Grant Logan

CEO & Founder of Ability Today CIC
Ability Today CIC

Award category:

Politics, Law and Media

My name is Grant Logan, and I am the founder of Ability Today, an award-winning social enterprise dedicated to empowering disabled individuals through education and employment. Following a life-changing motorcycle accident, I initially created The Wheel Life, a social network for wheelchair users, and later launched Disability Today, an online news platform that evolved into a not-for-profit social enterprise in 2017.

Our first major initiative was the Roving Reporter program in 2018 which evolved into the Academy for Disabled Journalists; this was launched in partnership with the NCTJ in 2020. This paved the way for further programs, including the Academy for Disabled SEO Specialists in 2023, with upcoming courses in coding and bookkeeping. In 2019, we rebranded to Ability Today, reflecting our mission to focus on the capabilities of disabled individuals.

I have been honoured to witness the transformative impact of our initiatives on over 100 students, helping them secure positions at esteemed media organisations such as the BBC, ITV, and Newsquest. Our students have also gained invaluable work experience at top publications, including The Guardian, The Sun, The Times, and CNN.

One piece of advice that has always resonated with me is to never let limitations define your potential. This philosophy has driven me to create an inclusive educational platform where students, regardless of their abilities, can thrive. Witnessing their growth and success, from securing apprenticeships to becoming full-time journalists, motivates me every day.

In my journey, I have faced significant personal challenges, including a recent prolonged period of being bedridden due to health issues. However, my commitment to Ability Today and the success of our students has kept me resilient. It is a testament to the power of purpose and perseverance.

The pandemic has highlighted the importance of remote learning and working opportunities, enabling disabled individuals to participate actively online from their homes in accessible classes, creating inclusive environments where students can learn and thrive without feeling isolated.

Never let limitations define your potential. In today’s evolving landscape of disability advocacy in the UK, the barriers are being dismantled, and opportunities are growing. At Ability Today, we are proving that with the right support and accessible resources, disabled individuals can achieve remarkable success. Together, we can build a future where everyone has the chance to thrive.

Q&A

Grant Logan
There are many barriers in life, more so if you have a disability. Use your disability as your strength and believe in your potential. Never let your limitations define you. Believe in your abilities and focus on your strengths. Your unique perspective and experiences are valuable assets. Remember, your journey can inspire others and contribute to creating a more inclusive and accessible world. Your success is a testament to the power of perseverance and the limitless potential within you.
We now have over 100 students who are studying with us or have passed our unique accessible online course, with student alumni working full time at the BBC, ITV and Newsquest. My work with Ability Today has impacted the disabled community by providing accessible education, career opportunities, and raising awareness about disability issues. We have students working freelance for publications such as Metro, Radio Times, Lifestyle Magazine and many more, themselves raising awareness on issues Impacting the disabled community.
My future goals in the field of disability advocacy are centered around expanding the reach and impact of Ability Today and continuing to break down barriers for disabled individuals. Specifically, I aim to expand our educational programs, providing Bookkeeping / Coding, Customer Management courses and create networking opportunities and direct pathways to work placements for our students.
Socialising with friends and family and catching up on the latest Netflix binge!
I love to travel and explore new places and cultures.
Dogs
If I could change one thing, it would be to ensure universal accessibility, inclusion and eliminate barriers that prevent disabled individuals from fully participating in all aspects of life.
There are still barriers in so many areas too many to name but primarily physical, technological, education, employment and accessibility need to be addressed.

Areas of expertise

Charity, social enterprise, Community, Education

Disability Power 100 profile information is self-submitted by the profile subject. Shaw Trust understands and respects that disability and impairment descriptors and language use varies from person to person. Shaw Trust assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or discrepancies in the content of this, or any other, profile page.

Image credits: Taken by Power 100 photographer in 2023
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