VALID is proud to launch VALID Voices – a new speakers program led by people with disability.
VALID Voices brings people with lived experience into conversations that matter. Through public speaking, presentations and community education, our speakers share personal stories, challenge assumptions and help build a more inclusive community.
The program creates opportunities for people with disability to speak directly to organisations, schools, workplaces, conferences and community groups about disability, advocacy, inclusion and lived experience.
What is VALID Voices?
VALID Voices is a group of speakers with disability who use storytelling and lived experience to educate, advocate and create change.
Every speaker brings their own perspective, experiences and strengths. Presentations may explore topics such as:
- Disability awareness and inclusion
- Everyday experiences of people with disability
- Advocacy and self advocacy
- Rights, respect and accessibility
- Employment and community participation
- Housing, independence and support
- The impact of NDIS changes
- Challenging stereotypes and assumptions
VALID Voices is not about speaking for people with disability – it is about creating space for people to speak for themselves.
Who can book a VALID Voices speaker?
VALID Voices speakers are available for:
- Conferences and events
- Schools and universities
- Workplaces and staff training
- Community organisations
- Disability sector events
- Panels and lived experience discussions
Sessions can be tailored to suit your audience and event
Hala Baksmaty
I am a self-advocate and member of the VALID Voices program. I work as an Activ8 Project Officer at VALID, where I visit group homes to speak with residents and make sure they are receiving the support they need.
I am passionate about advocating for myself and others, and about making sure people with disability are heard and respected. I bring warmth, confidence and strong communication skills to my speaking, and I enjoy connecting with a wide range of people.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends, playing pool and bowling, and baking. I am driven by a desire to make a difference and create positive change in the community.
Omar Muhammad
I am a self advocate and member of the VALID Voices program. I work with VALID, where I am part of a team visiting group homes to talk with residents about their experiences and make sure their voices are heard.
I bring strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills and a thoughtful approach to understanding people. I am passionate about independence, choice and making sure people with disability are listened to and respected.
Outside of work, I enjoy video games, reading and writing, and I am working towards my goal of becoming a screenwriter. I also have experience in retail and value learning new skills and building my confidence.
Raven Moore
I am an Activ8 Project Officer in the Self Advocacy team at VALID Australia. Since joining VALID in 2023, I have worked across projects including VALID8 and My Home, My Plan.
Through the Activ8 project, I support people with disability to share their experiences and feedback, helping services improve and become more responsive to the people who use them.
I am passionate about creating more inclusive opportunities for people with disability and making sure people’s voices are heard. I enjoy being part of VALID’s supportive and welcoming workplace culture and honestly feel it is the best job I have ever had. As part of the My Home, My Plan project, I have helped develop practical housing resources for NDIS participants and am excited about supporting people to have more choice and control in where and how they live.
Over the next few years, I hope to continue growing my work in advocacy and leadership and, one day, live independently with a cat.
David West
I am a self-advocate who identifies as LGBTQIA+ and a proud Warribarra man.
I have worked in the Self Advocacy team at VALID for the past four years and was originally part of the VALID8 project team.
I am now working on the Activ8 project, which is similar to VALID8. We visit group homes, day services, and supported employment settings to survey participants.
Book a speaker
Interested in booking a VALID Voices speaker or learning more about the program?
Please contact VALID:
📧 [email protected]
📞 (03) 9416 4003