SPEAKING
Delaina Parrish delivers a professional yet refreshingly intimate message of the positive societal and economic benefits of disability inclusion in all “walks” of life. A remarkable Gen Z’er with cerebral palsy and dysarthria (a speaking disorder), Ms. Parrish utilizes the latest in “eye gaze” augmentative communication to bring listeners into a world where disability is owned as an identity. Where tenacity demands change. Where education builds bridges rather than barriers.
Topics Covered
As a Spring 2020 Business School graduate from a Top 8 Public University amidst the pandemic, she is fully prepared to deliver a memorable virtual or future live talk on a variety of relevant topics. Each audience, whether a corporation, a non-profit, an educational entity, or the individual, will be treated to a remarkable journey of determination and hope, just when the world needs it most.
Understanding the $504B spending power of PWDs and how it’s changing the marketing landscape in the adaptive fashion and beauty industries
Modeling on the runway in NYC for an international brand
Implementing Thought Leadership practices of inclusion for PWD
Educating about Equal vs equitable barriers + opportunities within higher education and employment
Gaining more independence through major life transitions, in therapy and education
Embracing the art of communication with Alternative and Augmentative Technology
Leveraging the Entrepreneurial spirit/mindset to shift perspectives on inclusion
Inspiring journey of courage and faith through major obstacles
Businesses need us, schools need us, society needs us. Most of all, we need each other!
SPEAKING
Delaina Parrish delivers a professional yet refreshingly intimate message of the positive societal and economic benefits of disability inclusion in all “walks” of life. A remarkable Gen Z’er with cerebral palsy and dysarthria (a speaking disorder), Ms. Parrish utilizes the latest in “eye gaze” augmentative communication to bring listeners into a world where disability is owned as an identity. Where tenacity demands change. Where education builds bridges rather than barriers.
Topics Covered
As a Spring 2020 Business School graduate from a Top 8 Public University amidst the pandemic, she is fully prepared to deliver a memorable virtual or future live talk on a variety of relevant topics. Each audience, whether a corporation, a non-profit, an educational entity, or the individual, will be treated to a remarkable journey of determination and hope, just when the world needs it most.
Understanding the $504B spending power of PWDs and how it’s changing the marketing landscape in the adaptive fashion and beauty industries
Modeling on the runway in NYC for an international brand
Implementing Thought Leadership practices of inclusion for PWD
Educating about Equal vs equitable barriers + opportunities within higher education and employment
Gaining more independence through major life transitions, in therapy and education
Embracing the art of communication with Alternative and Augmentative Technology
Leveraging the Entrepreneurial spirit/mindset to shift perspectives on inclusion
Inspiring journey of courage and faith through major obstacles
Businesses need us, schools need us, society needs us. Most of all, we need each other!
ignite
change
IGNITE
CHANGE
My time getting to know Delaina as a Best Buddies alumni, a fierce advocate, a storyteller and a friend has sincerely been a career highlight. Delaina’s tenacity, whit, intelligence and humor pours out in every conversation. She has the most organic way of getting me “fired up” about disability rights but, one should note, Delaina certainly isn’t all talk. She takes action to right the disparities that keep people with disabilities from achieving gainful employment outcomes. Her voice has become a powerful tool within spaces where decision makers sit. She’s shifting mindsets and challenging the status quo and does so fearlessly and without reservation, for she understands the impact of inaction: a world in which people with disabilities continue to go unheard and unseen…not on Delaina’s watch! I’m so proud of Delaina’s many accomplishments to date but, I’m most proud to call Delaina friend.
Speaking & Collaborations
Voice of America
Philanthropic Educational Organization
Official University of FL Ambassadors
Christian Radio
Speaking & Collaborations
Voice of America
Official University of FL Ambassadors
Philanthropic Educational Organization
Christian Radio
Why Businesses Must Be Fearless With Disability Inclusion | Delaina Parrish | TEDxUF
To increase the employment of college graduates with disabilities, there needs to be a collaborative effort. Delaina Parrish calls on college students, campus recruiters, and employers to share the message alongside her that diversity inclusion is also disability inclusion.
Why Businesses Must Be Fearless With Disability Inclusion | Delaina Parrish | TEDxUF
To increase the employment of college graduates with disabilities, there needs to be a collaborative effort. Delaina Parrish calls on college students, campus recruiters, and employers to share the message alongside her that diversity inclusion is also disability inclusion.
Recent & Upcoming Engagements
MEDIA FEATURES
The Future of Now 2020 Crystal Ball Predictions Part 4
If you’re hoping to gaze into a crystal ball to see what 2020 holds for your company, your industry and the world, we’ve got the next best thing. Live today, January 8 and on January 15, 2020 – and on-demand from December 4, 11 and 18, 2019 – we’re bringing you predictions from 60 thought leaders covering the exciting technologies. READ MORE
“Tech Goes To College: Opening Doors for Unique-Ability Students.”
