I’ve been fortunate to have been super busy this past while, and I’m excited to share some of what I’ve been doing and upcoming plans!
I have several upcoming (virtual!) speeches scheduled, the first being at SHRM’s 7th Annual Diversity & Inclusion Panel on May 20th. I’ll have a one-on-one conversation and answer questions from an interviewer about promoting disability inclusion in the workplace, setting up a disability corporate culture, and more. Last year, there was an audience of around 300 people, so we’re hoping to see just as many people this year, too!
On June 15th, I’ll be doing a breakout session for the Virginia Emergency Management Symposium. I’ll be talking about the ways to include people with disabilities in emergency planning process and the importance of making sure people with disabilities are prepared for emergencies, too. I spoke at this event previously, and I’m excited to be a part of it again!
Then, I’ll be presenting about professional development for the Youth Leadership Academy of Virginia on July 14th. I’ll be talking with students with disabilities—sophomores, juniors, and seniors—about things everyone should know about professional development, such as what to wear during an interview, how to conduct yourself on social media, how to write a resume, and how to find a job. I’m excited to continue to share my experiences with the next generation and discuss how to feel prepared for the workplace!
Additionally, I’ll be a keynote speaker at the 2021 North Dakota Power Up Health Conference on September 10th. I’ll be sharing the ways I’ve maintained good health during the pandemic. I’ll specifically highlight how I’ve maintained virtual connections with friends and family, how I’ve started eating better, exercising, and virtually visiting a therapist to maintain my physical and mental health. I’ll also be doing a breakout session that will focus on my transition from being a youth advocate to becoming an entrepreneur and starting my own business. We’re hoping to see 300 or more people at this virtual event!
On March 15th, I presented my disability sensitivity training to Beyond Boundaries’ Board of Directors. On March 16th, I spoke at an event held by Jewish Learning Venture and Inclusion Innovations called Everyone’s Welcome: A Fresh Discussion on Disability.
Matthew provides his disability sensitivity training to the Beyond Boundaries Board of Directors as part of a zoom presentation. The slide reads nonverbal learning/social communication disorders. It is white lettering on a red background with the wheelchair symbol without the wheel on the slide. Six people on a zoom call listen to the presentation.
I’m also continuing to redevelop the podcast and work on my book, and I have several meetings lined up in April to talk to some potential clients. In other exciting news, I got my first Moderna shot and will get the second in April!
I’m glad that I’ve had so many opportunities come up lately and look forward to staying busy in the next few months, too! hope everyone is doing well and staying safe and healthy!