Apna ghar recognised at Walsall Disability Awards 2009
We were delighted that our service for Asian Elders was recognised at the 3rd Annual Walsall Disability Awards event which took place on 1st April 2009. As runners up for the Older People’s Award our team based at Apna Ghar received a certificate from Paul Sheehan, Chief Executive of Walsall Council, who was Master of Ceremonies for the evening.
Paul reminded us that people with disabilities continue to face a world full of barriers but that “with the right opportunities and the will to succeed they can overcome what some of us may think of as insurmountable obstacles”. In all there were 10 awards and 27 finalists in an evening which celebrated individual achievements and the work of a number of local agencies. What better evidence that Walsall and Walsall people have the wish to succeed and to provide opportunities for all.
We sponsored the Physical Disability Award and Mike Hew, Chief Executive of Caldmore announced the winners, Training and Placement Team - Manufacturing Links Access Point, who were presented with their trophy by the guest of honour, Vidar Hajardeng. Vidar is currently the Diversity Manager for ITV News and he has had a long career in journalism and the media. Although registered blind he has clearly not let this prevent him from realizing his ambitions. He says “This merely made me all the more determined and I doggedly set out to realise my professional ambition”.
Speaking of his varied career and many achievements over 20 years Vidar adds, ”I certainly recognise how lucky I have been. Nevertheless, I do remain only too aware of the difficulties faced by fellow disabled people in their quest for employment. Tenacity is obviously vital when looking for a job, but so too is pragmatism and the realistic assessment of your own capabilities. A positive approach on the part of others is equally essential but, whilst there’s still a long way to go, I really do believe that there is a growing willingness to acknowledge people’s ability rather than their disability”.
