WeDeserveBetter: A Movement for Accessibility and Inclusion

In a world where progress is often celebrated, it’s sobering to realise how far we still have to go in addressing the needs of millions within the disabled community. Accessibility is not a privilege; it’s a fundamental human right. Yet, countless barriers remain, preventing disabled people from living independently and with dignity.

This stark reality is what inspired the #WeDeserveBetter campaign – a rallying cry for change that highlights the injustices faced by those with limited mobility and calls for genuine action to break down these systemic barriers.

The Inspiration Behind #WeDeserveBetter

My name is Anouska, and as a 38-year-old entrepreneur, mother of three, and advocate for change, I’ve faced these barriers every single day. Nine years ago, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a condition that has progressively impacted my mobility. While I now rely on aids like a rollator and wheelchair, adapting to this new way of living has opened my eyes to how inaccessible the world truly is.

From uneven pavements to inaccessible buildings and even the everyday struggle of opening chiller doors in supermarkets, I’ve repeatedly been reminded of how society falls short in accommodating those with disabilities. What’s even more disheartening is the frequent need to rely on the kindness of strangers to overcome obstacles that could have easily been addressed with thoughtful design and awareness.

These unnecessary challenges aren’t just inconvenient, they’re a glaring indicator of exclusion. But they also lit a fire within me to fight for change, not just for myself but for millions of others facing similar struggles.

Anoushka is a white woman with long blonde hair, she is a wheelchair user and is wearing black leather look trousers, a white fluffy coat and a black beret, she is winking and pointing at a graffitied wall that says anything is possible

A Personal Journey Turned Public Movement

This year, I reached a crossroads, the compounded weight of my illness and the relentless barriers I encountered left me feeling defeated. At my lowest point, I questioned whether I could continue. But somewhere deep within, a flicker of determination reminded me of who I am: resilient, resourceful, and unyielding. That spark became a flame, and soon, a mission.

I turned to TikTok (@theladyprada) as a way to share my experiences, both the challenges and the silver linings of living with limited mobility. To my surprise, my videos resonated far and wide, connecting me with a community of individuals who understood the struggle and shared the vision of a more inclusive world.

From this collective desire for change, #WeDeserveBetter was born: a movement designed to raise awareness of the systemic barriers faced by the disabled community and demand meaningful, lasting improvements to accessibility standards.

If It’s Not Accessible, It’s Not Acceptable

For too long, accessibility has been treated as a tick-box exercise. But true inclusion isn’t about meeting the bare minimum; it’s about creating spaces where everyone can participate equally, without exception. Unfortunately, current standards often fall woefully short, leaving individuals with disabilities excluded from experiences most take for granted.

Through #WeDeserveBetter, I’m working to:

Raise Awareness: Sharing personal and collective stories that shed light on the everyday struggles of disabled individuals.
Promote Accountability: Urging businesses, governments, and society to treat accessibility as a non-negotiable priority.
Inspire Unity: Encouraging people—disabled and able-bodied alike—to stand together in advocating for change.

Redefining Mobility Aids: Fashion Meets Functionality

While the fight for accessibility continues, I’ve also sought to challenge the stigma surrounding mobility aids. I’ve always loved fashion, and I refuse to let my aids detract from my identity. Instead, I’ve embraced them as extensions of my personality.

My rollator, affectionately named “Lady Prada,” and my wheelchair, “Madame Chanel,” have been transformed into stylish, bold conversation pieces adorned with crystals, designer badges, and faux fur. They’re not just tools, they’re a statement of confidence and individuality, chariots of independence, showing that disability doesn’t diminish one’s sense of self or style.

Calling for Action: Together, We Can Create Change

While I refuse to let barriers define how I live, this fight is bigger than me. It requires a collective effort to dismantle outdated systems and prioritize inclusivity at every level of society.

This is where you come in. I’m inviting businesses, policymakers, and individuals to join the #WeDeserveBetter campaign. Whether it’s amplifying the message, implementing better accessibility measures, or simply listening to the voices of the disabled community, every contribution makes a difference.

Let’s work together to create a future where accessibility is no longer an afterthought but a foundation of our shared world. Let’s build a society that values inclusion and ensures no one is left behind.

Black background with a line drawing of a wheelchair user and the text Living not existing

Join the Movement

The fight for accessibility and inclusion is far from over. But with unity, determination, and action, we can achieve real, lasting change.

Let’s amplify this movement and demand the improvements that we all deserve.

Together, we can make a difference.

#WeDeserveBetter

Follow the journey on TikTok: @theladyprada

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