Disability Pride Month: Changemakers in Their Own Words

In many countries, July is Disability Pride Month. It serves as a reminder that there is no shame in being disabled or having a disabled family member, a message that is important worldwide. Disabled people and their allies continue to fight against stigma and for full inclusion in every part of society - education, employment, and community activities.

Here, DSI partners share their thoughts about the work they do, the children and families they support, and the love that keeps them strong.

“My dream is to see that all children with disabilities have equal rights. I hope that they can go to school and have a good education and be able to get a job when they become adults. I want no discrimination."

- Chanpheak, Cambodian school leader, DSI Master Trainer and person with disabilities

Read about Chanpheak, a DSI changemaker

"Every child has unique talents. The real challenge is providing them with the opportunities and support they need to shine."

- Seamhy, Cambodian teacher

Read about Seamhy, a DSI changemaker

“I peeped through a small window and saw this little beautiful girl living with Cerebral Palsy. The mother had left her there to go and sell water for their daily bread. The neighbours told me to check on them in the evening, when I came back I met this lady who is a single mother of four who had been abandoned by the husband due to their child's disability...”

- One of many children’s stories that led to the start of this DSI partner organization in Kenya, as told by the founder, Judith

Read about DSI’s partnership with Children with Disabilities Support Organization in Kenya

"Inclusive education benefits everyone. It fosters empathy, cooperation, and creativity among all students. This isn't about special needs students—it's about transforming learning environments for all… Every child with disabilities should have equal access to education and the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in society."

- Daneth, Cambodian Master Trainer and teacher

Read about Daneth, a DSI changemaker

“In Tanzania, children with disabilities are often neglected and lack adequate support to help them thrive. This issue is deeply personal to me, as my own sister, Imani, has an intellectual disability. I have firsthand experience of what it means to grow up with a sibling with a disability. Having had the opportunity to receive a quality education in the United States, I now feel a strong responsibility to use my knowledge and skills to support people with disabilities in Tanzania, including my own sister."

- Steven, DSI Tanzanian partner director

Read about DSI’s partnership with The Karagwe Rural Development and Environmental Conservation Agency in Tanzania

“I did not need someone to tell me how to love my son. He taught me how to see life as he does… I wish to see all children and youth with disabilities access an educational lifetime of quality, inclusion, and equality."

- Chinda, Cambodian parent of a child with autism and DSI Master Trainer

Read about Chinda, a DSI changemaker

“Our journey is not complete until society and everyone in the community treat us like anyone else under the law, without discrimination. For if we are truly created equal then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well.”

- Sarin, DSI Cambodian partner director and person with disabilities

You can help DSI and our partners continue to build pride and provide meaningful education for children with disabilities. Donate to support our work generally or a specific training with one of our partners.

While financial support is necessary for training sessions to take place, DSI also welcomes skilled volunteers with expertise in program development, fundraising, social media, and more. There are lots of ways to get involved and help us improve the lives of children with disabilities around the world.