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

The Disability Reform Summit was hosted by the Dignity Project and funded by an Engaging Science Grant from the Department of Environment and Science.

The Summit brought together a diverse group of citizen scientists, Queensland disability researchers and academics, and key disability persons and advocacy organisations for a collaborative agenda-setting workshop.

The workshop sought to co-create priorities for research based on the NDIS Review recommendations, Disability Royal Commission recommendations, and the Voice of Queenslanders with Disability report recommendations, while moving towards evidence-based solutions that will directly contribute to government and service responses.

Twenty-one attendees worked collaboratively over a 4-hour workshop and identified key priorities, much of which was focused on improving disability data collection, better implementation of consistent disability flags across mainstream services, and increasing sustainable long-term partnerships and funding.

Workshop attendees wanted to prioritise projects that focus on building evidence for knowledge and evidence gaps, although 50% of participants also wanted to examine existing interventions to evaluate and improve them.

L-R: Dr Kelsey Chapman; Dr Talitha Kingsmill and Sharon White; and Nerine Williams.

TOPICS AND INSIGHTS

Health and Wellbeing:

• Promoting health consumerism principles and access for all.
• Shifting from reactive to pre-emptive health strategies.
• Addressing disparities in health equity and access.
• Campaigns like 'Hear Me, See Me, Understand Me' and involving lived experiences in decisions.
• Potential research includes integrating health awareness into education and enhancing professional understanding of diverse needs.

Employment and Financial Security:

• Psychological safety and accommodations in the workplace.
• Inclusive recruitment, onboarding, and raising employment expectations.
• Examining current inclusive policies and staff training in unconscious bias.
• Potential research includes building inclusive research teams and understanding confidence in disability-related conversations.

Top: Panelists Prof. Elizabeth Kendall AM, Dr Talitha Kingsmill, Sharon White and Prof. David Trembath. Bottom: Dr Kelsey Chapman leads the summit workshop activities. Inclusive Education and Learning:

• Need for inclusive school rules and evolving educational practices.
• Redesigning assessment methods and promoting reasonable adjustments.
• Potential research focuses on leadership attitudes and diverse perspectives in education, reassessing student success metrics.

Inclusive and Accessible Communities:

• Evaluating compliance vs. actual accessibility and inclusion.
• Measuring community inclusion and the impact of co-design.
• Opportunities like Brisbane 2032 for updating infrastructure and promoting universal accessibility.

Disability Data:

• Enhancing researcher capability and implementing consistent disability data flags.
• Prioritising projects to build evidence and evaluate existing interventions.
• Balancing academic interest with immediate social needs through co-design and sustainable partnerships.

Top L-R: Sharon White and Prof. David Trembath; Julia Robertson.
Bottom L-R: Dr Eloise Hummell and Nerine Williams; Geoff Trappett; Dr Maretta Mann. We extend our gratitude to the Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science for their support of this research. Our deepest thanks also go to Dr. Kelsey Chapman, Lead Researcher, and the Griffith University's Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability team, including Rebekah Barker, Joe-Anne Kek-Pamenter, Dr. Maretta Mann, and Professor Elizabeth Kendall AM, for their invaluable assistance in organising this event. Additionally, we appreciate the continuous dedication and support of our Summit participants and the wider Dignity Project team.

Special thanks to Eric Tram, our videographer, illustrators Holly Bryant & Cate Withers and the team at Griffith University Live Worm (Libbi Reed, Jacqui Hancox and Sharon Searle) for their engaging Sketch Notes that beautifully captured the topics and insights of the Summit.

Top L-R: Prof David Trembath; Dr Kelsey Chapman; Dr Eloise Hummell.
Bottom L-R: Summit Participants; Prof. Elizabeth Kendall AM.

Top L-R: Dr Talitha Kingsmill and Karin Swift.
Bottom: Dr Maretta Mann and Dr Kelsey Chapman lead discussion amongst their group.

Acknowledgement

The Disability Reform Summit was funded by an Engaging Science Grant from the Queensland Department of Environment and Science and the Office of the Chief Scientist.

Watch the Disability Reform Summit highlights on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Wz2UJ08xOP0?si=xIu1T75BSAVJTm58 (Videographer: Eric Tram).

Join us in moving from recommendations to real change!

More information: Dr Kelsey Chapman, Research Fellow and Citizen Science Manager k.chapman@griffith.edu.au

SKETCH NOTES

For an accessible / alternate format of our sketch notes, please email inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au

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 Lead

Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Griffith University

Email: qdrn@griffith.edu.au

Dr Talitha Kingsmill addresses the Brisbane workshop.

