Debbie Ward

I am the National Disability Leadership Coordinator. I have lived experience of disability and am committed to seeing disabled people being leaders of their own lives. I grew up in Hastings, the fruit bowl of New Zealand. With the support of family and strong allies I have overcome barriers to have the same rights to education, employment and recreation as other New Zealanders. This has given me a passion to advocate for disabled people to be valued and contributing members of society. Having worked in the disability sector for 30 years, I have a particular interest in seeing diversity and inclusion in workplaces. In my role, I am committed to dispelling the myths and assumptions about disabled people.