the view from where i sit – Page 5 – The View from Where I Sit

Outside the Box Cafe

It’s Learning Disability Week at Outside the Box Cafe in Ilkley. They’re celebrating inclusivity with their OTB Print Group’s fantastic artwork!

The talented members created beautiful postcards based on the theme of Passage for the Ilkley Arts Secret Postcard Auction, which took place over the weekend of 7th – 9th June.

Outside the Box cafe is run by a local charity, Ilkley Community Enterprise Ltd, who are dedicated to community action, supporting people who have a learning disability and to re-investing any profits they make back into our local community.

Outside the Box is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

They offer a range of services designed to support and uplift those with learning disabilities:

Skill-building workshops to enhance confidence and independence
Inclusive employment opportunities, fostering a supportive workplace
Community engagement activities to build connections and friendships

Supporting individuals with learning disabilities isn’t just about meeting needs—it’s about recognising and nurturing their potential. Join them in making a difference and help them to create a more inclusive world!

https://www.outsidetheboxcafe.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2zIUGZZEZzY86rqhB5wS-MAEeIcTqST4pVKvn2w03uMiHaQhEwbYkjk0k_aem_jDNktFDz4Kmsy0XjGxXesA

23rd June 2024

Interview with Lwazi Ncube Foundation

I was given another wonderful opportunity to be interviewed by another disability oriented organisation called the Lwazi Ncube Foundation. The Lwazi Ncube Foundation is an organisation created to build, encourage and inspire others with disabilities.

Hello, Introduce yourself – Name and what you do. My name is Daniella Jade Lowe. I do not work for anyone, but I am working on marketing myself as an Accessibility Consultant. Journalism and Politics are my passion. I have a BA degree in History and Politics.

What type of disability do you have? At birth, I was diagnosed with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus which are neurological conditions. As a result, I use a wheelchair for mobility.

What is disability to you? The only disability is a bad attitude. I have a disability. It doesn’t completely define me; it just enhances me in a way which differentiates and strengthens me. My disability should be viewed as an ability: to see the world in a different way. I don’t really like the term because sometimes it indirectly implies someone is dysfunctional or helpless. The most important thing is to never make assumptions. Someone with a disability can be very, physically, fit and strong, highly intelligent and articulate.

What has been your experience from the time you remember till now? – positive and negative experiences. My life as a wheelchair user has been generally okay. Wheelchair Accessibility is frustrating. I was teased a little in school. Other than that, life is great.

How do you cope with: -daily activities – your disability, do you have times when you are down – people’s reactions towards you. I have carers, a Social worker, District Nurses, a GP, and extended family in this country. I am also in contact with a local disability charity in Yorkshire. I also have a friendly landlord.

How do you keep yourself motivated? I must stay organised and practice good time management. I also prioritise my plans. When it comes to religion, what is your belief in terms of how you were created? – do you blame God – do you trust God?

No, I do not blame God for the way that I was born/created. Yes I’ve been prayed over before about healing but I do love my life.

When it comes to the African society what has been your experience – if you have visited Africa what has been your experience? No experience

Compare the UK experience with the Caribbean experience. The weather is warmer in Bermuda than the UK. The UK is bigger than Bermuda. Wheelchair Accessibility and Disability Rights is better in the UK than Bermuda. What is your word or advice to those with disabilities? Don’t let people put you in a box. You have a voice, use it. What is your word or advice to the society?

Don’t give up on people with disabilities. Give them a chance at life. Don’t discriminate, neglect and push them to the side. Strive for inclusion for all.

Tell us about your platforms if you have any- Blog: The View from Where I Sit Facebook: Daniella Jade Lowe Instagram: @daniellajadelowe/@theviewfromwheresitblog To follow and support the Lwazi Ncube Foundation, you can stream their YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCep8lS9TmXP8GPZ3oRABhYA. They can also be found on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lwazincubefoundation/videos. Thank you!

9th January 2021