Meet Akanni Oluwatoyin, a resilient 25-year-old lady who shares her journey of resilience and determination in the face of physical challenges. She opens up to TEMITOPE ADETUNJI about how her disability shaped her life and career path.
Tell us about your background and where you hail from.
Originally from Ede in Osun State, my name is Akanni Oluwatoyin, and I currently reside in Ibadan.
Growing up as an amputee presented its share of trials and tribulations. I encountered various painful experiences and hurdles that often made me feel like an outsider among my peers. However, these challenges instilled in me a sense of resilience, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for individuality.
My journey as an amputee has been instrumental in shaping my identity, and despite the hardships, I cherish the strength and compassion it has cultivated within me.
Could you narrate the story behind your disability?
My life took an unexpected turn due to a life-altering accident in 2022. During our return from a program, a bus mishap led to the loss of my right leg, marking the beginning of a new chapter where I embraced a prosthetic limb to aid in my mobility.
When did you start using prostheses?
I started using a prosthesis in 2022.
What is your occupation?
A graduate in Agricultural Economics and Extension, I have ventured into writing, public speaking, smartphone graphics design, photography, and entrepreneurship. My business focuses on selling liquid soap, detergent, data, and charcoal. Furthermore, I lead the Eagle Girls Foundation, an organization dedicated to championing inclusivity for persons with disabilities and empowering them to lead fulfilling lives.
Our foundation’s vision revolves around fostering social acceptance and support for individuals with disabilities, while our mission emphasizes empowerment through various initiatives such as skill acquisition, advocacy, and partnerships to create a more inclusive society.
What inspired your resilience in overcoming physical challenges to pursue your passions?
My unwavering determination and aspirations motivated me to defy the odds imposed by my physical limitations and strive for personal growth and fulfillment.
Despite encountering obstacles, I refused to be defined by my disability and remained focused on realizing my dreams with tenacity and perseverance.
Which educational institutions did you attend?
I completed my primary education at Glory Land Group of Schools, followed by secondary education at Nikadem Model College. For my tertiary studies, I pursued Agricultural Economics and Extension at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, in Ondo state.
How did your academic journey shape your outlook on life?
My university experience was initially isolating, but eventually, I engaged more with peers and activities that enriched my personal growth, transforming me into a more confident and proactive individual.
Share a specific hurdle related to your disability and your triumph over it.
Embracing my identity and refusing to let societal stigmas affect me has been pivotal in overcoming challenges associated with my disability.
How has your physical disability influenced your career path and aspirations?
Initially dissuaded from pursuing journalism due to perceived obstacles, I redirected my focus to agricultural economics during my undergraduate years, where I found purpose in advocacy and community service, contributing positively despite my physical limitations.
Through this shift, I discovered a new avenue for impact and personal fulfillment, emboldening my professional aspirations in empowering others and fostering social change.
Describe the support system aiding you in navigating life with a physical disability.
Family, pastors, and friends constitute my primary support network, offering unwavering love, encouragement, and practical assistance that have been indispensable in my journey.
I am immensely grateful for their presence in my life and the strength they provide in overcoming adversities.
How crucial has your family’s support been in your journey?
My family stands as my pillar of strength, providing unconditional support and belief in my capabilities, propelling me to navigate challenges with resilience and determination.
What is your birth order within your family?
I am the second child in my family.
How do you advocate for accessibility and inclusivity?
My advocacy efforts span educational posts on my Facebook page and active involvement with the Eagle Girls Foundation, promoting inclusivity through awareness campaigns, workshops, and collaborations.
How do you uphold a positive mindset and stay motivated amid challenges?
Maintaining a positive outlook involves staying determined, staying engaged, and seeking solutions to obstacles, fueled by the support of a nurturing circle of friends, family, and mentors who champion my journey and aspirations.
Remaining grounded and motivated is crucial to me.
Could you recount some impactful experiences that have influenced your journey as an individual with a physical disability?
One significant experience that has profoundly shaped my life is my unwavering commitment to advancing my education. This pursuit has been incredibly beneficial for me.
