“Let's Talk Impact” Podcast with Tiffany Yu, Founder @ Diversability

Who Is Tiffany Yu?

Tiffany Yu is the CEO & Founder of Diversability, an award-winning entirely disabled-run and led social enterprise to elevate disability pride, and a content creator with 170k+ followers across platforms. She is a 3x TEDx speaker and has been named a TikTok API (Asian & Pacific Islander) Trailblazer and a LinkedIn Top Voice in Disability Advocacy. At the age of 9, Tiffany became disabled as a result of a car accident that also took the life of her father.

Tiffany has helped to invest over $160,000 in disability initiatives through the Awesome Foundation Disability Chapter and the Disability Empowerment Endowed Fund at Georgetown University. She previously served on the San Francisco Mayor’s Disability Council. She has been featured in Marie Claire, the Guardian, and Forbes. She started her career in investment banking at Goldman Sachs and has also worked at Bloomberg and Sean Diddy Combs' REVOLT Media & TV. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University and a master's degree from the London School of Economics.

What is the “Let’s Talk Impact” Podcast?

The Let’s Talk Impact podcast is a collection of insights from educators, entrepreneurs, investors, activists and community leaders seeking to demystify access to capital, resources, knowledge and illuminate pathways toward successful impact ventures in NYC and around the world hosted by Justyna Kedra, founder @ WERULE.

Hosted By Justyna Kedra & produced by Janusz Kedra

Innovation for All: Why Designing for Disabilities Benefits Everyone

The human experience encompasses a vast spectrum of abilities. While some navigate the world with relative ease,others face daily challenges due to disabilities. Here's where innovation shines – by creating inclusive solutions that empower everyone to live fulfilling lives.

Beyond Accessibility: A Broader Vision

Innovation for disabilities goes beyond ramps and accessible bathrooms. It's about pushing the boundaries of design to create a world where everyone can participate, contribute, and thrive. Here's how:

• Unlocking Potential: Technological advancements like voice-activated interfaces and screen readers empower people with visual or mobility impairments to access information and technology. This fosters independence,inclusion, and opens doors to new opportunities.

• Fostering Empathy: As we design for diverse needs, we cultivate empathy and understanding for a wider range of human experiences. This creates a more inclusive and compassionate society where everyone feels valued and respected.

• Driving the Future: Innovation for disabilities often leads to breakthroughs that benefit everyone. For example,text-to-speech technology, originally designed for visually impaired users, is now a mainstream tool for multitasking and accessibility.

Examples of Innovation in Action:

• Smart Homes: Imagine a home environment that adjusts to your needs – voice-controlled lighting, automated appliances, and smart thermostats can make daily living easier for people with various disabilities.

• Assistive Technologies: Prosthetic limbs that mimic natural movement, exoskeletons that enhance mobility, and communication devices that empower non-verbal individuals are just a few examples of life-changing assistive technologies.

• Inclusive Learning: Educational tools that cater to diverse learning styles, such as audio textbooks and captioning for videos, ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to learn and succeed.

The Benefits of a More Inclusive World

Investing in innovation for disabilities isn't just the right thing to do – it makes good business sense. Here's why:

• Expanding the Market: A significant portion of the global population has some form of disability. By creating inclusive products and services, businesses tap into a vast and untapped market.

• Enhanced Brand Image: Companies that prioritize accessibility demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility and diversity, attracting a wider customer base and fostering brand loyalty.

• A Future for All: By creating a more inclusive world through innovation, we pave the way for a future where everyone can reach their full potential and contribute their unique talents.

The Call to Action:

Innovation for disabilities isn't just about technology – it's about a shift in mindset. Let's challenge the status quo and design a world where everyone feels empowered and included. Here are some ways to get involved:

• Support Businesses with Inclusive Practices: Seek out companies that prioritize accessibility and make your purchasing decisions accordingly.

• Advocate for Change: Speak up for inclusive policies and raise awareness about the importance of designing for disabilities.

• Embrace Innovation: Be open to new technologies and solutions that can improve the lives of people with disabilities.

Let's work together to build a future where innovation empowers everyone to live their best lives, regardless of ability.