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Episode 40 – Embracing Every Aspect of Life with Catarina Rivera


Published: Thursday March 28, 2024

Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast

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Welcome Catarina Rivera

headshot of public speaker and d e i consultant catarina rivera she is a light-skinned latina woman with dark brown wavy hair she is smiling in front of a blurred background

In this episode of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” we’re joined by Catarina Rivera, a leader of inspiration in disability awareness, inclusion, and accessibility. As a disabled Latina woman, Catarina has navigated a complex journey from the quiet acceptance of her hearing and vision disabilities to becoming a vocal advocate and change-maker. Through her story, we see the power of community, the pivotal moments that define our paths, and how embracing one’s truth can ignite a broader movement towards a more inclusive world. Catarina shares her evolution from a classroom teacher in the Bronx to a globally recognized DEI consultant and public speaker, shedding light on her vision for a world where every disability narrative is heard and valued.

Key Highlights:

🎧 Reflecting on a life with hearing aids and the sudden onset of a vision disability that reshaped Catarina’s worldview.

🗽 The influence of New York City’s blind community on Catarina’s acceptance and advocacy for her disabilities.

🏫 From influencing young minds in the Bronx to inspiring change across organizations, Catarina’s educational roots fuel her passion for DEI work.

🌐 Launching Blindish Latina to fill the void of disabled Latina representation and to redefine societal perceptions of blindness.

✈️ Merging her love for travel with her advocacy, Catarina aims to broaden the horizons of accessible tourism, proving that disability is not a boundary to exploring the world.

Inspirational quote:

Wherever you are in your disability journey is OK. You’re not behind; you’re right on time.

Catarina Rivera

Discover more about Catarina:

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Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations on Pushing Forward with Alycia. Open hearts, clear paths. Let’s go.