This week, I had the pleasure of speaking virtually at Pluralsight, engaging with their global team and collaborating with their Employee Resource Group, Enable! During my keynote, “The Heart of Inclusion,” we explored practical strategies for advancing inclusion and accessibility, empowering employees to thrive. Thank you to Pluralsight for hosting this impactful event and for your dedication to fostering a truly inclusive workplace. The Q&A engagement was fantastic!
Speaking at Netflix during National Disability Employment Awareness Month was a dream come true for me. As a disability advocate, TEDx speaker, and CEO, I reflected on my journey from a little girl dreaming of the spotlight to addressing major companies worldwide. The experience reminded me of the power of storytelling in advocating for disabled voices and reignited my hope that my story—and others like it—might one day reach the screen.
Alycia Anderson delivered a powerful keynote at Virginia Tech’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) celebration, emphasizing the importance of inclusive workplace practices. Her speech highlighted the need for diversity in hiring and the value of accessible environments. The event fostered an open conversation about disability representation in the workplace and how these efforts contribute to a more inclusive society.
I recently traveled to Michigan, where I had the privilege of delivering my “Heart of Inclusion” keynote to Bay-Arenac ISD educators and teachers in Pinconning. The energy, dedication, and passion I witnessed were inspiring, reinforcing our shared commitment to creating inclusive educational spaces for every student. I am grateful for this opportunity and excited to see the impact of the conversations we started together!
As Disability Pride Month closes, I delivered my ninth and final keynote of July, “Intersectionality Through the Lens of Disability,” at a virtual event hosted by Etsy. Returning for the second consecutive year, I shared insights on inclusion and intersectionality with Etsy’s supportive platform. This wraps up an impactful month where I spoke at various esteemed organizations, reinforcing the importance of disability inclusion and empowerment. Let’s keep the momentum going!
I was honored to keynote Stockton Unified School District’s “ONWARD – Imagine the Possibilities” event, celebrating Disability Pride Month. With over 4,000 staff members at the University of the Pacific’s Alex G Spanos Center, I delivered my Heart of Inclusion keynote, despite a shortened 20-minute slot. Superintendent Dr. Michelle Rodriguez shared uplifting updates, and student performances highlighted the district’s vibrant community. My message on disability inclusion resonated deeply, concluding my sixth Disability Pride Month event.
For the second year, I celebrated the ADA anniversary with Blue Shield of California’s Disability Inclusion Alliance ERG at the “Making the Invisible Visible” event. The celebration, held at Futures Explored Inc., featured a keynote by Dustin Giannelli and highlighted Blue Shield’s commitment to disability inclusion. It was heartwarming to witness their intentional work and be honored for my appointment to the California Department of Insurance’s Insurance Diversity Task Force.
I’m thrilled to return to Sodexo for their Disability Pride Month Panel, marking my sixth event this month. Reflecting on our past collaboration, after being honored with the ERBG Group Award Program of the Year in 2022 was a highlight. Sodexo’s commitment to a diverse, inclusive workplace aligns perfectly with my mission. As we advance, let’s continue championing disability inclusion and making a positive impact. Happy Disability Pride Month! 🎤
On July 22, 2024, I spoke at the NAIC’s Diversity Leadership Forum, aligning with Disability Pride Month and highlighting my appointment to the California Department of Insurance’s Insurance Diversity Task Force. Appointed by Commissioner Ricardo Lara, I represent persons with disabilities business enterprises. I emphasized Disability Pride Month’s significance, the need for inclusion, and best practices for creating inclusive insurance departments to over 50 state insurance regulators.
On July 19, 2024, Alycia Anderson delivered her “Heart of Inclusion” keynote at The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, celebrating Disability Pride Month. The open and engaging environment allowed employees to share personal stories about disabilities, fostering a sense of value and inclusion. The Port Authority, known for its vital transportation infrastructure, emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, supporting various employee groups and opportunities for diverse individuals and businesses.
