Alycia Anderson Blog

Reflecting on Siemens Belonging Day


Published: Wednesday April 17, 2024
belonging day april sixteenth alycia anderson spoke for siemens delivering her getting to the heart of disabling ableism in the workplace keynote

Siemens Belonging Day was a celebration of inclusivity led by Alycia Anderson’s keynote, “Getting to the Heart of Disabling Ableism in the Workplace.” Nichelle Grant’s role in fostering disability inclusion paved the way for this event. Alycia’s return marked a milestone in their partnership, emphasizing the importance of belonging. The collaboration exemplifies commitment to DEI, driving positive change. Belonging Day fostered learning and reflection, reinforcing the transformative impact of inclusivity initiatives.

Episode 42 – Rewriting the Script on Disability | Joci Scott, ‘The Rollettes’ and ‘Disability Film Challenge’ Star


Published: Thursday April 11, 2024
joci scott rewriting the script on disability rollettes and disability film challenge star episode forty two pushing forward with alycia

In Episode 42 of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Joci Scott, an actress and disability advocate, shares her journey from a plane crash to pursuing entertainment, including empowering performances with the Rollettes and roles in groundbreaking films. She discusses the impact of the Rollettes, her advocacy for authentic representation, and her experiences with the Disability Film Challenge. Joci emphasizes the importance of resilience and authenticity in facing challenges.

Episode 42 Transcript


Published: Thursday April 11, 2024
pushing forward with alycia podcast tile logo

In Episode 42 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, meet Joci Scott, an actress and disability advocate. Despite a plane crash causing paralysis, Joci pursued a career in entertainment. From early theater to empowering performances with the Rollettes and roles in groundbreaking films like The Disability Film Challenge, Joci champions authentic disability representation. Highlights include her artistic journey, resilience, the impact of the Rollettes, and her commitment to driving change in entertainment.

Embracing Disability Inclusive Leadership


Published: Thursday April 4, 2024
disabled workers and able bodied workers standing side by side cartoon with heading why is disability inclusive leadership important to your organization

Disability Inclusive Leadership integrates individuals with disabilities into organizations, recognizing their unique abilities and perspectives as valuable assets. Alycia, a wheelchair user, advocates for disability inclusion based on her 25-year corporate career. She recently delivered a workshop on the topic at Blue Shield of California, highlighting the company’s commitment to fostering disability inclusion. Such initiatives promote innovation, brand equity, and better serve the needs of the disabled community while enriching the companies they work for.

Episode 41 – Banking on Change | Joanne Lopez, Financial Literacy Champion


Published: Thursday April 4, 2024
episode forty one of pushing forward with alycia joanne lopez banking on change charting financial success

Joanne Lopez, a financial literacy advocate, shares her journey from Trinidad Tobago to the US, highlighting challenges as a teen immigrant. She found solace in banking, starting as a teller at 19, navigating personal and professional hurdles. Now, as VP of Marketing, she champions financial education, especially for marginalized groups, through partnerships and community initiatives. Her mantra: Live with purpose, impacting lives one kindness at a time. This is Pushing Forward with Alycia.

Episode 41 Transcript


Published: Thursday April 4, 2024
pushing forward with alycia podcast tile logo

In Episode 41 of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Alycia Anderson hosts Joanne Lopez, VP Market Manager and Women in Business Ambassador at Valley Bank. Lopez shares her journey from Trinidad to the US, overcoming adversity and rising in the banking industry. She emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and community education. Lopez’s guiding principle is to perform daily acts of kindness to make a difference. Follow Joanne Lopez for more insights on financial literacy.

Episode 40 – Embracing Every Aspect of Life with Catarina Rivera


Published: Thursday March 28, 2024
embracing every aspect of life with catarina rivera the blindish latina on pushing forward with alycia episode forty

Catarina Rivera, a disabled Latina advocate, shares her journey from acceptance to advocacy in “Pushing Forward with Alycia.” From her personal evolution to her impactful initiatives like Blindish Latina and accessible tourism advocacy, Rivera emphasizes the importance of disability inclusion. She encourages embracing one’s disability journey and emphasizes the significance of accessibility in all aspects of life and travel.

Episode 40 Transcript


Published: Thursday March 28, 2024
pushing forward with alycia podcast tile logo

In “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Episode 40 features Catarina Rivera, a disabled Latina advocate. Rivera’s journey from quiet acceptance to vocal advocacy illuminates the power of community and embracing one’s truth. From teaching in the Bronx to global DEI consultancy, she champions inclusivity. Key highlights include her reflections on disability, NYC’s blind community influence, educational roots, Blindish Latina initiative, and accessible tourism advocacy. Rivera’s message emphasizes acceptance and empowerment in disability narratives.

Alycia Anderson’s Inspirational Journey to Humana Brings Results!


Published: Wednesday March 27, 2024
alycia posing with members of the organizing team in front of an i w d sign with purple balloons

Alycia Anderson’s keynote at Humana’s International Women’s Day event resonated profoundly, embodying values of resilience and inclusivity. The meticulously crafted event, attended by nearly 1,000 associates, showcased Alycia’s message of unity and empowerment. Feedback highlighted its impact, fostering a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. As Humana and Alycia chart the path forward, they aim to create environments where kindness and respect flourish, paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future.

University of Lynchburg Schewel Lecture Series


Published: Tuesday March 26, 2024
alycia on stage at university of lynchburg

Alycia Anderson delivered her keynote speech, “Getting to the Heart of Disabling Ableism,” at the University of Lynchburg’s Schewel Lecture Series on March 20, 2024. The event aims to educate and discuss vital topics. This year focused on disability inclusion and combatting ableism. Anderson expressed gratitude for the opportunity and thanked university officials and mentors for their support.