In an era where diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords but essential components of corporate success, businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of accessibility. At the helm of this transformative movement is Angela Fowler, CEO of Real Life Access, whose visionary leadership is steering organizations toward a more inclusive future. Through her innovative “Access for Everyone” courses, Fowler is dismantling barriers and cultivating environments where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can flourish.
Real Life Access’s unique educational offerings delve into the multifaceted nature of accessibility, encompassing physical spaces, digital realms, and cultural attitudes within organizations. These courses stand as pillars supporting Fowler’s mission to weave inclusivity into the fabric of business operations worldwide. Each course targets a different aspect of accessibility, providing organizations with the tools and knowledge to embrace and implement inclusive practices.
The “Physical Accessibility” module empowers businesses to make their in-person venues accessible to all individuals. This includes practical adjustments such as installing ramps or ensuring wider doorways for wheelchair users. Meanwhile, the “Digital Accessibility” course offers strategies for making online content universally accessible, highlighting the importance of compatibility with screen readers and other assistive technologies.
Perhaps most transformative is the “Cultural Accessibility” course, which fosters an organizational mindset that views diversity as ordinary—not exceptional—and teaches businesses to approach accommodations according to what Fowler describes as “helpful nonchalance.” It’s about creating a culture where asking, “How can I help?” becomes second nature and implementing solutions without stigma or fanfare.
A poignant example shared by Fowler illustrates how these principles can be applied in real-world settings such as corporate retreats. By ensuring venues are wheelchair-friendly, offering diverse food options to cater to various dietary needs, presenting information in accessible formats, and adapting meeting structures for inclusivity—businesses can proactively create environments that welcome everyone.
Yet despite these strides towards inclusivity, misconceptions persist—particularly around the Disability Market’s buying power. Fowler challenges these notions head-on, emphasizing that overlooking this demographic ignores a substantial market segment worth over $2 trillion when including seniors with disabilities. By underestimating this group’s economic influence, companies miss out on significant revenue opportunities.
Fowler advocates for organizations to actively seek feedback from customers and employees with disabilities—a step she views as crucial for identifying and addressing gaps in accessibility efforts. Furthermore, consulting with accessibility professionals can guide businesses toward effective strategies that accommodate their budgetary constraints while advancing their inclusivity goals.
Angela Fowler’s pioneering work underscores a pivotal truth: integrating accessibility into business models isn’t just about adhering to compliance standards—it’s a strategic imperative that fosters long-term success. Her comprehensive courses and consulting services at Real Life Access are not merely about removing barriers; they’re about building bridges—connecting businesses with broader audiences while championing the values of diversity and inclusion.
This journey towards universal access reflects a broader shift in societal attitudes toward disability and inclusion—one that recognizes the inherent value in ensuring every individual has the opportunity to participate fully in both digital and physical spaces. Businesses poised at the forefront of this shift aren’t just doing good; they’re adopting smart strategies that enhance their brand reputation, broaden their customer base, and drive innovation through diverse perspectives.
Angela Fowler’s contributions through Real Life Access illuminate a path forward where accessibility is ingrained in every aspect of business operations—from infrastructure design to digital strategy and corporate culture. As more companies take up this mantle of responsibility championed by leaders like Fowler, we move closer to a world where inclusivity isn’t an afterthought but a cornerstone of how we envision success in our interconnected global economy.
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Linked In: Angela Fowler
Published By: Aize Perez