Progressing Disability Inclusion at RMIT is a panel discussion that invites RMIT staff and students to come together in recognition of Global Accessibility Awareness Day for 2024. We've invited subject matter experts and representatives with lived experience to discuss how we can help progress accessibility in new and universal ways.

Guided by the theme “Built Without Barriers”, an opportunity exists to demystify disability and neurodivergence for the broader community – specifically in terms of how individuals can all contribute to building an inclusive and accessible RMIT – through our systems, facilities, environments and interactions.

Join us in-person at the Job Shop, or online via MS Teams, and be part of the conversation. Everyone is welcome!

Key details

WHEN: Tuesday 21 May - Afternoon tea 2pm, Panel: 2:15 - 3:30pm
WHERE: Join us in-person at RMIT Job Shop - Building 10, Level 4, Room 71
ONLINE: You can also join us online, here: https://teams.microsoft.com/
COST: Free

Panellists

Samuel Coombs, RUSU Disability and Carers' Officer, RMIT Student Union

Samuel Coombs is the 2024 Disability and Carers Representative for the RMIT University Student Union. Studying Community Services, Samuel is a keen advocate for disability rights and is passionate about ensuring RMIT is a place where all students can thrive and reach their full potential. Samuel is also a Project Champion for 'We Belong' an RMIT x RUSU art for social change project focused on exploring accessibility and inclusion.

Dr Kate Anderson, Vice Chancellor’s Senior Research Fellowship, RMIT

Dr Kate Anderson is a Vice Chancellor's Senior Research Fellow at RMIT University, Melbourne. Her research explores how AI and emerging digital technologies can be made more useful, accessible, and inclusive for people with disability. Kate is a fierce advocate for authentic co-design and consumer consultation.

"I’m looking forward to a panel discussion that extends accessibility practice beyond a legal obligation, to explore its value for all learners and teachers. I’m excited to unpack how diversity fortifies our learning communities, and how people with disability at RMIT can confidently share their experiences with fellow learners, teachers, and employers."

Carla Rawlins, Workplace Adjustment Officer, RMIT

Carla Rawlins is a passionate advocate for accessibility and inclusion, particularly for individuals who are neurodivergent or living with rare and undiagnosed diseases (RUD). As a neurodivergent individual herself and a devoted caregiver to a child with a rare disease, Carla's personal experiences have fueled her dedication to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their neurological differences or health conditions, have the opportunity to live fulfilling lives free from physical, attitudinal, and digital barriers.

With over four years of experience in the disability employment sector at Vision Australia, Carla has focussed on promoting and helping implement the concept of organisational adoption of a diversified workforce as hiring staff with disabilities can drive business growth, productivity and nurture a positive work culture.

Recently, Carla transitioned to a new role as a Workplace Adjustments Officer at RMIT University. In this capacity, she continues her mission to promote accessibility and inclusion by ensuring that workplaces are accommodating and supportive environments for all individuals, including those with disabilities.

Carla's work is driven by her belief that everyone deserves equal opportunities and access to resources, regardless of their abilities or health conditions. Through her advocacy, she strives to empower individuals to embrace their uniqueness and to create a more inclusive society for future generations.

Nesceda Blake, Neurodiversity Advocate, Senior Officer, Student Clubs, La Trobe,

Nesceda Blake (she/her) is an AuDHD woman, neurodiversity advocate and arts producer from Melbourne, Australia. She endeavours to create positive change in the world around her by sharing her neurodivergent experiences. She also shares her story with organisations, entrepreneurs and recruiters to spread the word about neuroinclusivity and challenge businesses to rethink how diversity and inclusion practices can achieve actual equity. She currently works as Senior Officer, Student Clubs at La Trobe University, where she supports passionate students to create and grow communities on campus.

Moderator

Dr Ronny Andrade Parra, Digital Accessibility Practice Lead

Dr. Ronny Andrade Parra works as a Digital Accessibility Lead at RMIT University. In his role, he provides guidance on how to make more accessible digital experiences. This advice spans across design, development, and content authoring. Ronny holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the University of Melbourne, Australia. In his PhD research, Ronny investigated ways to make digital games more accessible to people with visual impairment. Ronny is also a member of Zoos Victoria Disability Inclusion Advisory Committee.