Ebie Edwards Cole

Activist

When Ebie joined Wyggeston and Queen Elizabeth I College Leicester aged 16, she experienced for the first time how an anticipatory approach and inclusive practice can enable all students: no longer was she being asked to mask her autism for the convenience of others or made to feel an inconvenience for requiring adjustments for a musculoskeletal disorder.

With this insight, Ebie became determined to challenge systemic inaccessibility. In 2017, Ebie began studying at the University of Oxford and soon became a leading figure in the university’s movement for disabled students being elected as both the Disabilities Officer for New College and as chair of the Student Union’s Disabilities Campaign.

Ebie’s resolute approach and advocacy has secured advances in the provision of mental health support and accessible communications, and the introduction of an accessible sports program. As co-author of the Oxford Library Accessibility Guide and Recommendations Paper in 2018, Ebie campaigned extensively for the implementation of the recommendations, securing substantial improvements. She has also raised awareness of issues such as the disabled students’ attainment gap. In recognition of her achievements, Ebie received a University of Oxford’s Vice Chancellor’s Social Impact Award.

In 2019, Ebie contributed to the Disabled Students’ Inquiry Roundtable at the House of Lords, explaining the importance of amplifying the voices of disabled students, recognising the barriers faced, and seeking to deliver equitable education for all.

Ebie speaks openly and unashamedly about disability. As she graduates this year, Ebie is committed to broadening her activism and continuing her contribution to the fight for accessibility, equality, and justice for disabled people.