Film
SIAM Works Toward a More Accessible World
As co-founder of the Spinal Injuries Association of Malawi (SIAM), Scader Louis works to address the needs of persons with spinal cord injuries from a rights-based approach. As a seasoned peer supporter, she also provides psychological support, disability rights awareness, transfer skills support, and more. Founded in 2011, SIAM is now in every district and region in Malawi. Louis talks about the challenges that come from an acquired disability like a spinal cord injury and how SIAM is working toward a more accessible world.
Julie-Marie Chibekete is an active member of the Spinal injuries Association of Malawi (SIAM). She has over ten years’ experience in community development and humanitarian work. Inspired by the struggles people in various communities go through to access basic needs, she has a passion for helping communities identify underlying causes of vulnerability and to realize equity in access. Chibekete says her spinal injury motivated her to make sure that members of the disability community are aware of and actively take part in utilizing their potential in local development initiatives.
SIAM is an association mandated to advocate for the needs and interests of disabled people living with spinal injuries so they can actively participate in society. Chibekete ensures the organization's goals are attained through peer support and other initiatives. #NoInclusionWithSelf-Exclusion.
About this video: Fazira Kauma toppled political barriers in Uganda when she became the first woman and the first blind citizen to be appointed deputy mayor in Jinja. She says disability representation in politics is key.
About this video: Women with disabilities in the Solomon Islands face barriers to employment. When Diana Ma’ahoro experienced these firsthand, she enrolled in a national leadership program. Now she's a renowned disability rights activist in the Pacific.
About this video: DJP Fellow Sita Sah explores the challenges and societal barriers faced by blind women in Nepal, highlighting both their personal struggles and the collective activism aimed at systemic change.
About this video: Kiribati native Ruby Nabetari has witnessed first-hand the severe and rapid impacts of global warming. She hopes that through theater, she can speak volumes to policymakers deciding the fates of climate-vulnerable nations.
About this video: Following her husband’s death by suicide, Santoshi BK experienced depression and hallucinations. She gained support through a self-help group and has become an advocate for those with psychosocial disabilities.
About this video: For many Indonesians with psychosocial disabilities, access to mental health care remains a challenge. With the help of a friend, 44-year-old Ardiansyah eventually found refuge in a local mosque.