Disability leadership network opens

WOMEN with Disabilities Victoria officially launched its Bendigo leadership hub last week.

The hub, a partnership project between WDV and Centre for Non-Violence, aims to provide a space for women living with disabilities to work together, share experiences and advocate for more accessibility in the region.

WDV Bendigo liaison officer Emma Klemm said she’s looking forward to hosting the leadership network.

“It will be a safe and inclusive space to connect on local issues and advocate for local positive change,” she said.

Ms Klemm also said connecting with CNV made perfect sense for the organisation as it is “accessible and a safe environment for people to meet.”

WDV is now looking for members to join the new network.

“I am interested in hearing from everyone who would like to be a part of the hub,” Ms Klemm said.

“If you have any accessibility requirements or supports needed, I would like to chat about that to make sure you can be a part of it. Some people may prefer to attend meetings online, so Zoom links will be available for that.”

Bendigo is the fifth community network launched by WDV, joining Barwon, Moira, Melbourne Outer East and Warrnambool.

Manager of community inclusion and women’s empowerment at WDV, Liz Wright, said the networks run once a month.

“We’re excited to launch in Bendigo,” she said. “Bendigo is a vibrant city with so many great events and community groups to take part in.

“WDV is excited to add to the city’s diversity by hosting a disability inclusive hub. The hubs are educational, provide leadership training, and social connections for people in the area.”

Joining forces with WDV, senior manager of strategic projects at CNV Robyn Trainor said the not-for-profit hopes to amplify the voices of women with disabilities.

“We are committed to increasing accessibility, addressing the overrepresentation, oppression, and marginalization of women with disabilities, and working to eliminate community barriers and gaps,” she said.

“We seek to work collaboratively and preventatively, to increase equality, respect and inclusion and address key drivers of violence.”