Hanna Rabb’s Post

Thrilled to share the completion of my content writing internship at 'Access for Everyone'!📝 This month was a deep dive into crafting impactful content that prioritises inclusivity and empowers individuals with disabilities for positive societal change.✅ Exploring a new side of content writing, I addressed disability within the lenses of diverse religions, cultures, and attitudes. Apart from words on a page, it evolved my content into an eye-opening journey, understanding the distinct challenges faced by the disabled community in various social contexts.🌐 From unraveling how different religions perceive disability to examining the influence of culture on accessibility, each piece became a bridge to foster understanding. It was about weaving narratives resonating across diverse backgrounds, creating collective awareness of the hurdles faced by those with disabilities.✏️ As we conclude, I'm not just grateful for the chance to raise awareness; there's a call to action. As non-disabled individuals, let's actively contribute to a more supportive and accessible environment. Cheers to the power of inclusive words and stories, shaping a society where everyone is celebrated and empowered, regardless of their mental or physical ability. 🌍💙 #InclusiveContent #Empowerment #SupportInclusion #AccessForEveryone

I admire my @ChemonicsInternational colleagues worldwide who take deliberate and meaningful action to strengthen #DisabilityInclusion wherever they work. For example, check out this new blog post, written by my colleagues Rachel Chaikof and Ivan Plis, to learn what our teammates in Bosnia and Herzegovina and in Jordan have done to make their workplaces more #accessible & #inclusive through #internship programs. #IDPWD #16DaysOfActivism http://ow.ly/r7uZ1054ooW

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize how individuals with disabilities not only enhance workplace culture and performance but also contribute to innovation and creativity. Despite these clear benefits, they remain an untapped talent pool in the workforce. Help us use #NDEAM to raise awareness and encourage more companies to hire people with disabilities by liking this post and sharing it with your network! Learn more about employees with disabilities: https://bit.ly/NDEAM2023

Transforming Perspectives: The Value of Disability Disclosure and Personal Stories in Internship Applications In my review of applications for Trinity College Dublin's inclusive disabled student internship program for the summer of 2024, I uncovered rich insights that underscore the need for a deeper conversation about the internship application process, particularly for disabled students. With over 26 posts available this summer and over 300 applications thus far, I saw a wide range of approaches in the applications submitted, from highly personalised stories to more generic submissions. However, two aspects stood out: the power of personal stories and the disclosure of disabilities. The Power of Personal Narratives Personal stories in cover letters are more than just a narrative; they're a window into the applicant's world. These stories offer a deeper understanding of the candidates' backgrounds, motivations, and the unique perspectives they bring to the table. Candidates who share their journeys not only demonstrate thoughtful consideration in their submissions but also showcase their resilience, creativity, and problem-solving skills—qualities that are invaluable in any professional setting. Despite the compelling nature of these narratives, few applicants choose to share their personal stories or disclose their disabilities. This reticence may stem from a concern over how such disclosures will be received by potential employers, a concern supported by existing research which suggests that disability disclosure in the recruitment process isn't always viewed positively. Reframing Disability Disclosure The disclosure of a disability should be seen as a strength, not a vulnerability. It speaks to an applicant's lived experience navigating challenges and adapting to various situations—skills that are highly transferable to the workplace. Yet, the reality is that many still hesitate to disclose their disabilities, fearing bias or misunderstanding. As employers, educators, and colleagues, we have a responsibility to shift this narrative. We must create environments where disclosure is met with support, understanding, and a genuine appreciation for the diversity of experience that disabled individuals bring to the table. The insights gained from this year's application review highlight a valuable opportunity for continuous improvement in our internship programs and recruitment initiatives. Through this process, we aim to strengthen our recruitment practices to recognize and value the unique contributions of all candidates, particularly those with disabilities. The journey towards inclusivity and understanding is ongoing, but by changing the dialogue around disability and personal stories in applications, we can take significant steps forward. https://lnkd.in/dF8YzajW #DisabilityInclusion #InclusiveHiring #CareerDevelopment #DiversityAndInclusion #PersonalStories

