Join us as we explore the world of Deafblindness. Our guest this week, Hannah McPierzie, is the Chairperson of Deafblind West Australians (DBWA). She gives us an insight into the great work DBWA is doing and how they support their community. Hannah also shares a little of her own personal story, which led her to be in a leadership role with this organisation.

DBWA has developed a new leadership program for people aged 18-35, and we learn all about this fantastic initiative.

DBWA provides support for West Australians who are Deafblind. Find out more on their website.

Find out more about DBWA's Young Leaders program here on their website. This program was developed for anyone living with sensory loss, who is Deafblind, Deaf, Hard of Hearing, blind or has low vision, and who has initiative and drive.

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Patrick Gunasekera is a creator, performer and producer working across theatre, dance, music and writing. His art is driven by a heartfelt interest in change. The stories he creates often explore how systems of oppression are normalised by everyday people and what agency and power looks like from a marginalised perspective.

This interview profiles Patrick and his approach to his work as well as highlights the show he will premiere in November – a ballet adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s short story The Little Mermaid, from a queer, brown, disabled point of view.

To find out more about the show and to purchase tickets, go to The Blue Room Theatre website.

Support this project's independent fundraiser here.

Search for 'Patrick Gunasekera' on Humanitix to find more of the events he's offering.

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This week Simon and Abby speak to Melanie Hawkes - writer, advocate, and West Australian Director for Physical Disability Australia. Melanie is also a member of the Society of Women Writers WA and recent winner of the prestigious Jennifer Burbidge Short Story Award.

A strong advocate and bold communicator, Melanie shares her passion for self-exploration and creativity in a fun, engaging conversation.

You can read Melanie's award-winning story here.

Find out more about the Society of Women Writers WA and their upcoming events on their website.

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In this episode, we speak with Maddison Malins, a Year 12 student and Vision Australia Radio volunteer.

Blind since age 11, Maddie is studying media and building skills in radio and podcasting.

She talks about her path so far; including her involvement in the show "Happy Pants," her passion for music, and plans for life after school. A thoughtful profile of a young storyteller making her mark.

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This week, Simon chats to William Morgan, who's passionate about singing and sound production. Williams sings int he Perth pride Choir and the Humdrum Choir, which he also helps organise. William is a caring, vibrant member of the Perth disability community and in this uplifting discussion he shares openly about all that music and the choir communities bring to his life.

Find out more about the Perth Pride Choir including their upcoming performances on their website.

Find out more about the Humdrum Choir on their Facebook page.

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This week Simon and Andrew take a moment to reflect by revisiting past conversations with four different guests who struck a chord with Simon for their leadership and advocacy work.

You'll hear from Nihal Iscel, WA Women’s Hall of Fame inductee for her advocacy work, about how she strives to bring people together to create community, and how resilience is an essential ingredient in becoming a leader yourself.

Linda de Rozario shares her personal experiences within the Deaf community and with Auslan, offering insightful reflections on the importance of connection, accessibility, and equality.

Lisa Burnette speaks about her experience with volunteering and all it's brought to her life and the lives of others, and shares her story of becoming a double amputee at 24 as a result of Meningococcal septicaemia. Lisa is the author of the book Learning to Walk, which you can find out more about here: lisaburnette.com.au

Finally, you'll hear from Ben Rowe, Executive Officer at Blind Sports WA and big advocate for building inclusion in the community. Ben played Goalball for Australia. Find out more about the work of Blind Sports WA here: blindsportswa.com.au

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When it comes to digital accessibility, this week's guest is both passionate and knowledgeable. Dr Scott Hollier is the CEO and co-founder of Centre For Accessibility Australia (CFAA), and chatted to Simon about what's new and emerging in the technology spaces that can be of assistance to people with a disability.

CFAA is calling for nominations for the Australian Access Awards, which celebrate organisations and individuals demonstrating outstanding commitment to digital accessibility - recognising excellence across websites, applications, and advocacy initiatives. Categories span a wide range of sectors, including government, education, corporate, and not-for-profit.

To nominate an organisation or an individual, you can complete the form here on the CFAA website.

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Meet Maxine Drake: a powerful voice for inclusion and human rights.

As an advocate with Developmental Disability WA, Maxine stands up for students with disabilities and brings passion, heart, and action to the disability movement.

In this thought-provoking chat, Simon and Maxine explore advocacy, pride, dignity, and what it really takes to create an accessible world where everyone belongs. Acknowledging that sometimes activism is needed to make change happen; social change is easier when we bring people together and are there beside them.

Find out more about the work of Developmental Disability WA by visiting their website: ddwa.org.au

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