In this episode I'm joined by Laura North from Wonderboy Trust who shares her incredible story of life, loss, love and legacy.

She shares how the NAPA (Neurological and Physical Abilitation) paediatric therapy clinic in Sydney has impacted her whānua's lives and how she's been instrumental in bringing this support to Wellington.

This episode touches on child loss. Please take care when listening.

For more information on NAPA: NAPA Centre Australia I World-Renowned Paediatric TherapyWonderboy Trust:

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This is Kylee and she does all the things. Creator and boss lady of Kylee and Co and Clipboard. She also facilitates social activities and a change for disabled people to get together through Waikato accessibility and runs a collective for disabled business owners across the motu.

What an incredible human, who has been doing so many great things to make this world more accessible for disabled people. She has a lot of inspirational things to say and talks passionately about her wonderful 'crew' who help to make it all possible.

Kylee and Co – Kylee & CoAbout – Clipboard

This is such an insightful kōrero with Nikita Van Dijk one of the co presidents of the National Disabled Students Association. Along with this role, Nikita is a fierce advocate for inclusive education which is so evident in this conversation.

In this episode we hear from Adam Bazzard, the owner of Sensory Sam. He shares the story behind why he started the company and what they are doing in the world of all things sensory products.

In this episode of the Pathmakers series, I speak with Erika Butters from Volition about all things supported decision-making. Volition is a social enterprise creating smart and simple technology to empower disabled people as decision makers in their own lives.

Erika has been busy creating a shiny new app she refers to as a preference bank. It's designed to store information about people's preferences and choices, assisting in effective supported decision-making.

This is such an exciting innovation and a must listen if you have any whānau with a disability.

You can download the app from the website (it's not in the app or play store as it's designed for any device)

Volition | a tool for supported decision making

In this first episode of the new 'Pathmakers' series, I interview Chanelle Moriah, the award-winning author of 'I am Autistic' and 'This is ADHD'. She also works for Autism NZ in research and advocacy.

We talk about what it was like to get her diagnosis, how she has been able to overcome mental health challenges and what it was like to publish her books.

The 'Pathmakers' series focuses on people who are paving the way within the disability sector in areas such as innovation, advocacy, support services and more. Most will have lived experience of disability or extensive experience in the sector.

In this bonus episode, created for Youth Broadcasting Week, we hear from three young people who have a sibling with a disability.

Firstly, Meredith's son Emerson does a 'takeover' and interviews her. Then in the second half of the show we hear a fun and insightful kōrero with Cassia and Jentzen, two young people who have a sister with an intellectual disability, autism, adhd and epilepsy.

Talia joined me over zoom from Christchurch to share her story about what life has been life raising a child who developed epilepsy from an early age. Now 15, her daughter has been diagnosed with autism, intellectual disability and ADHD.

We talk about the journey from the medical world to disability and then mental health.

This a raw conversation of what it feels like to be a Mum of a child with complex needs and I'm grateful for Talia's vulnerability in sharing it with us.

In this epsiode I speak to another Wellington Mum, Judith who has a daughter in her 30's with an intellectual disability. It was really interesting to hear her reflect on what life was like initially and how she has adapted and changed with her daughter's needs.

We touch on Enabling Good Lives in this episode and if you would like to know more visit the website: The approach of Enabling Good Lives

This episode features my colleague Sophie one of the Canterbury coordinators at Parent to Parent.

The love and passion for her kids and others is so evident in our kōrero and I’m excited to share her story of fostering a couple of wonderful autistic boys. We may need a part 2, there’s so much more to say!

Here is the link to the give a little page she mentions https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/respite-van-fundraiser

Before the interview I read out a speech from the recent Autism NZ breakfast at parliament celebrating world autism awareness and acceptance day. The speech is from Joanne Dacombe, Autism NZ board member, researcher and advocate. It was so moving I had to share it with you. Thanks @joannedacombe for your willingness to share this with us.

Check out the awesome designs for this years 'Hoods Up Campaign' from Autism NZOur Hoodie Designs - Autism NZ

Sophie mention's using the sunflower lanyard on her travels. You can find out more here: Hidden disabilities sunflower scheme | aviation.govt.nz