28 August 2026
DWAI Executive Director Delivers Keynote at BloomFest 2026
DWAI Executive Director Hellen Udoye Beyioku-Alase delivered the keynote address at Brainbloom Centre’s BloomFest 2026, sharing her journey as a Deaf woman and calling on parents and caregivers to see the potential in children with disabilities.
On 10 July 2026, DWAI Executive Director Hellen Udoye Beyioku-Alase delivered the keynote address at the second edition of Brainbloom Centre’s BloomFest, themed “Shining In Our Own Way.”
Speaking on “What People with Disabilities Really Want You to Know,” Hellen shared her personal journey of becoming Deaf at the age of six and the role her mother’s unwavering belief and commitment to her education played in shaping her future.
Drawing from her experience, Hellen encouraged parents and caregivers to look beyond disability and recognize the potential, abilities, and aspirations of children with disabilities. She emphasized that people with disabilities do not seek pity, but opportunities, inclusion, respect, and the chance to contribute meaningfully to society.
Today, Hellen is a Mandela Washington Fellow, disability inclusion expert, and Executive Director of DWAI, where she leads advocacy, policy engagement, and programmes advancing the rights and inclusion of Deaf women and girls across Nigeria.
Her message to parents was simple and powerful: believe in your child, advocate for them, and invest in their education.
DWAI appreciates Brainbloom Centre and Madam Rahanatu Yusuf for the opportunity to contribute to BloomFest 2026 and celebrate children with developmental disorders and their families.
Every child has a gift. Every child deserves the opportunity to shine.
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