I Am A First-Gen Changemaker

I am a first-generation immigrant in the United States who has two master's degree in the field of special education. Currently, I work with children with the most complex disabilities across different parts of the world as an advocate and a technical expert in this field. Many years back, when I first told my family that I wanted to pursue my studies and career working with children with disabilities, my family simply didn't say anything. When people asked them what I did for work, they would respond and say that they didn't really know. Back then, was it taboo to speak about children with disabilities? Perhaps.

Their narrow mindset about who I choose to support was hurtful to me, but I didn't know how to make them see things differently without being defensive or angry. One day, I realized that I had to leave home to be able to develop my craft and go after my dreams. That is what I did.

Through the years living in America, I learned to build my confidence to share what I do with my family and friends with full pride and joy. I learned to be able to articulate clearly for myself and for others, why I do what I do, and that is because I believe that every child, despite their complex challenges deserve opportunities that will help them thrive and have meaningful life.

Today, through my work, I am able to impact children across countries by convening and empowering members of communities to make positive changes for all children to succeed in life. I am no longer annoyed by people's ignorance or strange reactions about children with disabilities. In fact, it becomes an opportunity for me to help another person grow. Now, I am more than grateful to my family, who despite those years of not understanding me, has stood by me, and gave me the space that I needed to grow and live my passion. I am a first-gen changemaker in my family, and I am so proud of my nieces and nephews who are now, like me, following their dreams.