I feel that people usually reject or treat people with disability differently due to their difference. They tend to excluded them from their own social circle and often find it hard to interact with people with disability. It might be due to their uncertainties or they have no idea how to approach them. They also have a mindset that they are weak and vulnerable. While they have such prejudice against them, I beg to differ. I think that they are much stronger, maybe not physically but definitely emotionally as they have been through more difficult periods than most people. They were able to walk through those tough times and regain their confidence which is something that is not easy at all. Besides, they usually spend more time doing something most people can complete within a short amount of time. Hence, their determination is something that we can all learn from.
As for inclusion, I find that it’s really important for people be feel included into a group and have a sense of belonging. Also, people want to be treated normally as the rest, including the people with disability. Hence, I feel that inclusion programmes can help people with disability better than integration programmes.
The training by AWWA has definitely helped me in many ways. It has prepared me to deal with people with disability better as I’m now more aware of the different conditions and disabilities, aids they use and how I can contribute and help them better. My experience with the clients from AWWA was really good and I found it very meaningful and fulfilling. New friendships were formed along the way too. Furthermore, I feel that the clients were very inspiring, as they were very strong, confident and positive about life despite of their disabilities. This interaction with them is definitely a new experience for me and I’m really glad they enjoyed the session with us! :)