Imagine having to live with a disability and still face the extra burden of proving yourself even when it is not necessary to do so. Achieving academic success for a blind student studying in Nigeria is no mean feat. It takes sheer determination and some very high level of personal motivation to come out victorious. What with both physical and attitudinal barriers all seemingly conspiring to discourage you. Acquiring education should not be made to be this difficult. Clearly, we live in a society that is not built for persons with disabilities. However, with the right kind of approach and attitude, live can be made so much easier. Remember, we are all just an incident away from a disability. Do not say “God forbid, it is not my portion!” If it hasn’t reached you, it hasn’t passed you by. Click the link. as Ademola Adeleke shares with us among other things, his experience while studying at UNN and triumphing despite the odds.

You can connect with Ademola by sending him a message on facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/see.demmy

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In this episode of The Eclectic, we hear from Angela Omale, the founder of Fight Against Rape (FAR) Initiative who shares with us a horrible experience that gave birth to her passion for ending violence against women and girls. Click the link, listen as she talks about her work with FAR Initiative and how persons with disabilities can be included in the fight.

You can connect with Angela by following FAR Initiative’s facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/share/L1ygpEBXr8sYQzwa/?mibextid=LQQJ4d to see some of their amazing work!

Send us a mail also to [email protected] and follow The Eclectic on facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063709292433 and join the growing community of people who are making life-changing discoveries!

Hi guys! In this episode of The Eclectic, we get to meet Asadullah, a blind young man who shares his experience with blindness and how it shaped him into the man he is today. Asadullah talks about his challenges and the choices he has had to make. Click the link. as he also shares with us the story of how he found love and is happily married with a child. Join the conversation and share your thoughts. Don’t forget to comment, like, and share!

This week on The Eclectic, we embark on a remarkable journey of vision and will with Dolapo Agbede, a Disability Inclusion Advisor with the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, and the Founder of Wilway paradigm services, leading Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Africa. Dolapo's story isn't just about overcoming personal challenges; it's about harnessing them to spark transformative change. So guys, buckle up as we explore her remarkable journey from navigating vision loss to spearheading inclusive solutions for underserved communities across the continent.

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This week, we feature a guest who exemplifies resilience and the power of advocacy. Dr. Chike Okogwu, founder of the Centre for Ability, Rehabilitation, and Empowerment (CARE), joins us to discuss his inspiring journey fighting for accessible aviation in Nigeria. Dr. Chike's fight for equality is a powerful example of how one person's determination can create positive change. We'll discuss the impact of these changes and what the future holds for people with disabilities in Nigeria.

The struggle for equality is never truly over. Dr. Chike's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and collective action. We'll discuss what Dr. Chike sees as the next steps in achieving true accessibility for everyone. Dr. Chike's story is an inspiration, but the struggle for inclusion continues. We'll ask our listeners: What can we do in our own communities to advocate for equal rights for people with disabilities?

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This week, we had a chat with Faith Ozioma Osemeke, a psychospiritual couples and relationship therapist who acquired a visual impairment while studying maths and statistics in the university. Following her impairment, Ozioma had to change her course of study where she found fulfilment in psychology. Today, Ozioma is the CEO of Arts and Acts of Love (ARAL), a counselling unit that specialises in psychospiritual therapy for couples, focusing on self-development and applying Bible-based theory where it aligns with science as her tool for therapy. On this episode, Ozioma talks about the reason she does not identify as a person with disability, and how she is able to provide counselling services to her cliants effectively and efficiently even as a person with a visual challenge. Explaining her views on impairment versus challenge, Ozioma believes that your interpretation of a situation determines how you respond to it. Click the link and listen to this fascinating conversation with Ozioma.

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Welcome back to The Eclectic, and a very special Happy International Women's Day! This week, we celebrate the theme "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress," focusing on empowering women and girls, especially those facing additional challenges due to disabilities. We are honoured to have Dr. Tristaca McCray, the visionary CEO and Founder of NERDS RULE INC., an organization dedicated to empowering underserved communities. Dr. McCray's work goes beyond the ordinary, particularly in her focus on mental health awareness and support for women and girls with disabilities. Join us as we delve into:

• Dr. McCray's journey: Discussing her personal inspiration and the driving force behind her dedication to empowering women and girls with disabilities.

