I bring a practical and grounded perspective to disability awareness and inclusion. My approach has been shaped by lived experience of spinal cord injury, years of working with people and organisations, and both good and difficult experiences of how inclusion can play out in the real world.

I have never really seen myself as an advocate. I see myself more as someone who shares a perspective that may help others shift theirs, without judgement. The aim is not to tell people what they are doing wrong, but to help them recognise what they may already be doing well, and where certain assumptions might still be influencing behaviour.

My background includes psychological science, sociology, mental health, alcohol and other drugs, along with experience in public speaking, group facilitation, peer mentoring, community engagement and research engagement. I have also been involved in advising government and reviewing policy, particularly where inclusion, community experience and practical participation matter.

A large part of my work has involved helping identify and involve consumers in meaningful ways, while also trying to make complex ideas easier to understand outside formal systems. I have facilitated sessions with young people about risk-taking behaviour and its consequences, using honest conversation rather than fear or judgement.

The Assumption Exchange comes from trying to see disability, inclusion and human behaviour from as many angles as possible. At its centre is a simple belief: many people already have the right intentions. Sometimes they just need space to test their assumptions.

If you would like to know more, please feel free to reach out.