The Buzz: “The transition from high school to college life is difficult enough for any number of students without considering a disability” (edsmart.org). Bryan Stromer describes Cerebral Palsy as a part of his identity: “If someone has already written me off because of the way I walk, it gives me the opportunity to prove them wrong and exceed their expectations, while also hopefully redefining how they think about disability” (forbes.com). The Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973…many college campuses began to rethink their facilities…powered accessible doors, wheelchair ramps and elevators in all multi floor buildings” (collegechoice.net).READ MORE
As a young woman with a disability, I have a slightly different perspective on independence and what it means to me. For most of my life, my parents, therapists, and doctors have played a substantial role in my decision making. As I grew up, I came to realize that I wouldn’t be fully “independent” and would always need assistance for daily living routines. That meant I would have to learn to speak up for myself and advocate for my own decisions…. READ MORE
‘It’s always been a part of me’: UF students with disabilities
“Living to the best of our abilities without fear of failure can take us to our dream destinations,” Parrish said. “I’m not sure where all this will lead me, but I do believe you and I can make a difference in the world if we try.” READ MORE
“Teen Fashionista focuses on Adaptive Design”
Read Delaina’s first published article and how she formed a passion for the fashion industry in high school. Her personal experiences in adaptive design led to collaborations in NYC with numerous industry professionals. These relationships have provided her with the knowledge and network to transition to the business side of fashion. READ MORE
“Becoming Fearlessly Independent!”
Listen to Delaina’s keynote address for the Florida Occupational Therapy Association’s statewide conference! She shared the story of how therapy has played a critical role in her life. READ MORE
“I have had the pleasure of knowing, teaching, and hosting Delaina Parrish through my time with the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center at the University of Florida. As a successful entrepreneurial alumnus, Delaina has had the opportunity to speak with students in my courses and has always done a phenomenal job. Her discussions are always informative, inspiring and empowering for all of the audience members and myself included. I can’t say enough about the impact she leaves on students through these engagements!
“Delaina was the keynote speaker at the Florida Occupational Therapy Association’s Annual Conference. She held the attention of the entire audience from the moment she appeared on stage. Delaina has a great sense of self as well as a sense of humor. She is strong and is able to use her voice to speak up for those who cannot. Delaina spoke to our group about accomplishing dreams, overcoming barriers, and being fearless. She was funny, inspiring, and engaging. As occupational therapy practitioners, we often work alongside our clients without truly knowing what their future holds. Delaina was able to remind us to never stop supporting our clients in whatever path they choose, because accomplishments are theirs for the taking. Thank you Delaina for a tremendous keynote!”
“It’s rare that you come across a young person like Delaina Parrish! Delaina was my student at the University of Florida and she now frequently presents in my course, Exceptional People: School and Society. In her own unique and uplifting way, Delaina shares about her life, her accomplishments, and her challenges. My students frequently name Delaina’s presentation as the single most influential portion of the course! It is impossible to hear her speak and not reflect on your own preconceived ideas of disability. I am in awe of Delaina’s accomplishments and her genuine desire to advocate for and improve the lives of others with disabilities.”
“Reading the keynote synopsis and bios of the Fearless Independence trio single-handedly proved to be my deciding factor in flying cross-country to attend the International Hippotherapy Biennial Conference. Their dynamic presentation as well as my one-on-one interaction with each speaker remains the highlight of my entire trip. Their journey, marked by resilience, determination, and fearless independence resonated deeply with everyone in attendance. Their ability to transcend limitations, overcome discrimination, and showcase the possibilities beyond societal expectations is truly remarkable. It is a testament to their combined strength, courage, and unwavering spirits.
Their united message complemented by personal anecdotes extends far beyond mere inspiration; it is a call to action for therapists to more deeply listen, understand and be led by the goals and dreams of their clients and to see beyond the limitations that society may impose on individuals with disabilities and to stand with families and caregivers as advocates for what is possible for our clients.
Through storytelling and thought leadership, Ali, Delaina, and Tricia, have not only enriched the lives of those present but also, illuminated the path for therapists to better understand the potential of clients. Modeling by example, they serve as a guiding light, reminding professionals what is possible.”
“Delaina’s delivery addressed all aspects that families must now consider when selecting post-secondary outcomes for their child. Delaina is not only confident and professional, but she is gracious, warm, and open to discussing her story to help others with self-advocacy and self-determinat ion. She is a role model and trail blazer for individuals interested in pursuing a meaningful and fulfilling future.”
“Delaina Parrish is a remarkable woman. I have known her since she was a little girl and even then her determination to make a difference in her generation was evident. She is making that difference now, inspiring both fully-able and differently-abled to use everything God has given them to be a force for good in the world, solving real human problems in profound ways. A little while ago, Delaina spent some time in Tallahassee, addressing the Deer Lake United Methodist Church. For our church, she was able to call us all to cherish the gifts God has given us and use them passionately.
As I said, Delaina is a remarkable woman. I encourage you to get to know her story and know her. She will inspire you and challenge you to look at yourself and others differently.”