Nancys journey from advocacy to leadership 

Stories | June 6, 2025

When given the right support and opportunities, people with disabilities can not only meet but exceed expectations. This was the case for Nancy, a woman with a physical disability in the Philippines.  
For most of her life, Nancy faced challenges due to societal barriers and lack of opportunities for people with disabilities in her community. This changed when she became involved in a CBM supported project working with a local partner to promote inclusivity and empower individuals with disabilities. Nancy saw this as an opportunity to create change and contribute meaningfully to society. 
Through the project, Nancy started advocating for the rights of people with disabilities and highlighting their needs and the importance of their inclusion in all aspects of community life. For Nancy, this wasn’t just another advocacy group; it was a catalyst. The project offered something she hadn’t realised she needed: training. Not just in disability awareness, but also in leadership, policy, and strategic communication. Through this training, Nancy learned to dissect complex legislation, to build coalitions, to negotiate effectively, and to articulate her vision with clarity and power. The workshops weren’t sterile lectures; they were vibrant discussions, fuelled by shared experiences and a collective desire for change.  
The project’s inclusive approach was transformative. It wasn’t about ‘fixing’ people with disabilities; it was about empowering them. The project team recognised the inherent strengths of people with disabilities and provided the tools to amplify their voices.  
The confidence Nancy gained was immeasurable, and the culmination of this journey was her appointment as Person with Disability Affairs Officer. To Nancy, this is more than a job, it is validation. A recognition of the potential within her, unlocked by the project’s unwavering belief in her capabilities. Now, she is shaping policy, influencing decisions, and directly impacting the lives of countless individuals. The weight in her hands now is the weight of responsibility, but it’s a weight she carries with pride and purpose.  
 
CBM Australia acknowledges the support of the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP). 

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