Contributions & Collaborations
Where my perspectives connect with wider conversations, research and community work.
Alongside WovenAware, I contribute to public discussions, research and community initiatives.
This page brings together selected work, including contributions that are independent of WovenAware.
Published & Featured
Access Is Not Special Treatment: Stephanie’s Story
Wokingham Borough Council | October 2026
I was featured in an article exploring the difference between being present and being genuinely included.
I shared my perspectives on communication access, belonging and the importance of involving Deaf people in decisions from the beginning, drawing on my experiences and involvement in the Inclusive Design Group.
Finding My Voice as a Deaf Storyteller
The Limping Chicken | October 2025
I shared my experiences of growing up Deaf in a hearing world, often adapting to others and feeling unheard.
I reflected on how writing helped me make sense of those experiences, reclaim my story and eventually create WovenAware.
Public & Community Contributions
Black History Month Exhibition
Wokingham Borough Council | October 2026
I was featured in Honouring Our Communities, a Black History Month exhibition commissioned by Wokingham Borough Council and the Voice of Inclusion and Equality (VINE).
My portrait and biography shared different parts of who I am – Black, Bermudian, Deaf, a mum and a member of the Wokingham community.
No single part of my identity tells the whole story.
Sharing Lived Experience at Full Council
Wokingham Borough Council | July 2026
I spoke at Wokingham Borough Council's Full Council meeting about my involvement in the Inclusive Design Group.
I highlighted how residents' lived experiences can help shape public spaces and services, why accessibility includes communication and not just physical access, and the importance of involving people before decisions are made.
Inclusive Design Group
Social Care Future Wokingham | Since March 2026
As a member of the Inclusive Design Group, I work alongside other residents to contribute lived experience to discussions about public spaces, buildings and services across Wokingham borough.
I bring a Deaf perspective to communication access, signage and how spaces are designed and used, highlighting barriers that might otherwise be overlooked.
The group works with council teams, architects and developers to consider accessibility from the beginning of the design process.
Research & Participation
Deaf Experiences of Healthcare
Loughborough University | April 2026
I took part in a PhD research study at Loughborough University exploring how Deaf and hard of hearing people manage their health and participate in decisions about their care.
During a research interview, I shared my experiences of communication barriers, BSL interpreter access and the importance of healthcare professionals communicating directly with Deaf patients.
The discussion also explored advocacy and what could make healthcare access and participation more consistent.
Projects & Other Work
Worldwide Deaf Gym
Director & Project Coordinator | Since September 2026
Worldwide Deaf Gym (WDG) works to improve fitness opportunities for Deaf people.
As a Director and Project Coordinator, I contribute to project planning, coordination and the development of the organisation's work.
My involvement with WDG is separate from WovenAware.
The Work Continues
I continue to contribute through writing, research participation, public conversations and community projects.
These experiences bring opportunities to question assumptions, exchange perspectives and learn from others.
For enquiries specifically about WovenAware, you can explore how to work with the platform.