I’m thrilled to share some exciting news!
Earlier this year, I applied for the 2026–2027 Disability Rising Fellowship at the Disability Culture Lab. Today, I received the wonderful news that I have been selected to move forward to the next stage of the application process.
The Disability Rising Fellowship supports disabled leaders who are using storytelling, advocacy, and media to create meaningful change. Advancing to the full application stage is an incredible encouragement, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to continue in the selection process.
As a filmmaker, writer, and deaf storyteller, I have dedicated much of my work to improving disability representation in film and media. Through projects like ThisAbility, my academic research on deaf representation in cinema, and my ongoing advocacy, I strive to tell authentic stories that challenge perceptions and amplify disabled voices.
The next step involves submitting a comprehensive application and a letter of recommendation. Finalists will then be invited to interviews before the fellowship cohort is announced later this year.
While there is still a long way to go, I’m thankful for this opportunity and excited to share more of my story, my work, and my vision for creating a more inclusive world through storytelling.
Thank you to everyone who has encouraged and supported me along this journey. Your belief in my work means more than you know.
I would appreciate your prayers, encouragement, and well wishes as I complete the next stage of the application process.
I’ll keep you updated as the journey continues!