Call for nominations: 2020 awards for women with disabilities

The awards were initiated in 2018 by Light for the World, an international disability and development organisation, in collaboration with Ethiopian lawyer and disability rights activist Yetnebersh Nigussie.

"2020 has been nothing short of eventful," Light for the World said. "We've seen catastrophic bushfires in Australia, the global COVID-19 pandemic,and the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, uniting people worldwide against racism and police violence.

"Whether on the front lines or ploughing a quiet furrow for progress, many women with disabilities are role models in these times of crisis and renewal. Their situation often means they face extra danger – which makes their bravery even more awe-inspiring. Yet, too often, their stories remain unheard."

Nominations can be submitted in the following categories:

• Arts, culture and sport.
• Health and education.
• Rights.

By highlighting the achievements of women with disabilities, the awards aim to:

• Celebrate success.
• Break down barriers in public perception.
• Build a strong network of women committed to the further pursuit of equality and excellence.

Nominations

Nominations can be submitted here.

The nomination deadline is 27 September.

Selection

The 2020 jury consists of US disability rights activist Judith Heumann, Ghanaian businesswoman Farida Bedwei, UK Paralympian Susannah Rodgers and Nigerian disability rights leader Ekaete Judith Umoh.

The following criteria will be used to award the winners: