Disabled leaders honoured for breaking barriers

Two outstanding members of the disabled community were celebrated on Tuesday for their leadership and entrepreneurial achievements, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s ongoing journey towards inclusivity.

Swayne Brown and Kimberly Puckering received Harambee Awards during a ceremony at the Barbados Council for the Disabled (BCD) office, highlighting the persistent contributions of individuals with disabilities to national development.

Brown, a University of the West Indies graduate with cerebral palsy, was recognised for Leadership Development and has been vocal about critical challenges facing disabled persons.

“Employment [is a major issue],” he said.  “I am a graduate of the University of the West Indies In 2009, 15 years ago.”

He added: “Another one is accessibility because in certain buildings, there is no access, especially for our persons and the wheelchair users.”

Kimberly Puckering, an entrepreneur with a hearing impairment, received the Entrepreneurship Award for her food business, Kim’s Delight, which she launched this year.

She told Barbados TODAY that she has had a passion for cooking since she was eight years old and began cooking for her family.

Roseann Tudor, operations manager of the BCD, emphasised the event’s significance, urging disabled leaders to advocate boldly.  “I urge individuals with disabilities who have risen to leadership positions to boldly use their voices to demand respect, not just for themselves, but for all they represent. The pursuit of this principle has long been at the heart of the BCD’s mission. Recognizing that true inclusion means not only having a seat at a table, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued with the respect it deserves.”

Patricia Padmore-Blackman, BCD president, highlighted the imminent legislative changes: “We salute our government because now we stand on the threshold of another area. We stand on the curve of the policies and the legislative requirements that are being put in place for persons living with disabilities.”

Wayne Nurse, acting director of the National Disabilities Unit, reinforced the government’s commitment, noting they “readily identify with those who would have gained prominence in the Barbadian society, not because of their disability but because of their ability to inspire and empower others”.

Each award was valued at $2 000, with Nurse hinting at an upcoming agricultural programme in collaboration with the National Disabilities Unit.

The event, commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, underscored a growing recognition of disability rights and the potential of individuals to transcend systemic barriers.

louriannegraham@barbadostoday.bb