Welcome to UADS Speak Out! Our podcast is dedicated to raising awareness, promoting inclusivity, and advocating for equal rights and opportunities for people with disabilities. Through insightful discussions, personal stories, and inspiring interviews, we strive to create a supportive space for learning, growth, and positive change. Subscribe now to join our movement and connect with a global network committed to embracing diversity and dismantling barriers. Together, let's celebrate the strength, resilience, and beauty of the disability community.
Publisher
Universal Accessibility & Disability Services (UADS)
Student Voice: Axole Mbulelo on Identity, Disability, and Belonging at University
In this episode of UADS SpeakOUT, we sit down with Axole Mbulelo, a third year Wood Technology student at Nelson Mandela University, for an honest conversation about identity and disability. Axole shares how an accident in December 2023 changed her life, what it took to rebuild her confidence and independence, and how her family, friends, and a supportive lecturer carried her through the hardest parts of that adjustment. She reflects on disclosing her disability to the university, the gaps in awareness around accessibility on campus, and what she wishes people understood about disability not being something that simply disappears when a walker or crutches do. This episode is part of our student voice series, spotlighting the lived experiences of students navigating identity and belonging in higher education.
29 Jul 2026
Beyond the Label: Neurodiversity at University
In this episode we have a conversation with Rayline Nathan to explore what neurodiversity really means for students navigating university life. Delving into common misconceptions, such as the idea that ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, and other learning disabilities fit into neat, easily recognizable categories, the discussion unpacks how neurodivergent experiences actually show up day to day, and how often they go unnoticed by lecturers and peers. Rayline shares insights on self-advocacy, late diagnosis, and the support systems available through UADS and Emthonjeni. Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of what genuine, empowering support looks like, and why the responsibility for inclusive spaces sits with the institution, not just the individual. Tune in to learn how understanding, awareness, and honest conversation can help every student, neurodivergent or not, feel like they belong.
22 Jun 2026
AI, Innovation and Access: The Wins, the Gaps and What Comes Next
In this episode of UADS SpeakOUT, we sit down with Marshall Grant, founder of Grit Hub, for an honest and forward-looking conversation about how the rise of artificial intelligence is shaping the world for students with disabilities.
Marshall unpacks what AI is getting right, the tools already making a real difference, and where the technology is falling short. He also speaks candidly about the road ahead and what still needs to change before AI can truly work for everyone.
Tune in to learn more about the technology that is changing everything and what it means for those who use it!
18 Jun 2026
Student Voice: Finding Answers, Finding Purpose – Graham van Bergen’s Journey
What happens when you spend years experiencing the world in your own unique way, without fully understanding why?
In this powerful episode of UADS SpeakOUT, we hear from Graham van Bergen, a Master's candidate at Nelson Mandela University, who shares his deeply personal journey of discovering he is autistic during his university years.
From navigating uncertainty and self-discovery to embracing his identity, Graham opens up about the challenges, breakthroughs, and lessons that shaped his path. He also reflects on the invaluable support of family and friends who stood by him throughout his journey.
This is more than a conversation about autism—it's a story of resilience, growth, and learning to thrive while gaining a deeper understanding of oneself.
Tune in for an inspiring discussion that challenges perceptions, celebrates authenticity, and reminds us that sometimes the answers we seek about ourselves can change everything.
11 Dec 2025
Changing the Game: Advancing Inclusive Sport for Students with Disabilities at Mandela University
In this episode of UADS SpeakOut, we sit down with the UADS Sports Student Assistant dedicated to promoting inclusive sporting practices across Nelson Mandela University. From adapting sporting codes to ensuring accessible facilities, we unpack the ongoing efforts to create a sporting environment where every student — regardless of disability — can participate, compete, and thrive.
Our guest shares insights into the support provided to students with disabilities, both on campus and at external competitions, as well as the challenges faced in driving inclusive sport initiatives. We also explore how inclusive sport is reshaping campus culture, breaking stereotypes, and fostering a more accepting and empowering community.
