Ras Adiba Radzi, a former Senator of the Upper House in the Parliament of Malaysia, remains actively involved in politics. Currently, she balances her roles as a mother, wife, poet, politician and athlete. Ms. Radzi has become a prominent advocate for the rights and well-being of Persons with Disabilities in Malaysia, using her platform to amplify their voices. 

IVLP Impact Award Project: GERAK the Workshop

In a transformative 2-day workshop, choreographers dedicated to inclusivity imparted traditional dances to 20 participants. Ras' project's unique approach featured a choreographer specializing in training dances for individuals with disabilities, an accessible venue, and sign language interpreters, ensuring a fully engaging experience for all participants. This intentional inclusivity shattered stereotypes, showcasing that people with disabilities can express themselves through dance and engage in new activities, challenging societal misconceptions.

The workshop's impact reverberated widely, garnering attention in local news and social media platforms. This visibility not only celebrated the achievements of the participants but also sparked a wave of interest in hosting more inclusive workshops for people with disabilities. Beyond the workshop, the participants are poised to take the stage in a local theatre production, using their performances to empower others and exemplify the boundless capabilities within the community. With this project, Ras demonstrated how fostering inclusivity and challenging preconceived notions through the power of the arts can bring about positive societal change.

 

 

"I aspire to see more and more people with disabilities be given the chance to spread their care and love through music." - Ras Adiba Radzi

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Ras Adiba Radzi is a recipient of the International Women of Courage Award, organized by the U.S. Department of State and Meridian International Center.

U.S. Communities Visited

Los Angeles, CA; Washington, DC; Cleveland, OH

"This has been an amazing journey. It motivates me to reach the moon, and [teaches me] that the word impossible doesn't exist." - Ras Adiba Radzi

Country: Malaysia

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