EVENT RECAP:
Dignified Representation of Disability and Diversity in the Media

Presented 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.

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/

Aunty Lauraine Barlow presents the FASD team with a very special painting 'ngabi wugu gabar' (many working arms). Pictured L-R: Prof. Dianne Shanley, Dr. Erinn Hawkins, Dr. Wei Liu, Aunty Lauraine Barlow, Dr. Leda Barnett and Prof. Elizabeth Kendall.

This week, the Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability team welcomed Aunty Lauraine Barlow, Cultural Steward and Research Advisor to an afternoon tea in her honour, along with the amazing team of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) researchers, led by Professor Dianne Shanley.

The team, including Prof. Elizabeth Kendal, Director of Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, together with Prof. Dianne Shanley, Dr. Leda Barnett, Dr. Wei Liu and Dr. Erinn Hawkins had a lovely afternoon with Aunty Lauraine, who presented us with a very special painting that represents inclusive futures.

The FASD team have been working on a groundbreaking, no barriers new healthcare model – The Yapatjarrathati Projects. Find out more here: https://www.griffith.edu.au/research/impact/yapatjarrathati-projects

Artist and Cultural Steward Aunty Lauraine Barlow

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Aunty Lauraine Barlow is a descendant of Mandingalpa Clan, Yidiny tribe and Rimanggudinhma Clan, Lama Lama tribe in North Queensland. Her Aboriginal name is Jana-n Mandingalbay / Jigiddirri Jigiddirri, which means “standout willy wagtail”. Recently, she was honoured with a third name, Buligud, which means Grandmother.

Aunty Lauraine has experience of chronic illness and disability both personally and in her family members. She has always participated in research, but as more than a ‘subject’ of research. She is a community researcher who takes control of the way in which research is conducted so it remains respectful of her people and the land of her ancestors.

She promotes the use of art as a medium for sharing healing stories. She is a healer herself, and has completed her qualifications as a Health Worker, a telephone counsellor, a community health promotion consultant and peer leader of self-management courses. She has helped hundreds of Indigenous women with illnesses and disabilities to regain their strength and culture.

Aunty Lauraine has a long history with Griffith University, having first advised on a research project in 2003. Since that time, she has continued to support research projects and ensure that proper protocols are followed.

Pictured L-R: Prof. Dr. Leda Barnett, Prof. Elizabeth Kendall, Aunty Lauraine Barlow, Dianne Shanley, Dr. Erinn Hawkins, and Dr. Wei Liu.

ARTIST STATEMENT

ngabi wugu gabar (Many working arms)

Pronounced ngaa-bee woo-goo kubb-a from Yidinji Language

This painting represents the research at Griffith Inclusive Futures and was painted to celebrate the commitment of the program to improving the lives of First Nations (and all Australian) people with disability.

The four handprints mean ownership by energetic, clever and confident individuals with leadership skills who are dedicated to advancing knowledge. They signify story telling, gathering of stories and keeping them safe.

The Ocyopus has eight arms that symbolise movement and pathways of energy.

Each Octopus arm works independently of each other but also together. All researchers are walking and journeying together on the one path.

The circles each consist of seven women and men all sitting together to reach positive solutions. They are great communicators, laying down weapons and sharing work tools. The circles represent the completeness that is reached through collaboration and agreement.

The footprints travel in an anti-clockwise direction which means a place for rethinking, re-working ideas, revisiting, and recycling solutions.

The octopus is an intelligent being that shines in all forms of thoughts, ideas, and dreams. It denotes authority, self-confidence, inner-strength, inner wisdom, and social status.

The Octopus is a positive thinker, sincere, understanding, and spiritual. It has three hearts (all 3 are used for swimming but only 2 used for walking) meaning the Octopus has great love for humanity and desire for peace.

The red tracks with white corals and foam represent the impact the Octopus has as it swims and walks around in the ocean. It leaves a foamy trail, especially when swimming fast.

The single red mark is a mermaid’s purse which represents deep waters. Deep waters that are not yet fully understood attract the attention of this inquisitive being.

Professor Elizabeth Kendall (Director - Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability) and Aunty Lauraine Barlow (Cultural Steward and Research Advisor.

