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Rejections forced me to take funeral home job – Lady born with one hand
Defying Expectations: A Young Woman's Journey of Resilience and Advocacy
Gloria Nweke, a 26-year-old from Anambra State, Nigeria, is challenging societal norms and advocating for disability inclusion. Born with one arm, Gloria has carved out a unique path for herself, working in a funeral home and using her experiences to inspire others.
Early Life and Family Support
Growing up in Mgbakwu, Awka North Local Government Area, Gloria's family played a crucial role in shaping her positive outlook. She recalls a childhood where she didn't feel different from her siblings or peers. Her family consistently treated her as an equal, fostering a sense of normalcy and self-acceptance. This unwavering support system instilled in her the confidence to navigate the world and pursue her goals. She is the second to last of five children.
Education and Career Aspirations
Gloria is a graduate of the Federal Polytechnic Oko, where she studied Library and Information Science, completing her studies in 2024. She emphasizes that her education was a significant milestone, fueled by her family's belief in the power of learning and personal development. While she hasn't yet participated in the National Youth Service Corps program, she is eager to apply her knowledge and skills to contribute positively to her community.
Overcoming Challenges and Stereotypes
Despite her supportive upbringing, Gloria has faced her share of challenges. She acknowledges experiencing stigma and stereotypes due to her disability. Many people, she notes, harbor misconceptions about the abilities of individuals with disabilities. During her time at the polytechnic, she became more aware of these societal biases, which sometimes led her to question herself. However, the continued encouragement from her family and friends helped her build resilience and maintain a positive attitude.
Finding Strength and Purpose
Gloria draws strength from her dreams, her passion for advocacy, and her desire to share her story. She believes that by openly discussing her experiences, she can empower others to embrace their uniqueness and advocate for their rights. This sense of purpose has been instrumental in overcoming obstacles and pushing forward.
Handling Societal Bias
Gloria has learned to navigate societal bias and curious stares. She often uses these encounters as opportunities to educate others and dispel misconceptions about disabilities. She differentiates between genuine interest and mere curiosity, responding accordingly and focusing on positive interactions.
Proving Her Worth
Like many individuals with disabilities, Gloria has often felt the need to prove her worth in professional and social settings. She is actively working on building her confidence and showcasing her abilities, rather than constantly feeling pressured to justify her presence.
Advocacy and Inclusion
Gloria's personal experiences have ignited a strong sense of purpose, driving her to advocate for disability inclusion. She recognizes that her unique perspective is a valuable asset in creating a more inclusive and accessible society. Her Facebook page, "Disability Awareness," serves as a platform to share her experiences and raise awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities.
Changing Perceptions
Gloria notes that people are increasingly recognizing her courage and abilities, which motivates her to continue inspiring others. She finds it fulfilling to see the positive impact of her efforts. While she acknowledges that her condition has made her more cautious in relationships due to misconceptions about disability, she prioritizes connections built on mutual respect and understanding.
Addressing Misconceptions about Love and Family
Gloria firmly believes that people with disabilities are capable of leading fulfilling lives, finding love, and building families. She emphasizes that they deserve the same opportunities and respect as anyone else. She actively challenges the misconception that individuals with disabilities are incapable of forming meaningful relationships or raising children.
The Nigerian Context
Living with a disability in Nigeria presents unique challenges. Gloria acknowledges that the country still has a long way to go in terms of accessibility and support for people with disabilities. She is committed to raising awareness and advocating for greater inclusivity.
A Voice of Hope
Gloria strives to be a source of hope and inspiration for others living with disabilities. She believes that by sharing her story and advocating for inclusion, she can make a tangible difference in their lives.
Desired Changes
Gloria envisions a Nigeria with improved infrastructure, including wheelchair-accessible buildings and public spaces. She also calls for increased education and awareness to promote understanding and acceptance of people with disabilities.
The Need for Resources and Opportunities
Gloria points out the current lack of sufficient resources and opportunities for people with physical disabilities in Nigeria. While some organizations are working to provide support, she emphasizes the need for increased investment in accessible infrastructure, education, and employment opportunities tailored to the unique needs of this community.
An Unexpected Career Path
Gloria's journey led her to an unexpected career in a funeral home. After facing numerous job rejections, she took the opportunity out of a desire to remain productive. This experience proved to be transformative, shaping her into the person she is today.
A New Perspective on Life
Working around grieving families has profoundly impacted Gloria's perspective on life. She has gained a deeper appreciation for its fragility and unpredictability, learning to value every moment and cherish the people around her. This work has cultivated empathy, patience, and an awareness of the importance of living a meaningful life.
Coping with Emotional Challenges
The emotional demands of working in a funeral home can be draining. Gloria copes by maintaining balance in her life, spending time with loved ones, talking to trusted friends and family, and taking time for reflection. She finds purpose in knowing that she is playing a meaningful role in supporting families during their most difficult moments.
Challenging Expectations in the Workplace
Initially, many clients and colleagues are surprised to see a person with a disability confidently handling the responsibilities of her job. Some have even discouraged her, suggesting that the work is unsuitable for her. However, Gloria has never allowed these comments to deter her. Instead, she uses them as motivation to prove that her disability does not define her abilities. Over time, her dedication and competence have earned the respect and encouragement of those around her.
Memorable Experiences
One of Gloria's most memorable experiences was driving the ambulance for the first time. This accomplishment shattered expectations and assumptions, demonstrating her capabilities and boosting her confidence.
Addressing Misconceptions about Funeral Homes
Gloria has encountered many misconceptions about funeral homes, often fueled by fear and cultural myths. She emphasizes that the reality is a professional and respectful environment focused on providing dignified farewells and supporting grieving families.
Advice for Employers
Gloria advises employers to focus on the abilities, strengths, and potential of individuals with disabilities, rather than dwelling on their limitations. She stresses that people with disabilities are capable, hardworking, and committed employees who bring unique perspectives and resilience to the workplace. Inclusion, she emphasizes, involves creating a supportive environment with reasonable accommodations and equal treatment.
A Source of Pride
Looking back on her journey, Gloria is most proud of her unwavering determination and her ability to overcome challenges and defy expectations. She is proud of her personal growth, her role in challenging stereotypes, and her ability to inspire others to persevere despite obstacles.
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