Experts have emphasized that a knowledge-based approach, grounded in accurate information, education, and targeted support, is essential to dismantle longstanding myths surrounding disabilities and gender-based violence (GBV), which continue to perpetuate stigma, exclusion, and harm in the society.
Speaking at a recent career and empowerment summit themed “Be Your Authentic Self: The Courage to be Seen,” UK-based social worker and disability advocate Mrs. Grace Alexander urged deliberate efforts to demystify misconceptions about epilepsy and disability through widespread education.
Alexander, Founder of Star Children Development Initiative, noted that the misconceptions around epilepsy and disability, particularly in Nigeria, have for decades fueled discrimination, fear and social exclusion.
“Epilepsy is still treated as a taboo. People believe it is contagious or a spiritual curse, but it is simply a neurological disorder of the brain. Once you understand this, knowledge empowers you to move forward,” Alexander said.
Alexander, who lives in the United Kingdom, said her advocacy was deeply rooted in her Nigerian identity and personal experience of raising a child with disabilities.
“I am Nigerian first and foremost. I was born in Nigeria. That is why I care. Children living with disabilities are human beings before anything else. They have the capacity to learn, grow and thrive, depending on the environment we create for them,” she said.
She explained that through partnerships, her organization empowers parents to reject harmful religious and cultural narratives that label disability as a curse.
Alexander said the summit focused on owning your story, changing negative narratives, and fostering a sense of belonging.
“Our perspectives shape our realities. What you believe about yourself or your child determines how far you go,” she said.
Alexander also drew attention to the often-overlooked burden borne by caregivers, particularly mothers, noting that there are little or no policies in place to support carers of persons living with disabilities.
“If a caregiver is traumatized, how can they adequately care for a child with special needs? Caregiving is emotionally and financially demanding, and governments must begin to support carers intentionally,” she said.
Prof. Chinwe Nwana, delivering the keynote address, highlighted the devastating impact of gender-based violence, describing it as an umbrella term covering physical, psychological, emotional, economic and harmful traditional practices.
“While both men and women can experience gender-based violence, women and girls are disproportionately affected because of their subordinate status in society and attempts by men to exert control,” Nwana said.
She listed forms of GBV to include physical assault, verbal and emotional abuse, denial of economic opportunities, female genital mutilation, widowhood practices and sexual violence.
Nwana said the consequences ranged from injuries, fractures and death to unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, long-term trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder.
According to her, women living with disabilities face even greater risks, including homelessness, poverty, unemployment, health complications and heightened vulnerability to abuse.
Speaking on the summit’s theme, Nwana described “authentic self” as living in alignment with one’s true values, emotions and identity, rather than suppressing them to satisfy societal expectations.
“Violence erodes the authentic self. Many survivors conceal their pain because of shame, and this delays healing,” she said.
She advised survivors of gender-based violence to rebuild their sense of self through positive affirmations, physical activities, rediscovering hobbies, seeking professional support, joining support groups and setting personal goals.
“Be kind to yourself as you heal. Life is a process of weathering and rebuilding. There is purpose in your journey, and a future waiting for you,” Nwana said.
The summit ended with a call for inclusive policies, increased awareness, and collective responsibility in addressing disability inclusion and gender-based violence.