We’ve just welcomed our new European Solidarity Corps (ESC) volunteer. Is name is Michael Brennan and he will be working with us in our office for six months. Here is an introduction to Michael and what he would like to gain from this experience with us:
“Hello! My name is Michael, and I will be volunteering at ENIL for the next six months. I come from Ireland where I recently finished a bachelor’s degree in history and theology.
After finishing my studies I wanted to do something positive for society and develop my skills and knowledge along the way. Coming from a deaf family, and being partially deaf myself, I have always been passionate about disability rights. While looking for an opportunity to further my interest in the disability movement I found the position at ENIL and thought that it was a perfect fit.
I have previously completed work experience with Deaf Sports Ireland, an organisation that aims to promote opportunities for deaf individuals to participate in sports at all levels. I have also worked with the Deaf Heritage Centre, which seeks to celebrate the history and culture of the Irish deaf community.
I am new to the independent living movement. I am excited to learn more about it and how its principles are being implemented at the European level—and most importantly, what we, as a movement, can do to hasten this process.
I hope that during my time here I can contribute, in whatever small way I can, to further the cause of independent living and I believe that the knowledge I will gain during my internship will set me up for lifelong activism on behalf of disabled people everywhere.
In my spare time I enjoy playing football and reading (mainly non-fiction) books.”
