Celebrating Aspirations on International Wheelchair Day

In honour of International Wheelchair Day, Whizz Kidz is celebrating the incredible aspirations, resilience, and dreams of young wheelchair users who continue to pursue their ambitions despite the challenges they face. This year, we’re focusing on Aspirations—exploring the hopes and advice of young wheelchair users. We sat down with two inspiring Whizz Kidz Ambassadors, Sophie Morgan and Izzy Wheels, to reflect on their personal journeys and share their insights for the next generation. In this post, they offer valuable advice on independence, the power of community, the importance of self-expression, and the need to advocate for change.

Sophie Morgan: Empowering Independence and Overcoming Barriers

Sophie Morgan, a TV presenter, disability advocate, and Whizz Kidz Ambassador, has been challenging perceptions and breaking down barriers throughout her life. Reflecting on her own experiences, Sophie shared a valuable piece of advice: “Independence isn’t just about doing everything alone—it’s about knowing when to ask for support.” For Sophie, independence used to mean doing it all herself, but over time, she learned that true independence is about making choices that work for you and recognising that sometimes seeking support is part of that journey.

Growing up, Sophie faced many challenges—chiefly, the realisation that the world wasn’t built with her in mind. “There were physical, social, and attitudinal barriers everywhere I turned,” she remembers. But rather than letting these obstacles define what was possible, Sophie chose to challenge them. She started speaking up, advocating for better access, and refusing to take “no” for an answer. “I realised that I wasn’t alone—there was an entire community fighting for change,” Sophie says.

Her advice to younger wheelchair users is to embrace the process of trial and error: “Don’t be afraid to try, fail, and try again.” For Sophie, each setback is an opportunity to learn and grow, and the more you push yourself, the more confident you become.

Sophie also emphasises the importance of building a life that works for you, not one that fits other people’s expectations. “Everyone will have an opinion on what you can or should do, but the only person who really knows your limits—or lack of them—is you.”

When it comes to navigating school, work, and social life as a wheelchair user, Sophie’s practical tip is simple: “Plan ahead, but don’t let barriers stop you from showing up.” Whether it’s checking accessibility in advance or having a backup plan, a little preparation can go a long way. And don’t be afraid to advocate for better access when things aren’t right! “The more we demand better access, the more the world will change,” she says.

Izzy Wheels: Finding Your Voice and Expressing Yourself

Izzy, the co-founder of Izzy Wheels, has been making waves with her creative and colourful wheelchair accessories that help wheelchair users express themselves. Her advice to younger wheelchair users focuses on embracing your unique perspective and finding power in your voice. “Your opinions and insights are valuable,” she shares. Izzy wants young wheelchair users to know that they have the opportunity to shape how the world understands disability. “Speak up and share your story,” she encourages. By doing so, you can make the world a better place not just for yourself but for others too.

Growing up, Izzy faced the challenge of showing people that wheelchairs aren’t just mobility aids—they are tools of empowerment and freedom. She felt that standard wheelchairs, because of their clinical appearance, sometimes made her seem unapproachable. But when she started decorating her wheelchair with Izzy Wheels, it became more than just a piece of equipment—it became a conversation starter, a confidence booster, and a way to express her identity. “Adding colour and personality to my wheelchair made it feel more like an extension of me,” she reflects.

Izzy’s advice for young wheelchair users is to embrace their independence and take it at their own pace. “You do not need to be afraid of being independent,” she says. “Your life will become infinitely better with each step you take toward independence.” She also encourages young people to take full advantage of Whizz Kidz opportunities: “Say yes to everything! Be curious, be brave, and take every opportunity that comes your way.”

For navigating school, work, or social life, Izzy suggests that it’s okay to ask for help. “For too long, I believed that asking for help meant I was a dependent person,” she says. “But I’ve learned that being able and comfortable with asking for help is an integral aspect of independence.”

Advice for the Future: The Power of Advocacy and Community

Both Sophie and Izzy share a strong belief in the power of advocacy. Sophie encourages young wheelchair users to speak up about accessibility and inclusion, particularly in places like school, work, and their local communities. “Start with your own experiences—what challenges have you faced, and what changes would make a difference?” she advises. Izzy echoes this sentiment, reminding young people that a lot of inaccessibility is the result of oversight, not malice. By bringing attention to these issues, young people can empower others to help make positive changes.

For both of them, one of the most important messages they want to share with younger wheelchair users is that they are not alone. “There is an entire community out there who understands, who has your back, and who is fighting for the same things you are,” Izzy says. Sophie adds, “Feeling like you’re the only one going through something is common, but the truth is, there’s a world of people who support you. Reach out, connect, and know that there is so much support for you.”

Looking to the Future

On this International Wheelchair Day, we celebrate the ambitions of young wheelchair users everywhere. Sophie and Izzy’s words remind us that with the right mindset, support, and resources, nothing is out of reach. Whether you’re navigating school, advocating for better access, or pursuing your dreams, you have the power to make a difference.

Whizz Kidz will continue to challenge barriers, break down walls, and embrace young wheelchair voices. Happy International Wheelchair Day! Let’s keep striving for more accessible, inclusive, and empowering spaces for everyone.