Empowering Young Leaders in Disability - Northam

“Nothing About Us, Without Us!”

Empowering Young Leaders in Disability (EYLD) is a ground-breaking initiative designed for young people with disabilities (YPwD) aged 12-25 living in regional Western Australia.

Our unique program offers face-to-face workshops led by peers with lived experience of disability, focusing on four key elements: self-advocacy, employment skills, sharing lived experience, and leadership development.

Through EYLD, participants will:

• Build resilience through self-advocacy skills
• Learn how to share your story safely
• Grow as a public speaker
• Gain confidence navigating employment
• Explore the impacts of historical disabled culture on modern day
• Learn how to navigate community systems and participate in decision-making processes
• Foster leadership skills and self-care through an intersectional lens.

Accommodations we offer:

At YDAN, we are committed to providing an inclusive environment for all participants. A base-line level of accommodations has been installed into the structure of the workshops.

There will be:

• Fidget toys and sensory tools,
• Noise-cancelling headphones,
• Built-in breaks during workshops,
• Summary of what you’ve learned to take home,
• ACROD parking,
• Wheel-chair accessible venue and toilets,
• Quiet activities to do while you listen,
• Event reminders leading up to the workshop.

Below is a list of common accommodations that YPwD often request. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and we ask you to tell us your own unique access needs in the Expression of Interest form.

Common accommodations include:

• Adjustable lighting options (e.g., brighter for visibility or dimmer for low-sensory),
• Option to bring a support person,
• Navigational assistance within the venue,
• Access to a dedicated sensory space for breaks,
• Materials in accessible formats (e.g., large print, digital, braille),
• Sign language interpreters (please request in advance),
• Visual descriptions of speakers,
• Flexible seating arrangements.

What to Expect

The workshops are designed to be peer-led, fostering discussions and activities that emphasise respect and kindness.The workshop is expected to run for 4 hours, with regular short and long breaks incorporated into the structure.

YDAN recognises that active listening takes various forms. We strongly encourage participants to bring activities that help them focus, such as knitting or quiet mobile games. Active listening is encouraged but not mandatory, if you need to take a break or disengage, feel free to do so.

Light refreshments with coffee and tea will be provided. You are welcome to get up and down at any point in the workshop for snacks and drinks. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know in the Expression of Interest form so we can accommodate your needs.