Steven Mifsud MBE

he/him
Entrepreneur and Accessibility Advocate
Direct Access Consultancy Limited

Award category:

Science, Engineering, Technology, Property and Construction

Steven Mifsud MBE is widely recognised for his significant contributions to the field of accessibility through his role as CEO of Direct Access, an award-winning company dedicated to championing inclusivity and supporting disabled people. Under his visionary leadership, Direct Access has emerged as a leading provider of accessibility solutions, operating successfully across the US, UK, and the Middle East.

A hallmark of Direct Access is its unwavering commitment to employing individuals with disabilities. This focus not only creates valuable job opportunities but also fosters an inclusive workplace culture that empowers staff members to thrive. By prioritising diversity in the workforce, Direct Access serves as a model for other organisations aiming to enhance their own accessibility practices.

Steven’s efforts emphasise the critical importance of dismantling barriers and ensuring that environments are accessible to everyone. Through his advocacy and the initiatives led by Direct Access, he has made remarkable strides in raising awareness about accessibility across multiple sectors, including built environments, digital accessibility, and related services. His leadership has been instrumental in creating more inclusive communities, positively impacting the lives of countless disabled people.

Beyond being a prominent advocate for accessibility, Steven Mifsud MBE is also a remarkable role model for the deaf community. As a cochlear implant user, he has firsthand experience with the challenges faced by disabled people. His personal journey exemplifies resilience and determination, and he utilises his platform to inspire others to overcome their own obstacles.

Actively engaged in the speaking circuit, Mifsud shares his insights and experiences across the US, UK, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. His speaking engagements focus on the critical need for creating accessible environments and fostering inclusivity across various sectors. By addressing the challenges faced by disabled people, he highlights the vital role that businesses and communities play in driving meaningful change.

Through his participation in conferences, workshops, and seminars, Mifsud contributes to shaping policies and practices related to accessibility. His influential presence in these forums underscores the need for collaboration among industries, governments, and advocacy groups to build an inclusive society that empowers all individuals. With his unwavering dedication and passion for accessibility, Steven Mifsud continues to be a leading voice for change, motivating others to prioritise inclusivity in their initiatives and workplaces.

Empowerment begins with belief in ourselves and in the potential for change. As we unite to advocate for accessibility, let us transform barriers into bridges, ensuring that every disabled person can fully realise their worth and potential. The current climate of disability advocacy in the UK is a testament to our collective strength; together, we can create a future where inclusivity is not just an ideal, but a shared reality for all.

Q&A

Steven Mifsud MBE
My advice to anyone starting their career, especially disabled people, is to embrace your uniqueness and never shy away from showcasing your talents. Your journey may be different, but it is rich with experiences that can inspire others. Advocate for yourself, seek out mentors, and remember that resilience and courage can turn obstacles into opportunities. Believe in your worth, for you have the power to create a future where your potential knows no limits.
My work has had a profound impact on the disabled community by advocating for accessibility and inclusivity on multiple fronts. Through my role as CEO of Direct Access, I’ve focused on breaking down barriers and creating meaningful job opportunities for disabled individuals. By employing a significant number of disabled people, we not only empower our workforce but also set an example for other organisations to follow. Additionally, my commitment to raising awareness about disability issues extends to the speaking engagements I undertake across various regions, including the US, UK, and the Middle East. In these forums, I strive to educate others about the challenges faced by disabled individuals and the importance of creating environments that cater to everyone’s needs. Through campaigns and initiatives, I aim to highlight the value of diversity and the unique perspectives that disabled people bring to the workplace and society at large. By sharing my personal journey and advocating for change, I hope to inspire others to take action, fostering a culture of understanding and inclusivity that empowers all members of the disabled community.
My future goals in disability advocacy are ambitious, yet deeply rooted in my commitment to creating a world where inclusivity is the norm, not the exception. I aspire to amplify the voices of disabled individuals globally, ensuring that their experiences and needs are central to the conversations around accessibility and inclusion. One of my key objectives is to collaborate with organisations and governments to develop comprehensive policies that remove barriers in workplaces, public spaces, and digital environments. I envision a future where every disabled person is not only represented but also empowered to thrive in their chosen fields. Additionally, I hope to expand the initiatives at Direct Access to create even more employment opportunities for disabled people, fostering an environment where talent knows no limitations. By leading workshops and training programmes, I aim to equip businesses with the tools and knowledge they need to support inclusivity effectively. Ultimately, my aspiration is to inspire a cultural shift that celebrates diversity in all its forms. I want to leave a legacy where inclusivity is woven into the fabric of society, allowing everyone, regardless of their abilities, to live, work, and contribute to their fullest potential. Together, we can build a future where accessibility is inherent in every aspect of life.
To switch off and have fun, I truly cherish the time I get to spend with my wife and our two young children, as well as my older two when I can. My career can be incredibly demanding, so when I do have free time, my wife takes the lead in planning our family activities. I happily follow her lead, whether it’s exploring new places, enjoying fun outings, or creating memorable moments at home together. Her enthusiasm and zest for life are infectious, and being involved in family adventures with our children brings me immense joy. It’s a wonderful balance; I get to relax while she brings our family time to life, and I’m perfectly happy to embrace that dynamic. Spending quality time with my wife and children not only helps me recharge but also deepens our family bond, making every moment feel incredibly special.
My wife and children – full stop, then its travel.
Always Dogs – but I’m a cat owner because my wife says we have to be.
If I could change one thing, it would be to eliminate the stigma and misconceptions surrounding disability in society. Despite the progress we have made in advocacy and awareness, there are still pervasive stereotypes and barriers that inhibit true inclusivity. I believe that by fostering a deeper understanding and acceptance of disabled individuals’ capabilities, we could create a more supportive and empowering environment. If people could see beyond the disability and recognise the potential and talent that resides within each person, we would pave the way for greater opportunities and integration. My hope is that, in the future, discussions around disability shift from one of limitation to one of empowerment, enabling everyone to thrive, contribute, and succeed in all aspects of life.
To improve the lives of disabled people, we must urgently address several key barriers: physical accessibility in public spaces and workplaces, the persistence of negative attitudes and misconceptions, and the ongoing challenges in securing meaningful employment. Digital accessibility is also critical as our world becomes increasingly online, ensuring that all individuals can participate fully in the digital age. Additionally, access to comprehensive healthcare and support services, along with inclusive education and training, are essential for empowering disabled individuals. By breaking down these barriers, we can create a society where disabled people are not only included but celebrated for their contributions.

Areas of expertise

Accessibility, Architecture, Business, Community, Disability Advocacy, Employment, Equality

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.

Request easy read version