30 ‘global leaders’ in disability awareness and this Mississauga woman is among them
Published July 26, 2024 at 11:59 am
A Mississauga woman born with a rare neuromuscular disorder who has developed a reputation as a strong inspirational speaker on the global stage has received additional international recognition.
Lauren Pires, a PR/media specialist for a non-profit arts organization who’s quick to describe herself as an invisible disability ambassador, was named this week one of 30 people from around the world to the 2024 D-30 Disability Impact List.
The annual list, launched in 2020 and announced each July during Disability Pride Month, celebrates 30 global leaders “who have significantly contributed to the disability community,” those involved in the initiative say.
It’s compiled by U.S.-based Diversability, an award-winning social enterprise that aims to “rebrand disability through the power of community.”
The organization further describes itself as “a community of people with disabilities (and the people who support us) on a mission to elevate disability pride together.”
Pires, who last November placed second in an international speaking contest held in Toronto, is one of two Canadians named to the 2024 D-30 Disability Impact List.
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Born with Central Core Disease, which limits her to about 33 per cent of the physical strength of the average person, Pires has become well known for her advocacy for those with invisible disabilities.
An invisible disability, according to the Invisible Disabilities Association, is a physical, mental or neurological condition that is not visible from the outside, yet can limit or challenge a person’s movements, senses or activities.
The Mississauga woman, who’s also become known for her contagious enthusiasm in both her personal life and as an advocate, said it’s an honour to be included on the latest Disability Impact List.
“I’m glad that sharing my experience has allowed me to raise awareness and understanding for invisible disabilities,” Pires, the first Canadian ambassador for the U.S.-based IDA, said in a news release issued Thursday. “This recognition not only validates my efforts, but also shines a spotlight on the importance of inclusivity.”
Dan Shaikh, co-founder of Speaker Slam, the international inspirational speaking competition in which Pires was runner-up in 2023, said despite challenges she has faced, Pires “has become a powerful voice for those with invisible disabilities, encouraging others to embrace and own their unique stories.”
He added her inclusion on the 2024 D-30 Disability Impact List is well earned.
“It shows just how much her work matters,” said Shaikh. “Her journey isn’t just about facing her own challenges, but also about helping everyone understand invisible disabilities better. Lauren wants to educate people on what it’s really like to live with an invisible disability and to create a more caring and inclusive community. She believes that just because you can’t see a disability doesn’t mean it’s not there, and understanding this can make a big difference in how we support each other.”
Lauren Pires finished second at an international speaking competition held last November in Toronto.