Ashley Matanhire
By Ashley Matanhire
With unwavering determination and a passion for creating positive change, I have navigated the complexities of leadership as a woman with a disability. My journey has been marked by resilience, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to empowering others. As I look back on the twists and turns of my path, I am reminded that overcoming obstacles is not only a personal triumph but also a catalyst for empowering others to reach their full potential. Through my story, I aim to inspire and motivate others to embrace their unique strengths, challenge societal norms, and strive for a more inclusive and equitable world.
As a university student with a disability, I have faced unique challenges on my journey to becoming a woman leader. Despite the obstacles, I have learned to embrace my disability and use it as a strength to empower others. Growing up in a small village, I was expected to prioritize family and domestic duties over education and career aspirations due to deeply ingrained gender roles. However, my parents encouraged me to pursue my dreams and I became the first woman in my family to attend university despite my disability.
Throughout my academic path, I faced discrimination, bias, and inaccessible environments. I was often the only woman with a disability in the room and my opinions were frequently dismissed. Despite these obstacles, I persevered, seeking mentors and allies who believed in me. As I climbed the leadership ladder, I encountered more challenges, including questions about my ability to lead and scrutiny of my decisions. However, I remained focused on my goals, surrounding myself with supportive colleagues and mentors who recognized my potential.
Born with a visual impairment that affects my mobility and ability, I faced stigma and discrimination, making me feel like I didn’t belong. However, my parents encouraged me to pursue my dreams, and I became the first person with a disability in my family to attend university. In higher education, I encountered new challenges, including inaccessible buildings and lack of accommodations. I refused to let these barriers hold me back, advocating for myself and working with my university to create a more inclusive environment.
Through my leadership journey, I have learned the importance of empowering others. I have mentored young women, providing guidance and support to help them navigate their own leadership paths. I have also advocated for gender equality and policies that promote inclusivity and diversity. I realized that leadership is not about being perfect but about being authentic and empowering others.
I began mentoring students with disabilities, sharing my experiences and providing support. I also advocated for disability rights and inclusivity on campus. My journey taught me that disability is a strength, not a weakness, and self-advocacy is crucial for success. Inclusion benefits everyone, not just individuals with disabilities, and empowering others is a way to empower myself. Perseverance and resilience are essential for overcoming obstacles, and surrounding myself with people who believe in me is vital. Empowering others amplifies my impact and embracing my uniqueness as a strength is essential.
As a woman leader with a disability, I am proud to be a role model for others. I hope my story inspires students with disabilities to pursue their dreams and become leaders in their own right, creating a more inclusive and accessible world where everyone can thrive. My journey as a woman leader has been transformative, not only for myself but also for those I have inspired. I hope my story encourages others to pursue their dreams, despite the challenges they may face. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world where women leaders are celebrated and valued.