking the Game to ‘Count Her In’: A Thought-Provoking Conversation on International Women's Day link
Join us as experts from Griffith University’s Sport and Gender Equity (SaGE) team delve into the critical aspects of investing in women's sports, exploring transforming policy frameworks, gender budgeting, and the transformative power of research.
From dismantling stereotypes to ensuring inclusivity for women with disability, this conversation values intersectional thinking and diverse meanings of ‘sport’ to go beyond the scoreline. Our Griffith feminist sport researchers offer insights into reshaping the narrative and fostering greater equity in the world of sport on and off the field.
Guest Speakers:
Professor Simone Fullagar – Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability “Inclusive Play” Theme Lead
https://experts.griffith.edu.au/19065-simone-fullagarAssociate Professor Adele Pavlidis
https://experts.griffith.edu.au/7436-adele-pavlidisDr Diti Bhattacharya
https://experts.griffith.edu.au/10229-diti-bhattacharyaDr Georgia Munro-Cook
https://experts.griffith.edu.au/38757-georgia-munrocookVisit the SAGE Website
https://www.griffith.edu.au/griffith-business-school/department-tourism-sport-hotel-management/sage-at-griffithVideo link: https://youtu.be/c1IZadlE_tE
Acknowledgement of Country:
Griffith University acknowledges the people who are the traditional custodians of the land and pays respect to the Elders, past and present, and extends that respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. South Bank, Nathan and Mount Gravatt campuses are situated on the land of the Yugarabul, Yuggera, Jagera and Turrbal peoples. Logan is situated on the land of the Yuggera, Turrbal, Yugarabul, Jagera and Yugambeh peoples. The Gold Coast is situated on the land of the Yugambeh/Kombumerri peoples.
