We wrapped up the second session of the Commonwealth Disabled Youth Forum Capacity Building Webinar Series, and we are really encouraged by how powerful the conversation turned out to be. Our theme was Unspoken Realities: Disability and Sexual, Reproductive Health, led by Mrs. Mushimiyimana Gaudence, Executive Director of UNABU and Chair of the CDPF Disabled Women Forum.
This is a topic that is often ignored, yet it affects the daily lives, safety, and dignity of young disabled people across the Commonwealth. The session opened space for honest discussion on the persistent gaps in access to SRHR, the myths that still silence many of us, and the barriers that keep disabled youth from making informed decisions about their bodies.
We talked about the real challenges: exclusion from information, inaccessible health facilities, untrained health workers, stereotypes in our communities, and the higher risks faced by women with disabilities. But we also highlighted opportunities for change. Inclusive policies, better training for health workers, accessible communication tools, community awareness, and programs that empower disabled youth to advocate for their rights.
Every person deserves safe, accessible, and respectful SRHR services. Today reminded us that empowerment grows when we create space for disabled youth to speak about realities that society often avoids.
CDYF will continue pushing these conversations forward. Our voices matter, our experiences matter, and our rights matter.
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