The Mano River Youth Network (MRYN) Sierra Leone has launched a transformative training initiative in Makeni aimed at empowering youth activists to champion disability inclusion.

This program, which brings together youth leaders from across the region, seeks to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and equip activists with the knowledge and skills necessary to advocate for systemic changes.

The training, which took place over several days, provided a comprehensive exploration of the obstacles that persons with disabilities encounter in their everyday lives.

From physical barriers in public spaces to social and attitudinal prejudices, the sessions highlighted how these challenges limit opportunities for disabled individuals in crucial areas like education, employment, and civic engagement.

On the first day of the workshop, participants were introduced to the realities of living with disabilities, gaining a deeper understanding of how societal attitudes and inadequate infrastructure often exacerbate the difficulties faced by persons with impairments.

Many of the youth activists, who previously had limited knowledge of disability issues, were struck by the profound impact these barriers have on their communities. Interactive case studies, community-based discussions, and real-life examples were used to emphasize the importance of creating accessible environments in public spaces, transportation, and communication systems.

The core objective of the training is to integrate disability inclusion into youth activism, ensuring that young leaders recognize it as a key aspect of sustainable development.

As facilitators pointed out, disability inclusion is not a secondary issue; it is central to building a more equitable society. “When youth activists understand that disability is a development issue, they become powerful advocates for creating inclusive environments that allow everyone to participate equally,” one facilitator remarked.

By the end of the workshop, participants were equipped with new tools and resources to address and remove barriers to inclusion in their respective communities.

The youth leaders were encouraged to integrate disability advocacy into their broader activism efforts, working to change both physical and societal landscapes to create a more inclusive future.

This initiative marks a significant step towards transforming perceptions of disability in Sierra Leone and across the Mano River region.

The youth activists, now more informed and empowered, are expected to lead the charge in advocating for structural changes, dismantling stigma, and promoting policies that ensure equal participation for all members of society, regardless of ability.