“Magical Advocacy”

True Tales by Disability Advocates

In this episode, we highlight storytellers who are practitioners of this “Magical Advocacy.” The tools these practitioners use are, being clear about what you are asking for, knowing why you’re asking and connecting with people by using personal stories to put a human face on the issue. In her story “Wand Quest”, Jessica Guerrero invokes her advocacy skills to manifest a long held dream. Our second story “First Impressions” by Nissi Salazar shows the strength of her magical power to break down barriers comes from her passion for adventure, her commitment to Universal Love and her faith.

“Wand Quest” - Jessica Guerrero, has lived independently in Austin for around 10 years and has been with the Speaking Advocates program from its very first class. She told us, “I have a mild case of cerebral palsy but my wheelchair has opened the door to cosplay, martial arts, travelling, adaptive sports and so many other adventures.” She also really enjoys helping out in the community. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimotion159/. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.guerrero.1441

Host: Brittany Sessum is a Houston native and Army veteran that loves making connections with others. She has a passion to serve her family, the community, and her country by giving back in any capacity. She believes that her passions and actions live beyond herself. Brittany loves writing poetry, reading, traveling, and working as an entrepreneur.

“First Impressions” - Nissi Salazar: Nissi Salazar has lived her life in a wheelchair. Nevertheless cerebral palsy and the confinement of her chair cannot keep her from living! Her sassy and adventurous spirit gives her the drive to go beyond what is the norm for someone with her limitations. In fact, Nissi has made a career in proving that with a little help you can achieve anything.

She comes from a loud and loving family. One of four children to two hard-working Colombian immigrants. She’s lived in the front porch of the Texas Hill country most of her life. Both of her parents are big dreamers and have encouraged their children to dream big as well! https://www.nissisalazar.com/, Buy Nissi’s book A Paradox Of Victory, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nissis1/

Host Kamand Alaghehband: Kamand Alaghehband was born in Austin, TX and has autism. In 2020, The CDC reported approximately 1 in 54 children in the U.S. diagnosed with autism. This ratio is more than all cancer patients combined. Kamand has spent her life supporting all generations with disabilities. Kamand loves the Special Olympics and her favorite sports are swimming, basketball, and track. Kamand is a member of the executive committee of Special Olympics Athletes Leadership in Texas.She has created podcasts, Tik Tok videos, video games, and a variety of health activities during the pandemic to keep the athlete’s mind occupied in a healthy way. Kamand’s mission within her population is to bring peace today and create a vision for tomorrow’s disable population. Kamand hopes that she’ll be able to teach others to turn denial into acceptance. Watch Kamand’s Special Olympics healthy lifestyle videos on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mespecial8588

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