Join us as we celebrate the progress made, spotlight the road ahead, and highlight why inclusive sport is not just an initiative — it’s a movement changing the game for everyone.
27 Oct 2025
Student voice: Breaking Barriers; A Student Leaders Journey towards Inclusion
In this episode, we sit down with Mr. Uyanda Nomatyesi, a passionate student leader and advocate for inclusivity at Nelson Mandela University. What started as a personal awakening has evolved into a powerful movement dedicated to making campus life more accessible, supportive, and inclusive for students with disabilities. Uyanda takes us through his transformative journey—how moments of misunderstanding led to greater awareness, and how awareness inspired meaningful action. His story is a testament to the impact of empathy, leadership, and determination in driving real change. Whether you’re a student, educator, or simply someone passionate about inclusion, this episode offers heartfelt reflections and practical insights on building environments where everyone feels they belong. Tune in to discover how one student leader’s voice is helping to shape a more equitable future—one step, one conversation, and one act of inclusion at a time.
19 May 2025
Student Voice: Siya Manana and Sizwe Ngwenya on Navigating University Life with Disabilities
In this episode of the UADS SpeakOut Student Segment, host Kabelo Matena welcomes Siya and Sizwe, two students from Nelson Mandela University, to share their experiences living with disabilities. Siya, a visually impaired final-year tourism management student, and Sizwe, a second-year management student using a wheelchair, reflect on their 2024 academic journey, discussing challenges, support systems, and overcoming stereotypes. They offer heartfelt advice to first-year students with disabilities, emphasizing resilience, openness, and unity. Tune in for a powerful conversation about adapting to university life and thriving against the odds.
29 Apr 2025
Student Voice: Motsidisi Mokwainan's Journey of Self-Discovery and Advocacy
Join us on UADS Speakout as we sit down with Motsidisi Mokwainan, a second-year tourism student at Nelson Mandela University and a contestant for Ms. South Africa Disability 2025. Motsidisi shares her inspiring journey from a visually impaired high school student in Pretoria to an independent university student navigating new challenges. She opens up about her transition to university life, her passion for modeling, and her advocacy for people with disabilities. Tune in to hear how Motsidisi is breaking barriers, finding her voice, and inspiring others. Follow her journey on TikTok (@Motsidisi4298) and learn how to support her in the Ms. South Africa Disability competition!
5 Feb 2025
A Holistic Approach to mental Health For individuals living with disabilities
In this episode we have a conversation with Ms Noqobo Betela, Social Work Manager at Indlela Mental Health Services, to explore a holistic approach to mental health for individuals with disabilities. Delving into common misconceptions—such as the false belief that physical disabilities preclude mental health challenges—the discussion emphasizes the intersection of mental wellness and disability.
Ms Noqobo shares insights on the scarce yet vital resources available in Port Elizabeth, including counseling, police-assisted crisis interventions, vocational training, and community support groups. Listeners will gain practical strategies for fostering resilience, the importance of early intervention, and how to navigate triggers and relapses. The episode also highlights a powerful success story of a client reclaiming her life post-diagnosis, underscoring the transformative impact of consistent support and empowerment. Tune in to learn how education, awareness, and community collaboration can dismantle stigma and create inclusive pathways to mental well-being.
16 Sept 2024
Exploring the impact of GBV against women and children living disabilities and relevant mechanism to address it: Webinar
This thought-provoking podcast episode explores the intersection of gender-based violence (GBV) and disability, delving into the unique challenges and experiences of women and children with disabilities. Join our panelists, Lelethu, Thandi, and Dudzai, as they share personal stories, legal perspectives, and community solutions to addressing GBV in disability communities.
