Reading the PopSize UK article, “Alycia Anderson: Turning Challenges into Empowerment and Inclusion,” fills me with immense pride and excitement. Seeing my story and mission featured on an international platform is not just a personal milestone, I humbly see it as a significant step forward for disability inclusion worldwide.
Growing up with Sacral Agenesis and using a wheelchair since birth, I often found myself in environments lacking representation. The ’80s and ’90s offered few, if any, role models who looked like me or shared similar experiences. This absence compelled me to become the role model I needed. Losing my mother to leukemia at a young age was a profound challenge, but my twin sister and father’s unwavering support instilled in me a resilience that has carried me through life’s hurdles.
The article captures my journey from seeking to fit into societal molds to embracing my identity and advocating for others. It highlights how I transformed personal challenges into a mission of empowerment, using my voice to advocate for over a billion people globally living with disabilities. The shift from internal acceptance to external advocacy wasn’t instantaneous; it was a gradual process of owning my story and recognizing the strength within it.
One of the most touching aspects of my work is the personal connections formed after speaking engagements. When individuals approach me, often with tears, sharing that they’ve hidden their disabilities out of fear, it reinforces the importance of visibility and representation. These moments are powerful reminders of why I do this work—to create spaces where authenticity is celebrated, and differences are viewed as strengths rather than deficits.
My podcast, “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” has been a platform to amplify diverse voices and share stories that challenge perceptions. Whether it’s intimate conversations with my husband Marty or interviews with influential figures like Anthony Kennedy Shriver and Kaylee Bays, each episode aims to shed light on the multifaceted experiences within the disability community. Approaching the 100th episode, I’m reminded of the continuous journey toward inclusion and the importance of keeping these conversations alive.
Looking ahead, my goal is to continue bringing the topic of disability inclusion into mainstream discourse. I aspire to collaborate with organizations to create more inclusive environments, ensuring that representation spans marketing, employee demographics, and the products and services offered. Disability touches everyone, transcending race, gender, culture, and religion. It’s imperative that inclusion becomes a universal priority, not just a niche concern.
Being featured in international outlets like PopSize UK is more than personal recognition; it’s a beacon signaling progress. It’s an opportunity to reach broader audiences, challenge existing narratives, and inspire systemic change. As we continue this journey, I remain committed to advocating for genuine inclusion, ensuring that every individual feels seen, valued, and empowered.