01/03/2026
A Life of Worth and Independence – Jaya Nair
"Good morning everyone,
Today, we join the global community to celebrate International Wheelchair Day. This day is about the independence this chair provides, but more importantly, it is about the dignity of the people who sit in them.
I’ve lived two lives. For many years, I was a walking person. But nearly 40 years ago, an accident left me paralyzed. I returned to the Seychelles at a time when the world wasn’t ready for me. Finding work was a battle against inaccessible buildings and even more inaccessible mindsets. Yet, I persevered. I built a career as an IT professional, and 15 years ago, I co-founded my own company.
I am proud to say that in four decades, I have never taken disability benefits. I chose to earn my way, and even now, in early retirement, I am in the office mentoring the next generation. But I want to be clear: I’m not trying to use my disability to play the victim. This isn't about pity; it’s about power.
You should never let people minimize you or make you feel less because you live with a disability. I know the world is programmed to think that disability is a 'bad' thing, but it’s not. We are still human. We still have feelings, a body that works in its own way, and the drive to be better every day.
For the past few years, I’ve been sharing my life on wheels to be the role model I needed myself all those years ago. When you feel embarrassed or start to feel 'less,' remember: you are not less, and you are not weird. You are worthy exactly as you are.
We deserve to be seen, heard, and given real opportunities. Life doesn’t end with a spinal cord injury. It gets harder, yes—but it doesn’t stop. There is still much work to do for full inclusion and accessibility in our society, but we move forward with our heads held high.
My story is just one of many. Today, we celebrate:
• The Wheelchair itself, which serves as our legs and our bridge to the world.
• User-Friendly Workplaces that recognize talent over physical form.
• Resilience, the 40-year journey of adapting, overcoming, and thriving.
"While I take pride in what has been achieved, I must pause to acknowledge the heart of my journey. Throughout every twist and turn of my life, my wife Sreekala has been my constant support. To be honest, without her by my side, reaching this milestone would have been a near-impossible challenge. Sreekala, thank you for being the foundation I stand on and for your endless patience and love. I would also like to thank my parents and my family for the unconditional support they have me throughout this journey. Thank you Christine and the team, for setting up Ramp Up, Rise Up and Seymobility to provide support and create awareness to better our lives."
So, Chin up, and chin up to all my fellow wheelchair users. You are worthy.
Happy International Wheelchair Day!"