Renowned disability inclusion and accessibility advocate Shani Dhanda, a distinguished graduate of the University of Wolverhampton, has been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate of Social Sciences in recognition of her tireless dedication to fostering inclusivity and accessibility.
The University of Wolverhampton bestows honorary awards upon individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their respective fields. Shani Dhanda, an influential figure in the realm of disability inclusion, social entrepreneurship, and broadcasting, has been acknowledged as a leading voice in the disability inclusion movement. She was also recognised as the BBC’s 100 Women Laureate in 2020.
Shani’s advocacy spans multiple fronts as she endeavours to empower businesses and brands to create more inclusive and accessible environments, with a particular focus on disabled people. Her intersectional activism, as a South Asian woman who herself experiences disability, drives her commitment to global social equity through entrepreneurial initiatives.
Shani Dhanda is the visionary behind initiatives such as Diversability, the Asian Woman Festival, and the Asian Disability Network, all aimed at advancing inclusivity and awareness. In addition to her advocacy work, she serves as a prominent broadcaster on daytime television programs, educating and inspiring diverse audiences with her wealth of knowledge and experience.
Accumulating more than twenty-five prestigious honours and awards, Shani Dhanda has solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in the fields of inclusion and activism. Her unwavering dedication continues to inspire, cementing her status as one of the most influential figures shaping a more equitable future.
Expressing her gratitude, Shani commented, “I am deeply honoured to receive this honorary doctorate from the University of Wolverhampton, an institution that has not only played a pivotal role in shaping my educational journey but has also significantly contributed to my personal growth, professional achievements, and lifelong learning. The University’s commitment to Inclusion, Innovation, and Impact closely aligns with my own values. This recognition underscores our shared vision of education as a potent catalyst for change, working toward a world that is genuinely inclusive and accessible for all.”
The University’s graduation ceremonies take place at the Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton, from Thursday 14 September to Friday 22 September 2023.
Find out more about Shani at her website https://www.shanidhanda.com/.
Connect with Shani via social media: LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook and YouTube.
