The Youth Leadership Programme (YLP) involves recruiting 4 young disabled activists to spend a week with an organisation advocating for independent living and the rights of disabled people in another European country for 1 week each. Today, you’ll learn about the story of Mariam who is from Norway and going to Albania.
YLP is co-funded by the European Union (CERV programme) and is part of ENIL’s core work.
My name is Mariam, and I’m 23 years old. I currently live in Norway, where I study community development and cultural studies, while also working at an accessible tourism company in Northern Norway—a role that aligns with my academic pursuits.
At the core of my academic journey, professional work, and volunteer engagements is a common thread: a commitment to inclusivity and the creation of equal opportunities for all. This passion is reflected in my efforts to foster environments where communities and societies can thrive in accessibility. I’m a firm believer in the power of independence, advocating for everyone to have the autonomy to choose if and when they require assistance. While Norway has made strides in this realm, I maintain that we have a considerable distance to traverse and substantial strides to make.
The intrigue for comparative social policy is drawing me to Albania to gain insights into the work of TogetherNow. I’m eager to understand the specific policies they have enacted to empower people with disabilities, and the tangible outcomes of these initiatives, drawing parallels and contrasts with Norwegian policies. Through conversations with stakeholders, I anticipate rich discussions on the shared challenges that our countries face in this domain, exploring the different ways we address them. Where our challenges differ, I look forward to a fruitful exchange of insights and ideas, convinced that such dialogue is a wellspring of innovation and mutual learning.
I’ve got my schedule and my headspace cleared for the week, and I can’t wait to dive into new thoughts, pick up some cool insights, and meet amazing people along the way!
