Anne Wafula Strike MBE
Honorary Doctorate, Paralympian, Rights, Access and Inclusion Champion, Sports Ambassador, and Non-executive Director
Sport
I am a disability rights campaigner and sports ambassador, and I am determined to make sure no one is left behind just because of a disability, by raising issues that marginalise us such as transport, education, and representation in all areas.
In 2017, I went public about an injustice I suffered when I could not use an accessible toilet because it was ‘out of order’. I continue to lobby organisations and government to ensure meaningful access and inclusion is on the agenda.
I also support various charities in the capacity of ambassador, champion, and patron. I provide a personal example of boldness, commitment and determination that continues to challenge misconception about disability.
In 2020, I was appointed as the Commonwealth Nations Special envoy for equality in sports with a role to promote the Commonwealth’s values and principles by connecting sporting initiatives and supporting the implementation of the SDGs relating to sport, peace, and development and improving equality in sport.
When I became the first Goodwill Ambassador for Action on Disability and Development International (ADD International), I helped in the campaigning for nations to ratify the UN Convention on the ‘Rights and Dignity of Persons with Disabilities’.
“When you have a disability, knowing that you are not defined by it is the sweetest feeling.
I believe in giving people opportunity and not sympathy. I give because I know what it feels like to lack.”
Disability Power 100 2023 profile information has been self-submitted by the profile subject. Shaw Trust understands and respects that disability and impairment descriptors and language use varies from person to person. Shaw Trust assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or discrepancies in the content of this, or any other, profile page.
Photo credits: Alice Freeman
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