What guidance would you offer to others grappling with physical disabilities and other adversities in life? How can they muster the strength to chase their aspirations?
My advice to those confronting similar hurdles, be it physical or otherwise, is to never underestimate the power of resilience and determination. Irrespective of the barriers in your way, acknowledge that you possess the inner strength to overcome them and pursue your dreams. Have faith in your capabilities, establish goals, and go after them. Do not shy away from seeking assistance or seeking support when necessary. Encircle yourself with positive influences, whether they are friends, family, or mentors who can provide encouragement and guidance on your life’s voyage.
Remember, your dreams hold immense value, and with perseverance, determination, and a support system, you can surmount any challenge and achieve your objectives.”
How do you tackle misconceptions or stereotypes regarding disabilities in your interactions?
A key approach is continually educating individuals about the actualities of disabilities by sharing my personal encounters with them to challenge stereotypes, foster comprehension, and cultivate empathy.
Moreover, I advocate for inclusive practices and accommodations that cater to the needs of individuals with disabilities and encourage others to consider accessibility and inclusivity in their actions and decisions.
Lastly, leading by example by showcasing competence, independence, and confidence in my abilities is crucial. Demonstrating to others that disability does not define me or restrict my capabilities.
How can the practice of self-care be nurtured while managing a disability?
For me, self-care is about nurturing my body, mind, and soul and making decisions that bolster my overall well-being. I approach self-care by prioritizing ample rest during stressful periods, taking my nutrition seriously, and emphasizing hydration.
Additionally, I prioritize activities that bring me joy and fulfillment, whether through spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or engaging in creative pursuits such as writing or designing.
How have you dealt with challenges related to accessibility, such as in transportation and public spaces?
Dealing with accessibility challenges in public spaces, apart from the bank in my school environment where I require assistance to operate the machines, has not been a significant issue for me.
Could you elaborate on any endeavors or projects you are engaged in that advocate for disability rights?
Certainly, I have been involved in various projects supporting disability rights.
In 2021, I delivered a speech at an event titled “Abilities in Disability” held at the Ondo State Hearing Impaired School.
I am also a member of a project called “The Abled, Not Disabled” that focuses on creating social impact.
I lead the team for the “What Makes the Difference” initiative.
We are gearing up to launch the “Harmonising the Bridges” project later this year.
Lastly, I am in the process of penning a book on inclusion.
What are your future objectives, both personally and professionally?
My objective is to fulfil God’s purposes for my life by aiding the needy, assisting the helpless, demonstrating love, inspiring and uplifting the despondent. This mission also encompasses propagating the essence of inclusion until our world evolves into a better place for everyone, irrespective of their unique abilities.
Could you share some triumphant moments or achievements since your amputation that fill you with pride?
Several milestones resonate with me, but I take immense pride in my academic accomplishments during my undergraduate studies. It marked a significant triumph for me.
What message would you like to convey to society regarding the capabilities and potential of individuals with disabilities?
I seek to convey that individuals with disabilities are invaluable members of society. We harbor a plethora of talents, skills, and potential that often go unnoticed. It remains a universal truth that our worth is not defined by disabilities and they do not hinder our ability to make meaningful contributions to society. I implore society to acknowledge and embrace the capabilities and perspectives of individuals with disabilities by fostering inclusive environments and affording equal opportunities. Together, we can unleash the full potential of every individual, irrespective of their physical variances.
I wish to delve deeper into the concept of inclusion. Inclusion revolves around treating others the way we desire to be treated. It governs how we think and act towards others and reciprocally how they treat us. It encapsulates granting everyone the chance to learn and evolve collectively.
Being inclusive demands purposeful intent. It involves identifying and eliminating barriers to ensure that everyone can partake in society.
Now, let’s touch upon the inclusion of individuals with disabilities. Disability inclusion emphasizes the involvement of individuals with disabilities in all facets of life. It promotes equality in treatment and provides them with equal opportunities as their counterparts.
Disability inclusion is a responsibility incumbent on everyone. It celebrates and welcomes diversity.
Creating a world where individuals with disabilities are fully integrated is conceivable. And it commences with each one of us. Let us collectively work towards its fruition.