Speaking up - A 2024 Wrap Up
Speaking up is not always easy, while it is always a privilege.
Last year was a busy one, and some of my favourite moments happened while speaking about my passions: disability rights, accessibility, mental health, disability justice and more.
Below are some of those highlights.
In March I interviewed Hannah Diviney about her memoir. Connecting with the audience was best part about that event - hearing the impact of our words on others is always special.
On the podcasting front, I was recently interviewed on the podcast Disability Disrupters - a New Zealand based podcast about disrupting the status quo in disability. It was a pleasure to speak with Pam, and connect over our shared experience of working in the health sector. Pam asked interesting questions, and my favorite was what would I change in the disability sector.
On the radio front, I spoke with ABC about gossip and imposter syndrome, both were short and sweet interviews. I particularly enjoyed talking about imposter syndrome in light of the imposter syndrome workshop I facilitated through Writers Victoria. Facilitating that workshop was definitely a highlight from the year, as I combined my passions for mental health and writing.
Another highlight of 2024 was speaking with Jasper Peach on Able radio, when I got to talk about the importance of mental health support for disabled people and how to find the right support for you.
On a cool June evening a group of writers gathered at Doncaster library and I facilitated workshop about managing ableism, internalised ableism and writing consistency. It was a beautiful evening of connection, thinking and redefining meaning.
When I arrived at the Channel 31 studio for my interview with ALL IN I have to admit that I felt a little nervous. The experience was wonderful and as I moved away from the studio after speaking about mental health, disability justice and immigration, I felt a huge sense of pride.
In December to celebrate International Day of People With Disability and finish off the year, I had the great privilege of delivering my first keynote speech at St John of God Accord.
There have also been many other moments of speaking up and advocating this year- from social media, to my kids school, to professional meetings and everything in between.
It is with great hope that I conclude speaking up for 2024. I hope our words reach someone who needs to hear them.
Liel Bridgford
Psychologist, Writer, Educator
Kultivate Founder and Director
