Experience leads the workshops
Disabled people prepared and delivered six of the seven workshops. They discussed job interviews, keeping a job and combining employment with an active life. Lawyer Lenka Frýdková led the remaining workshop for accompanying supporters, addressing misunderstandings about social benefits. The city of Brno provided financial support for the event. [1]
Self-advocates help organise
The organising team included self-advocates Aleš Vojáček, Martina Hronová and Pavel Šmíd. Rytmus designed the event for people with intellectual disabilities and companions from families or social services. Their participation in planning and teaching made experience of disability central to the programme.
Building a shared voice
Milena Johnová of Inclusion Europe presented the European Platform of Self-Advocates and how members work together internationally. Inclusion Europe reported that some participants joined the Czech initiative at the conference. The proposal aimed to connect people around common concerns and strengthen their collective voice in decisions affecting their lives.