Member stories
We’re profiling the experiences of our members.
We’re focused on amplifying the voices of our members, helping them share their experiences of living with disability and being part of PWDA and the disability rights movement.
If you want to share your stories, please contact us.
- “In 2026, we need to change this culture”: InFocus with Nathan
PWDA’s member Nathan as part of the InFocus: Queer and Disabled campaign shared a video story while at Mardi Gras 2026. - How losing sight at 14 led to a life of advocacyPWDA Member Dan Stubbs is Victoria’s Public Advocate shared his story on the When I Was Young podcast of how losing sight at 14 led to a life of advocacy.
- Fully accessible design does not exist. We can do betterPWDA member blog looks at the term “fully accessible” and why such a concept is difficult to achieve.
- In praise of my wheelchair this International Wheelchair DayFor International Wheelchair Day celebrated on 1 March, PWDA member, Laura Pettenuzzo shares her experience as a wheelchair user and her gratitude to ‘Maria Lucia’.
- “Double the pride. Double the fun”: InFocus with FinnPWDA’s member Finn O’Keefe shares their story about life as a queer person with disability, often feeling doubly on the outer as part of the InFocus: Queer and Disabled campaign
- “Pansexual, this is perfect”: InFocus with Rory KeyesPWDA’s member Rory Keyes shares their story of marching with PWDA at Mardi Gras as part of the InFocus: Queer and Disabled campaign
- “When we’re united, we raise the standard of what this country believes is fair, possible, and just”On Thursday 13 November at the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM), PWDA member Emma Bennison MBA GAICD delivered a moving address to members.
- Member Blog: Seeing the Disability Pride Flag Fly in Victoria for the First TimeCheck out this awesome blog by PWDA member Shannon Meilak about speaking at the historic moment of the first-ever Disability Pride flag raising in Victoria.
- Member Blog – Why Disability Pride Fest 2025 might be the best event you attend this yearCheck out this awesome PWDA member blog post by PWDA member Jane Scott abut the Sydney-based Disability Pride Festival 2025
- Member Blog Post – When ‘Accessible’ Isn’t Enough: The Gaps in Event InclusionCheck out this awesome PWDA member blog post by Shannon Meilak! Shannon is a talented, disabled, and neurodivergent creative who’s passionate about advocacy, accessibility, and sharing real stories. In this piece, she dives into how “accessible” isn’t always enough when it comes to making events truly inclusive. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in creating more welcoming spaces!
- Member Blog Post – Mr River NightToday we introduce you to one of our members, Mr River Night. River is a proud father, husband, carer, professional, advocate and adult living with disability. We recently asked River a few questions about his life, advocacy work and why he became a PWDA member.
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