Recently I interviewed Yousef who became a running coach for the blind by fate. Yousef earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and has been coaching cycling and running in Saudi Arabia for 2 years. His first blind trainee, Reem, is a 25-year-old woman, and is soon to be a lawyer. Reem is legally blindContinue reading “We agreed that I will be her eyes. An interview with a running coach for the blind.”
Tag Archives: inclusion
Cultivating Socials Skills In People Who Are Blind Or Visually Impaired
In my previous article (Understanding Social Anxiety and Blindness), I talked about how a lack of social skills can lead to social anxiety in people who are blind and visually impaired. In this article, I am focusing how building social skills can prevent or reduce the risk of having such anxiety. Studies have shown thatContinue reading “Cultivating Socials Skills In People Who Are Blind Or Visually Impaired”
Let’s Take a Trip: Blind Experiences with Air Travel
By Roqayah Ajaj During this time of year, before COVID-19, many people would be preparing for vacations, trips to visit family, etc. Air travel during the winter holidays is stressful for everyone, but blindness adds another layer of complexity to my travel experience. Even though there are policies that require assisting travelers with disabilities, theseContinue reading “Let’s Take a Trip: Blind Experiences with Air Travel”
Do You Have a Neighbor Who Is Blind?
Here is how you can begin working toward inclusion. by Roqayah Ajaj “Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light.” Helen Keller Studies have shown that blind individuals often feel isolated and lonely, as they have challenges building relationships that would lead to inclusion in social activities inContinue reading “Do You Have a Neighbor Who Is Blind?”
Quick Tips for Blind Inclusion in University Settings
Inclusion isn’t too challenging; you can be creative and proactive to meet individual needs. By Roqayah Ajaj To promote inclusion for students who are blind and visually impaired in higher education settings, everyone must collaborate to work toward that goal: the university system at large, the staff, the students, and the faculty. Here are someContinue reading “Quick Tips for Blind Inclusion in University Settings”
Act Thoughtfully When Assisting People who are Blind or Visually Impaired: Tips and Guidelines for Inclusion
By Roqayah Ajaj I often feel that I am a stranger and awkward person when I interact with new people since many people surprise me when they assist me. This happens when they cross my boundaries by touching me, grabbing my cane, pulling me, or even silently guiding me. This article will give some tips ofContinue reading “Act Thoughtfully When Assisting People who are Blind or Visually Impaired: Tips and Guidelines for Inclusion”