The panel will feature guest speakers who will share insights into their careers, their lived experiences of disability and how this has shaped their professional journeys. The aim of the event is to inspire students and provide greater understanding of the wide range of career paths available to disabled individuals. We are excited to be joined by:
David Bedford: Dave is a lived-experience Neurodiversity & Inclusion speaker with 25+ years in software testing, and has founded his own company AuDHD Unzipped- providing insight and support to companies in building inclusive workplaces and retaining Neurodivergent staff.
Joanna Oliver: Following her own journey with chronic illness, Joanna has dedicated years to advocacy, education and driving systemic change. She delivers talks free of charge across the world, on topics such as Employment, HR and the social barriers faced by people living with chronic illness.
Izzy Watkins: A Surrey Alumni and VP Community from 2020-21, Izzy is a Training Lead with Mental Health First Aid England and Disability Consultant advising organisations on good practice and inclusive policies to best support employees with disabilities.
Libby Taylor: Libby is a University of Surrey alumni and currently works as a Corporate Partnerships Executive at Carers UK. She has been involved with advocacy and fundraising for multiple years, bringing awareness to charities like Maggies Centres, Compton Care and the NSPCC.
Julia Sienko: Julia is a final year student and part time Support Zone officer who is actively involved in student representation and advocacy. With extensive experience across the HR profession and the charity sector, she has provided advice to the University as an Access & Participation Student Advisor, worked in the community as a Scope volunteer and even co-founded and co-hosted the Ramped Up Podcast, exploring lived experiences as a wheelchair user and bringing attention to disability awareness and inclusion. Julia is the organiser and the host of this event.
Whether you are looking for advice, support or just interested to find out more- we hope to see you there.
Please note- Recording and transcript of this session will be available following the event.
This event has been organised and hosted by current student and Support Zone officer Julia Sienko, with support from the Support Zone and the Student Equality Network.