Celebrating Aspirations on International Wheelchair Day: Voices of Ben and Jasper

This International Wheelchair Day, Whizz Kidz is amplifying the voices of young wheelchair users, showcasing their ambitions, dreams, and the barriers they face daily. The theme this year is Aspirations—reflecting on both the advice people wish they'd received 10 years ago and the hopes individuals have for the next decade.

We all have dreams, and young wheelchair users are no exception. Ben and Jasper, two incredible individuals, have shared their personal insights, goals, and challenges. Their stories remind us that, just like their peers, they are driven by passion, curiosity, and a determination to make a difference.

Ben's Journey: From Puppets to the Big Screen

Ben is passionate about puppetry. For him, the idea of controlling a puppet and bringing characters to life isn’t just a hobby—it’s a dream. “I want to be a puppeteer,” he says confidently, sharing that in the next 10 years, he hopes to meet more famous puppeteers and even break into the film industry.

However, like many young wheelchair users, Ben faces challenges that sometimes overshadow his dreams. One of the biggest hurdles he encounters is the way people perceive him because of his wheelchair. “They see me in a chair and assume I’m younger, so they talk to me like a baby. I wish people wouldn’t just see that,” Ben explains.

Despite this, Ben is unyielding. He’s proud of how far he’s come, especially meeting celebrities and impressing them with his vast knowledge of puppetry. And his advice to other young wheelchair users is simple but powerful: “You’re not just a person in a chair. Be yourself.”

Jasper's Dream to Soar: A Pilot in the Making

Jasper has his eyes on the skies. He wants to be an airline pilot. He dreams of flying across the globe, visiting all seven continents, and experiencing the world from above. This goal is within his reach—his determination is unmatched.

Yet, like Ben, Jasper is confronted with the challenge of accessibility. “I want there to be more ramps!” he says, emphasising how important it is for public spaces to accommodate people with mobility challenges. Accessibility isn’t just a convenience—it’s a right.

What Jasper has already achieved is impressive. He learned how to sit-water ski, a thrilling accomplishment for any young person, but especially for one who faces the challenges of using a wheelchair. His message for other young wheelchair users on International Wheelchair Day? “Always speak out about making the world more accessible for all people.”

Both Ben and Jasper share a deep frustration with the lack of universal access. “It's hard getting around some places, so please build more ramps and make sure lifts and accessible toilets are working,” Jasper urges. This common theme of accessibility challenges highlights the importance of creating environments where everyone can thrive—no matter their mobility needs.

Looking Ahead: The Next 10 Years

What does the world look like in 10 years if we support young wheelchair users in their goals and provide them with the resources they need? Ben hopes to be working in film and puppetry, perhaps with his own puppet show on television or in a movie. Jasper, with his dream of becoming an airline pilot, might one day soar across the globe, showing the world that mobility doesn’t limit ambition.

On this International Wheelchair Day, let’s remember that the right wheelchair, support, and accessible spaces can make all the difference. For Ben, it means the ability to express himself and share his talent with the world. For Jasper, it’s about breaking through barriers—both literally and figuratively—to achieve his dream of flying.

The next 10 years should be filled with endless possibilities for all. Happy International Wheelchair Day! Be sure to share your voice, dreams, and aspirations with the world.