Five positive actions to help create an inclusive workplace for disabled people, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing. 1. Provide vocational training opportunities specifically designed for disabled people to enhance their skills and employability. 2. Implement work trials or internships to give disabled candidates practical experience and assess their suitability for a role. 3. Identify and remove any barriers that may prevent disabled applicants from participating fully in the recruitment process. 4. Guarantee interviews for all applicants with a disability who meet the minimum criteria for the job. 5. Consider ring-fencing certain positions specifically for disabled people to promote representation and inclusion. We can advise you on the available support and how to access it. Contact our employer advice line by emailing information@equalityni.org or calling 028 90 500 600 (Mon-Fri). You can learn more about positive action to recruit people with disabilities here 👇 https://lnkd.in/ej-zCDTV #DeafAwarenessWeek

1985 brought The Golden Girls into our homes. The show was all about the most RIDICULOUS concept - That old is still ALIVE and you can have the time of your life AFTER 50! All of us Gen X kids were LUCKY to grow up with such a ridiculous notion. Because it turns out to be true. It is because of these bad-ass ladies that instead if dreading old age, I've looked forward to it. In my 40s, I feel like I'm just catching up to these wonder ladies. I'm so grateful for their example. Unfortunately the corporate world does not agree. I find I'm being interviewed by people who are younger than me with a completely different system of ethics. It's not that I refuse to learn new things and learn the new vibe, it's that I don't agree with it most of it. And it turns out I'm expected to walk in the door with the information a 20 or 30 year old was just indoctrinated with in college, and if i dont already have it on my resume, my resume is thrown in the "no" pile. Along with all my experience and talent. I don't believe ANYONE should be required to have a college degree. EXPERIENCE is all you should need to be employed. Internships and apprenticeships are THE BEST way to earn these. And the way to measure that experience IS NOT these new "badges" that Google and LinkedIn make you pay for, but references, a portfolio, other people who have actually worked with you and EXPERIENCED you handling these requirements. There seems to be no more "human" in the work place. Just standardized tests and metrics. That's not employment, that's the Matrix. I'm not a machine to be plugged in. While at Benchmark Builders I had the opportunity to hire an assistant right out of college, fresh and new. Instead I hired an assistant fresh out of 20 years of full time homebuilding and motherhood. And it was one of the best decisions I ever made. She was nothing short of a beast. And pretty soon my co-workers were using her to help them as well. So I'm going to celebrate being what I assume is considered an old lady. A relic. And love every minute of it. I've always looked up to my elders and never understood youth-worship. So I'll try to be an example for those that care to watch. And in the meantime, I'm going to keep enjoying life. 😉

Are you content with what you do? If not, here's a story that might help! 🌟 So, my grandmother served at the Blind Relief Association for about two decades where she taught the blind children, would recite stories and record audio cassettes for them. During my summer vacations, I would go with her to volunteer and that made me happy.  One day out of curiosity, I asked her why she did what she did and her response stayed with me.  She did this because she was passionate about improving the lives of those she could help. “It's this passion that keeps me eagerly looking forward to each day and I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” she quoted. I remember in my first year of college, I was trying to find internships where I could get hands-on experience and amidst the search, I came across Child Rights and You (CRY), an organization that serves the underprivileged children - for health, education & safety. The cause caught my eye. Soon after, I got a chance to work as a volunteer where I would go to a village in Delhi every weekend to teach the kids. My takeaway from this experience? Empathy and Compassion - two things that have helped me to become a better person professionally and personally. It was not easy but again, the passion in me to create whatever little impact I could kept me going. So, I believe at the end of the day, do what makes you happy or puts your mind at peace!!! ✨ #motivation #storytelling

