Delegates will represent Armenia, Bhutan, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mexico, Mozambique, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Romania, South Africa, Tanzania, Thailand, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. These delegates, representing diverse disabilities, bring expertise in fields such as law, policy, business, human rights, youth empowerment, education, health, media, HIV/AIDS, and violence prevention.
Embracing the “Loud, Proud and Passionate!®” theme, WILD women will move forward in their personal and professional roles as community, national and world leaders. Through a series of intensive seminars and site visits, delegates will focus on implementing policy and legislation, networking with international allies, and improving access to healthcare, employment and educational opportunities. Delegates will also participate in team building activities, river rafting, and adaptive cycling, while learning about U.S. culture by staying with local families.
One of the unique components of the WILD program is the Disability and Development Institute, where WILD delegates will meet with representatives from international development, humanitarian and human rights agencies. From June 30 – July 2, this innovative retreat will go beyond rhetoric to engage participants in direct dialogue about strategies for including women and girls with disabilities in development projects throughout the world.
Envisioning the impact on her work, a delegate from Colombia shares her motivation for participating in the program:
“I am committed to using this opportunity to strengthen support networks, promote sustainable changes, and create a collective and transformative impact.”
A delegate from Armenia adds:
“I consider [it] my mission to build a better world for people with disabilities, and that’s why I want to be part of [the WILD delegation] who brings change.”
As a non-profit organization, Mobility International USA (MIUSA) is advancing disability rights and leadership globally®. Since 1981, MIUSA has offered international exchange programs for over 2,300 youth, adults and professionals with and without disabilities from more than 135 countries.
The WILD program is made possible through the generous support of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Channel Foundation, Fanny Bess Philanthropic Fund, Western Digital, MADRE, Rotary Club of Eugene, University of Oregon, Strategy for Humanity Education Fund, and MIUSA’s Women’s Leadership Fund. The program is also supported by national and local organizations and businesses, as well as homestay families and volunteers.
