Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed a range of engaging activities, including interactive disability-awareness experiences and creative art corners. Students had the opportunity to meet representatives from Career Readiness, Disability Services, New Venture Institute, Medibank, and other stakeholders committed to fostering inclusive practices.

One of the highlights was the Employer and Graduate Panel, where participants heard inspiring success stories and gained insights into inclusive workplace strategies from employer representatives from SKOOT Community Access, Goodwill Procare, and BDO. The panel also showcased the University Specialist Employment Partnership (USEP) program, led by Sascha, Flinders’ Disability Career Consultant, designed to support students with disabilities in achieving their career goals.

Adding to the atmosphere were live performances by Thomas Aquino, a PhD candidate and former Australia Awardee, whose music brought sweet energy and joy to the event. To top it all off, attendees enjoyed a complimentary lunch while networking with peers and professionals.

Florence Mudzingwa, a Master of Disability Practice and Leadership student, shared her reflections on the day via social media:

Yesterday, on International Day of People with Disability, we celebrated the unique perspective, resilience, and innovation our community brings to every table. Our theme was “Be Fearless, Be Me” – my disability is part of my fearless, authentic self. This is one of the ethos of Flinders University of being student-centred, and their commitment to providing an environment where students with a disability are valued, supported, and encouraged by creating residential communities that are welcoming, inclusive, and accessible. It makes it possible for one to be fully independent – not as an afterthought, but as the blueprint for a more creative, accessible, and fearless world.

The theme was in line with my current studies in the Master of Disability Practice and Leadership, where valuing the voice, designing with us, and removing barriers to participation is of paramount importance in building an inclusive society. Part of our celebrations included:

⭐ Listening to a panel of employers and graduates about their success stories and inclusive practices ⭐ Insights into the University Specialist Employment Partnership (USEP) program ⭐ Engaging disability awareness activities and interactive simulation experiences ⭐ Meeting and greeting with the Career Readiness team, Disability Services, New Venture Institute, and other key stakeholders

I am sure everyone who attended left with one key takeaway, as all learnt the need to work together to make society fairer and respect the rights of people with disability. Grateful to the International Student Services (ISS), Australia Awards at Flinders University, Flinders University Students with Disabilities Association (FUSDA), and the Career Readiness team for the opportunity to be part of the inclusive celebrations.

#IDPWD2025 #InclusionMatters #Accessibility #disabilityawareness

Inclusive Celebration Day was more than an event – it was a statement of commitment to creating a campus where everyone feels valued and empowered. By embracing diversity and promoting accessibility, Flinders University continues to lead the way in building a more inclusive future for all.