🌟 Empowering Lives through REVEL's Employment Program 🌟 At REVEL, we believe in the transformative power of employment to bridge gaps and empower individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs). Our employment program is not just a job training initiative; it's a holistic approach that nurtures personal and professional growth. 🚀 Tailored Training for Individual Success In a world that values uniqueness, our program is designed to recognize and celebrate the individual strengths and needs of each participant. Through personalized plans, sensory-friendly environments, and comprehensive life skills training, we lay the groundwork for holistic development. 💡 Beyond the Workplace: Real-world Experiences Our approach extends beyond traditional job training. We provide real-world experiences through job shadowing, internships, and community engagement, preparing participants for meaningful careers and fostering independence. 🌐 Denver and Beyond: Creating Opportunities Denver is witnessing a positive shift in embracing neurodiversity in workplaces, and REVEL is at the forefront. Our participants gain exposure to various employment fields, contributing to the creation of an inclusive workforce that recognizes and values diverse talents. 🙌 Building Resilient Communities Empowering individuals with autism and I/DDs goes beyond employment. It's about breaking barriers, fostering understanding, and building resilient communities. Our employment program is a catalyst for change, creating a future where everyone can contribute meaningfully. 🌈✨ Join the Movement: Redefining Empowerment Whether you're part of our community, a potential partner, or someone passionate about making a difference, we invite you to join the movement. Let's redefine empowerment, break down barriers, and pave the way for a more inclusive and understanding society. Together, at REVEL, we're not just transforming lives; we're building a future where every individual, regardless of neurodiversity, can lead a life that is not only meaningful but enriched with purpose. 🌟 #REVELEmployment #InclusiveFuture #NeurodiversityEmpowerment #RevelInLife #AutismAcceptance #LifeWithoutLimits #DisabilityInclusion

The disability employment gap is real, and it needs to change. ⬇️ Employment rates for disabled people have dropped since the COVID-19 pandemic 📉 Disabled students with mental health conditions are less likely to secure high level employment ❌ Companies need to reduce barriers that prevent disabled people from entering the workforce Our Foundation is working to break down barriers by creating life-changing PAID internship opportunities for Disabled students and graduates nationwide.  Sign up to our mailing list to follow our work in the #DiversityandInclusion space: https://lnkd.in/eBRiTMtD #10000AbleInterns #EqualOpportunities #DisabilityInclusion #DisabilityEmployment #DisabilityAwareness

🌟 It was an AMAZING Day 8 of Session B at Hope Haven's Summer Career Camp! 🌟 👉Our career campers kicked off their morning in the Job Exploration Session with a burst of creativity, making Summer Community Helper Hand Puppets. They picked their favorite community helpers and got busy crafting lifeguards, park rangers, doctors, librarians, and more! The room was buzzing with excitement as they brought their puppets to life, learning about the roles and responsibilities of each helper. 👉As part of their job duties today, they tackled the much-needed but often overlooked skill of laundry tending. They learned the proper way to fold clothes and the importance of keeping their work neat and presentable. It was a hands-on lesson in maintaining professionalism and attention to detail. In Work Readiness, our campers got some great life advice about procrastination from an unexpected source—SpongeBob SquarePants. Through the hilarious episode, they discovered valuable lessons: 🔹Procrastination exists and needs to be managed. 🔹It’s quicker and more satisfying to complete a task than to put it off. 🔹Listening to that little voice urging you to get back to work is crucial. 🔹The longer you delay a task, the more daunting it seems. 🔹Completing tasks brings a great sense of achievement. 👉The day got even more fun and engaging during music therapy with Ms. Emily from Upbeat Music, in partnership with Cathedral Arts Project. Our campers got their rhythm going with their favorite Boomwhackers, creating vibrant and rhythmic tunes that had everyone dancing and laughing. It’s not too late to register your students aged 14-21 with an IEP or 504 Plan for our upcoming sessions. Each session runs for 2 weeks, and a separate Vocational Rehabilitation referral is needed for each one. Click here 👉 https://lnkd.in/dMJ9Eyc to learn more about signing up for Hope Haven's Career Camp! #CareerCamp #HopeHaven #FutureLeaders #SummerFun #CreativeLearning 🌟🎨🎶