Is Everybody Here?

We speak with Ali France MP, Member for Dickson. In this episode, we explore the transformative power of sport and community involvement for people with disabilities, the challenges and opportunities within the NDIS system, and the importance of listening to disabled voices in policy reform.
 
The podcast highlighted how crucial community support is for individuals with disabilities. Being surrounded by people facing similar challenges creates a sense of belonging and understanding. This environment fosters open discussions about shared experiences, leading to better coping strategies and increased confidence. For instance, one participant shared how participating in sports helped them gain confidence and ultimately influenced their decision to enter politics. They stated, "It really changed my world. I don't think I would have ended up in politics had it not gone through that experience."Want to know more about the proposed NDIS bill? https://everyaustraliancounts.com.au https://pwd.org.au/disability-rights/stopndiscuts/
Want to tell the decision makers what YOU think about the proposed cuts? https://eac.good.do/stopfixprotect/email-decision-makers/
Want to join the National Day of Action on Saturday, 1st of August?
https://linktr.ee/protectourndis
#DisabilityPride #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs #AliFrance #DisabilityAdvocacy #Empowerment

In this episode of the podcast, host Angie Keegan speaks with Sam Samuel McDonald, a support worker and photographer, about his experiences living with disabilities, his work in the community, and his passion for photography. They discuss the importance of social inclusion, the challenges faced by people with disabilities, and the significance of lived experience in training support workers. Sam also shares his journey of writing a book about his life and the impact he hopes it will have on others. The conversation highlights the need for better accessibility and support within the community.
takeaways
The podcast is created by and for people with disabilities.
Sam works as a support worker and peer supporter.
Social Role Valorization emphasizes the rights of people with disabilities.
Training for support workers includes understanding the needs of individuals with disabilities.
Lived experience is crucial in training support workers.
Sam is passionate about photography and environmental protection.
Traveling for photography has been a significant part of Sam's life.
Sam's childhood involved moving around Queensland due to his father's job.
Health challenges, including open heart surgery, shaped Sam's early life.
Sam is writing a book to inspire others with disabilities.
Help Sam reach his target to publish his book “Learning to Grow” - https://gofund.me/22df2556
 
See Sam’s awesome photographer here, you can also purchase prints! - https://samuelmacdonaldphotography.mypixieset.com/
 
 Follow Sam’s work here: https://www.instagram.com/samuelmacdonaldphotography/
 
Lagoon Creek Cafe: https://bettertogether.net.au/ccwc/lagoon-creek-cafe-function-room/
 
The course Sam mentioned: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1120147879669676&id=100050234233308&set=a.600975384920264&locale=is_IS ← no cost training for Australian citizens. 
 
To qualify for the program a participant must be unemployed or working up to 25 hours per week.
Our next night class will start the 20th of October and will run a Monday Tuesday and Wednesday from 4.30pm- 8pm. The whole course runs for 21 weeks however 3 of those weeks will include your 120 hours of placement in industry ( which we do support with)
It also includes approximately $1500 worth of added value training with things like First aid and CPR, mental health First aid, epilepsy training, diabetes training etc etc .
For further information please call Jenny on 0404020517.
 
Lagoon Creek Cafe: https://bettertogether.net.au/ccwc/lagoon-creek-cafe-function-room/

In this episode, host Angie Keegan talks with Grace Alexander, a young musician with disabilities, and her mother, Sam. They discuss Grace's journey, the role of community support, and the importance of inclusion. Grace shares how music has helped her grow and perform confidently. The episode ends with her performing her new song, “No Fairy Tale,” and highlights the need for more inclusive programs and resources for people with disabilities.

In this episode, host Angie Keegan and guest Janine share their experiences at Ability Fest, a music festival designed for people with disabilities. They discuss accessibility features, transport, amenities, entertainment, and the inclusive vibe. Using assistive devices like A-Linkers, they navigate challenges and offer feedback on improvements. The conversation highlights the importance of inclusivity and excitement for future events.

In this episode, Angie Keegan talks to nurse and advocate Wendy McCracken about the challenges people with disabilities face in healthcare. They cover the importance of assistive animals, support workers in hospitals, and the need for better advocacy and accessibility. Wendy discusses navigating hospital policies and highlights the significance of communication and understanding in improving healthcare for individuals with disabilities.

In this podcast episode, Angie Keegan talks to Belinda, a disability support worker and advocate, about the challenges young people with disabilities face in Moreton Bay. They discuss the need for better support systems, community engagement, and accessibility in urban planning. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing individuals beyond their economic contributions and calls for a more inclusive society that addresses the diverse needs of people with disabilities.

Episode 1: Those Victorians! (The era, not the state) with Cheryl Walsh. Join Cheryl, a local history enthusiast, and Angie for a lively discussion on the origins of 'disability.' They explore how the Victorians and the Industrial Revolution shaped today's access issues and societal attitudes.
It’s an engaging conversation—let us know your thoughts in the comments or visit www.iseverybodyhere.org. 

Hello! Finally we have our first episode up!
I want to give a special shout out to Mario, who has been invaluable in making this podcast happen. Thank you!
Thanks for being here xAnge www.iseverybodyhere.org  

Hello! Welcome to our podcast; Is Everybody Here? This is a podcast for people with disabilities, made by people with disabilities in the Caboolture Area and surrounding Moreton Bay Area. 
We want to hear from you so come along and visit us at our website: www.iseverybodyhere.org where you can send us a message, subscribe to keep up with the latest news and happenings and you can also follow us on all the social media platforms :D