• Mental health and disability: Underscore the specific challenges and needs of women and girls with disabilities regarding mental health and well-being.

• Breaking down barriers: Exploring successful initiatives and programs implemented by NERDS RULE INC. to address these challenges and empower women and girls with disabilities.

• Investing in progress: Discussing the theme of International Women's Day and how investing in women and girls with disabilities contributes to social and economic progress.

You can connect with Dr. McCray by sending a mail to [email protected]

Send us a mail also to [email protected] and follow The Eclectic on facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063709292433 and join the growing community of people who are making life-changing discoveries!

Today on the Eclectic, we get to meet Daniella Ibikiri. Daniella's journey is one of remarkable courage and adaptation. A graduate from Niger Delta University (Amassoma) with a degree in computer science, she lost her sight just a few months after welcoming her first child. Yet, instead of succumbing to limitations, Daniella embraced her new reality with unwavering determination. She honed her skills, and blossomed into a loving wife, a devoted mother, and an inspiration to countless others. Our conversation with Daniella will delve into the depths of her experiences, exploring how she navigates daily life with grace and humour. We'll hear about the challenges she faced with suicide, the triumphs she achieved, and the unwavering support system that helped her redefine what it means to thrive. We'll also delve into her YouTube channel, "Living Beyond Limitations with Daniella Ibikiri," where she shares her perspective, offers practical tips, and champions the power of resilience.

You can connect with Daniella by subscribing to her YouTube channel @ https://youtu.be/xYIPr1jxQ50?si=BPjLtc-vOFMCsIBJ to follow her story!

Send us a mail also to [email protected] and follow The Eclectic on facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063709292433 and join the growing community of people who are making life-changing discoveries!

Today, we have the privilege of meeting Olufemi S.A. Bayode, a Special Learning Needs Consultant who challenges perceptions and inspires action. While many are fascinated by his ability to navigate life as a visually impaired husband, father, and active professional, Olufemi goes beyond mere inspiration. He's here to share his lived experience, debunk misconceptions, and advocate for a more inclusive world. Join us as we delve into:

• Olufemi's journey: How did he overcome societal expectations and build a fulfilling life despite visual impairment?

• Embracing disability: What are the challenges and triumphs of navigating everyday life with a disability?

• Expertise in assistive technology: How does Olufemi utilize computer technology to enhance his independence and productivity?

• Championing inclusion: What are Olufemi's perspectives on disability rights, accessibility, and fostering an inclusive society?

You can connect with Olufemi by sending a mail to [email protected] or visit his website @ https://slnconline.com.ng/ to access his collection of resource materials!

Send us a mail also to [email protected] and follow The Eclectic on facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063709292433 and join the growing community of people who are making life-changing discoveries!

Today, we're venturing into the world of art and advocacy with Mark Stoddart, a Scottish sculptor whose bronze masterpieces and bespoke furniture have captivated audiences worldwide. But Mark's story is about more than just artistic brilliance. It's a testament to overcoming challenges, embracing neurodiversity, and using one's voice to empower others.

Mark's journey began with dyslexia, a learning difference that presented unique hurdles in his early years. Yet, instead of succumbing to limitations, Mark found his expression through art, crafting sculptures that breathe life into bronze and tell stories with every curve and form. His passion for creation wasn't confined to the studio, though. Mark became a passionate advocate for dyslexia awareness, serving as an Ambassador and Board Member for RereGem Talent School and Dyslexia Kenya Organization. His book “Making a Mark Discovering the Power of Neurodiversity on a Learning Safari” is a true reflection of the kind of world we live in.

You can connect with Mark by sending a mail to [email protected] or visit his website @ https://www.markstoddart.com/ to experience his captivating artwork!

Send us a mail also to [email protected] and follow The Eclectic on facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063709292433 and join the growing community of people who are making life-changing discoveries!