International Day of Persons with Disabilities — WSIS&SDG TalkX, HOPe Africa Executive Director, Francis John, Advocates for Inclusivity at ITU and WIPO’s IDPD Session

William John TipsNews Europe, London.

Zurich Switzerland, December 14, 2023 — Francis John, Executive at HOPe Africa, actively participated in a session organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to commemorate the 2023 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). The session, titled “WSIS&SDG TalkX,” aimed to highlight the accomplishments and initiatives of women with disabilities in the technology sector.

During the session, Francis John posed critical questions to the panel, focusing on the role of legal and technological solutions in creating an enabling environment for both women and men with disabilities to participate in the creativity and science, technology, and innovation (STI) sector. His insightful queries underscored the importance of fostering inclusivity and accessibility in these fields.

The distinguished panel, moderated by Ms. Ursula Wynhoven, ITU Representative to the United Nations, featured prominent figures such as H.E. Ms. Markova Concepción, Ambassador of Panama to the UN, and experts like Ms. Sulyna Abdullah, Chief of Strategic Planning and Membership Department at ITU, Mr. John Wilmoth OIC Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD), UN DESA, New Yorkamong, Ms. Gamze Sofuoglu Product Manager WeWALK, Türkiye, Ms. Sara Cooper Robotics research scientist Honda Research Institute, Japan, Ms. Annie Carrillo Partner Hear Colors – Accesibilidad Web, Mexico, and Ms. Benedicta Oyewole Community Manager Global Network of Young Persons with Disabilities, Nigeria.

The session served as a platform to showcase existing initiatives supporting the professional advancement of women with disabilities in innovation and technology. It celebrated notable achievements, including those of women entrepreneurs with disabilities, and delved into discussions on specific actions and practices necessary to further support individuals with disabilities in the creativity and STI sphere.

The event looked to bring a gender perspective to the theme.  Despite the substantial growth in innovation and technology, the representation of women, particularly those with disabilities, in leadership positions remains inadequate. This event highlighted the significant contributions of women with disabilities in various roles within the sector and to promote their visibility and influence. By doing so, it aims to challenge stereotypes, foster inclusivity, and create equal opportunities while also giving women the platform to share their perspectives on what it will take to accelerate transformation.

Francis John expressed HOPe Africa’s commitment to creating friendly societies that embrace diversity and inclusivity. The organization looks forward to strengthening partnerships and actively contributing to initiatives that promote equal opportunities for all.

About HOPe Africa: HOPe Africa is dedicated to creating inclusive societies and fostering partnerships that empower individuals with disabilities. The organization actively engages in initiatives that promote diversity, accessibility, and equal opportunities.

Hi Francis John,

Thank you for attending International Day of Persons with Disabilities — WSIS&SDG TalkX. We hope you enjoyed our event.

Please submit your questions or comments to: wsis-info@itu.int.

A recording of the session as well as any documents or presentation will be available on the session page: https://www.itu.int/net4/wsis/forum/2024/Agenda/Session/113

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