CONTACT

Aunty Lauraine J. Barlow JP (Qual)
Jana-n Mandingalbay / Jigiddirri Jigiddirri Bulugud

Elder, Aboriginal Steward and Knowledge Bearer
Cultural Weaver, Story and Cultural Space Feeler

+61 0488 121 686 | gnullbin@yahoo.com.au

or email inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au

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, Mark

Published by
Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, Griffith University

Please contact Dr. Paula Mowbray for further information:

Phone: (07) 3735 4708
Email: p.mowbray@griffith.edu.au

Griffith University Ethics Approval: 2022/894

Unlocking Inclusive Futures through Diverse Voices

Embrace the Power of Inclusivity

In a world striving for progress, true innovation comes from hearing and embracing diversity in all its forms.

We proudly present Inclusive Voices, a pioneering force driving forward inclusive thinking in community, in business and in government.

Our vibrant community of over 500 people with lived experience of disability, supported by decades of cutting-edge disability research, makes us the premier destination for corporations and governments seeking transformative disability-centric change.

Dr Vanesa Bochkezanian (CQU), Dwayne Fernandes, Dr Maretta Mann (Griffith University), and Timothy Lachlan address the audience at the Inclusivity In Play Pitch, 2022.

Why Inclusive Voices?

The Numbers Don't Lie

With over 4 million Australians living with disability, representing 18% of our population, and even more people living with chronic disabling conditions, the potential for meaningful engagement and collaboration is vast.

Yet, the knowledge of people with disability remains vastly untapped by industry, offering us huge possibilities for creativity, and unparalleled insights waiting to be unlocked.

Our Unique Approach

We bring together a dynamic alliance:

People with Disability: Our thriving community of 500+ individuals, each with a unique journey and invaluable perspective on disability.

Researchers, Designers, and Educators: Experts who understand the transformative power of collaboration and empathy.

Industry and Government Bodies: Partners dedicated to fostering a more inclusive society through meaningful action.

What We Offer

Personalised Consultations: Gain invaluable insights through one-on-one sessions with people with lived experiences or immersive focus groups, where our community members offer first-hand perspectives and innovative solutions.

Captivating Keynotes and Workshops: Let our Inclusive Voices speaking bureau inspire and educate with their compelling stories, experiences of using your products and services, shedding light on the true essence of disability and its implications for your organisation.

Product and Service Enhancement and Testings: Collaborate with our experts to refine your offerings, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of all individuals and drive meaningful impact.

Research Collaborations: Dive into, or commission, ground-breaking studies conducted by our researchers, bridging theory and practice to shape a more inclusive future for all.

Inclusivity in Play Pitch, 2022 Top L to R: Kathleen O'Kelly-Kennedy and Dr Kerry Hall; Dwayne Fernandes an Sara Shams
Bottom L to R: Timothy Lachlan; Timothy Lachlan, Dr Maretta Mann, Dwayne Fernandes and Dr Vanesa Bochkezanian.

Why Choose Inclusive Voices?

Unprecedented Access: We've streamlined the process, providing seamless access to our vibrant and unique community.

A Fresh Perspective: Shift your paradigm and see disability not as a limitation, but as a source of boundless creativity and resilience, inspiring innovative solutions.

Transformative Impact: By embracing inclusivity, you'll not only meet compliance standards but also unlock new avenues for innovation and growth, benefiting all of society.

A montage of images of Inclusive Futures events: From Left to Right - Madi de Rozario OAM and Daniel Clarke OAM at the Inclusivity In Play Pitch; Julia Robertson, Matt Levy OAM and Mark Berridge at the Inclusive Futures Book Club Author Talk; Audience at the Inclusivity in Play Pitch; Geoff Trappett; Geoff Trappett and Karin Swift at the Disability Reform Summit 2024.

Join Us

As the leading force in Australian disability research, Griffith University is committed to and backs Inclusive Voices.

Visit Griffith Inclusive Futures to learn more about ground-breaking disability research. Join us on a journey where inclusion isn't just a buzzword—it's a way of life.

Together, let's build a future where everyone thrives by harnessing the power of each person’s unique abilities.

Unlock Inclusive Futures. Transform Lives.

Contact Us

Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability

Email: inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au

Website: https://www.griffith.edu.au/research/inclusive-futures-reimagining-disability

Inclusive Futures Hub: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au

Follow Us

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/inclusive-futures-reimagining-disability

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/gu_incl_futures

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdzCWo_9R8XHDadRRVPnkw

Become an Inclusive Futures Member

https://shorturl.at/huDHQ

Mary Li together with Inclusive Futures Book Club and Author Talk host Dr. Maretta Mann

On 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.

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 (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/

[TO1]Can this say ‘….burden on the healthcare system’