We'll hear Lelethu's powerful personal narrative as a blind, black woman navigating a world often fraught with discrimination and bias. Discover how she's overcome adversity, the importance of self-affirmation, and the critical role of supportive networks. Dudzai will then share her legal perspective, emphasizing the importance of disability rights and the need for robust legal frameworks.
The episode also explores the challenges of caregiving, highlighting Dudzai's experience as a caregiver for her sister. Learn how she navigates the complexities of caregiving, balances emotional needs, and ensures her sister's safety and well-being.
Throughout the episode, we'll discuss the importance of creating inclusive spaces, fostering community support, and combating GBV in all its forms. The panelists emphasize the need for education, awareness-raising, and a multi-sectoral approach to protect and empower individuals with disabilities.
Key Takeaways:
Gain insights into the lived experiences of women with disabilities facing GBV
Understand the legal framework protecting the rights of persons with disabilities
Discover strategies for navigating the complexities of caregiving
Learn how to create inclusive and accessible environments
Understand the importance of advocacy, education, and community support in combating GBV
2 Sept 2024
Promoting Inclusive Teaching And Learning Methods Within Higher Education
The episode discusses the promotion of inclusive teaching and learning methods within higher education, featuring an interview with Dr. Nosiphiwo Delubom, the Deputy Director and Head of Universal Accessibility and Disability Services at Nelson Mandela University. The discussion covers the current state of inclusivity in higher education, effective teaching methods that promote inclusivity, policies and institutional support necessary for fostering an inclusive learning environment, the role of faculty and staff training, and the types of support services critical for student success. Dr. Delubom emphasizes the importance of universal design for learning (UDL), institutional support, and collaboration between disability services units and learning and teaching departments. The episode concludes with Dr. Delubom's future hopes for full access and inclusion of students with disabilities in higher education and her advice to educators and support staff.
3 Jul 2024
Student Perspectives on Disability in Higher Education
In this episode, we will hear from Sinalo Matwa, a dedicated 3rd-year Diploma student specializing in Logistics at Nelson Mandela University. Sinalo lives with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (type 2) and will share her unique experiences navigating university life.
Join us for this inspiring episode as we delve into the realities of student life for individuals with disabilities and learn from Sinalo Matwa's resilience and advocacy.
25 Jun 2024
Understanding Disability Rights and Reasonable Accommodations
In this second episode of UADS Speak Out, host Mison Mbuli is joined by Dr. Adelaide Karumo and Mrs. Siwe Nare to discuss the importance of disability rights and reasonable accommodations, especially within a university setting. The episode covers the evolution of legislation and societal attitudes towards inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Key points include major rights and laws affecting higher education, misconceptions about disabilities, and the importance of reasonable accommodations to enable full participation of students with disabilities. The discussion aims to deepen understanding and empathy, promoting an inclusive society where everyone can contribute and thrive.
00:00 Introduction to Disability Rights and Accommodations
01:10 Meet Our Guests: Dr. Adelaide Karumo and Ms. Siwe Nare
02:38 Understanding International and National Disability Laws
09:10 Challenges and Misconceptions in Disability Rights
21:36 Evolving Disability Rights and Laws
26:22 Reasonable Accommodations in Higher Education
34:17 Conclusion and Takeaways
10 Jun 2024
Introduction to Disability Advocacy
Welcome to the inaugural episode of our podcast! In this episode, we'll be laying the groundwork for what's to come by sharing an overview of our podcast's goals and objectives. You'll get to meet our host, who each bring unique perspectives and extensive backgrounds in disability advocacy.
We'll dive into the importance of disability advocacy within the university context, exploring why it matters and how it can make a difference. Our aim is to create an engaging and informative space for discussions around these critical topics.
Finally, we invite you, our listeners, to join the conversation. Share your thoughts, experiences, and questions with us as we embark on this journey together. Let's amplify voices, foster understanding, and drive change in our communities.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 15 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
29
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
0
Contact UADS - SpeakOut
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of UADS - SpeakOut?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
