The Ability Beyond Disability podcast series aims to promote understanding and support for disability rights through inspiring stories and discussions featuring role models in leadership positions. Each episode consists of engaging interviews with guests who share their experiences and insights, fostering a community of empowerment.
Episode 1 | Aproximar | Jwana Godinho
On this episode, we’ll delve into the critical topic of inclusive leadership and disability integration in the workplace. Our guest is Jwana Godinho, co-founder of Access Lab. While Access Lab is known for its work in cultural accessibility, Jwana brings valuable insights into inclusive practices that are equally relevant to the labour market. In this conversation, we’ll explore what inclusive leadership truly means in the context of employment, the unique challenges and opportunities around disability inclusion in the workplace, and practical advice for leaders striving to create more inclusive and diverse teams. We’re eager to learn from Jwana’s experience and discuss how the principles of inclusion she has applied in the cultural sector can be translated to the broader labour market. We’ll be diving deeper into these topics throughout our conversation, exploring best practices for recruitment, workplace accommodations, and fostering an inclusive company culture. So, let’s begin our exploration of how leaders can drive meaningful change in disability inclusion and integration in the labour market.
Episode 2 | myAbility | Gregor Demblin
In this episode, we explore how businesses can break down barriers and create inclusive workplaces for people with disabilities. Our guest, Gregor Demblin, is a successful entrepreneur and founder of Career Moves, myAbility, and Tech2People. He shares his personal journey, insights into inclusive leadership, and how companies can benefit from diversity. Tune in for an inspiring contribution on accessibility, innovation, and the future of work!
Episode 3 | iED | Agapi Kolovou
In this episode, we focus on inclusive leadership and the essential competencies needed to foster workplace inclusion. We will delve into the key skills identified in the Fit2LEAD Competency Radar and discuss how leaders can develop these abilities to create a more equitable and welcoming work environment. Our guest today is Agapi Kolovou, Adult Educator, Nurse, and Head of the Department of Psychosocial Support and Social Inclusion at the Social Welfare Center of Thessaly. With extensive experience in education and workforce integration, Agapi brings valuable insights into how leadership skills can drive inclusion and diversity in professional settings. Through this conversation, we will explore the main challenges leaders face when striving to build inclusive teams and highlight best practices that promote workplace equality. So, let’s begin our exploration of how inclusive leadership can reshape the work environment and create opportunities for all.
Episode 4 | Sustento | Gunta Anča
In this podcast episode, Irīna Meļņika, Head of Communications at the Latvian Umbrella Body for Disability Organisations SUSTENTO, and Gunta Anča, Chair of the Board at SUSTENTO and a disability rights advocacy expert with over 20 years of experience, engage in a conversation about the power of social media in raising awareness about disability. They explore how social media can be a powerful tool for breaking down stereotypes, encouraging empathy, and shifting public perceptions – especially among younger generations. The episode highlights the impact of personal stories, the importance of visual and interactive content, and the role of influencers with disabilities in shaping a more inclusive narrative. Listeners will hear practical examples of successful campaigns and gain insight into how future initiatives can be made more authentic, inclusive, and sustainable. The episode concludes with a call to action: to actively support and share content that promotes a more inclusive society.
Episode 5 | Aproximar | Ricardo Teixeira
Ricardo Teixeira is a serial entrepreneur, CEO of CompuWorks and business strategist with almost 30 years’ experience. Founder of multiple companies in sectors such as technology, catering and construction, he has impacted more than 80 major brands in Portugal and the UK, including Vodafone, EDP and Accenture. He is known for his results-oriented approach, agile execution and focus on innovation. A tetraplegic since the age of 17, he has turned resilience into his greatest competitive advantage, leading with purpose, vision and determination.
Episode 6 | Bit | Mag. Carmen Schrotter-Stadlauer
Mag. Carmen Schrotter-Stadlauer is in charge of the Accessible Working Service Centre at the Technical University of Graz. Together with her colleagues, she supports 150 students. As part of her role, she and her team act as contact persons for teaching staff, supporting them in implementing inclusive teaching methods. The university also carries out a lot of awareness-raising work.