Seminar on Entrepreneurship for People with Disabilities TU Dublin

From left Helen McQuillan(Employability Clare), Des Henry (WALK), Brian Aird (TEAMWork Cooperative, Canada), Prof Tom Cooney (TU Dublin), Marion Wilkinson (National Disability Authority), Prof Yvonne Galligan (TU Dublin), Fergus Finlay (Chair of the Implementation Group for ‘Comprehensive Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’), Eileen Daly (The AT Network), Noelle Daly (Mobility Mojo)

Technological University Dublin (Formerly DIT) held a seminar on June 20th  2019 seeking to understand the supports that are currently available in Ireland to people with disabilities who wish to become self-employed. The stated ambition of the event was to identify what future actions can be taken to make entrepreneurship a more visible option within the community. ÁT were delighted to be invited to speak at the event and again In keeping with our basic principle of “nothing about us without us” our Leader Eileen Daly. Please see her account below:

“The seminar provided delegates with an opportunity to explore, discuss and reflect upon the entrepreneurial options available to people with disabilities. Presenters were asked to deliver a Ted X style presentation which I like so I was comfortable. I explained the AT model and the ways in which it differs to the traditional service user provider relationship.

It was an opportunity to highlight the freedom and flexibility which managing my own staff and budget and having my own company gives me. I also explained that it has challenged me to personally upskill and to recruit staff with varying skill sets so that they can support me with the administrative responsibilities associated with running my company. Entrepreneurship increases your confidence in your own abilities, it takes you out of your comfort zone and you take true responsibility for your choices, decisions and actions. Support is vital but everyone is equal and you are the expert in your own life.

It is my hope that the seminar will have challenged delegates to reflect on their own views and opinions and assist them to see disabled people as entrepreneurs and consumers and not merely as service users who are passive recipients of care. As an entrepreneur, I lead a full, busy and active life which also facilitates me to contribute to and participate actively in my community with my family and friends.”

Eileen Daly