Creative Enterprise Centre and National Student Pride host event about being LGBT+ and disabled

The event marked the London premiere of the documentary short ‘Kris: The Power of Support’, a film that explores the intersectionality of sexuality and disability, produced by University of Westminster alumnus Jamie Wareham. 

The documentary follows Kris and his husband as they prepare with the participants of their Wheely Fitness Class to go to the Superhero ParaThriathlon. Kris’s mission is to help others find empowerment in their disabilities through taking them to his all access, disability friendly fitness class. 

The film screening was followed by a panel discussion hosted by Jamie Wareham, talking to Callum Dziedzic and Char Bailey about being disabled and LGBT+, considering aspects such as hidden disabilities, access, perceptions on ability and support in relationships.

Callum is a script editor working in TV drama who has developed multiple productions, including for Netflix and BBC Two. He was born with Tetraplegic Cerebal Palsy and uses a manual wheelchair for mobility. To him, the act of storytelling is intrinsically inclusive and universal. Char Bailey is a celebrity life coach, acclaimed writer and speaker. As a black, lesbian and autistic woman, she is the co-host of the Qmmunity podcast and wellbeing ambassador for UK Black Pride.

The panel discussion was followed by networking with attendees and panellists.

Talking about the event, Creative Enterprise Centre Manager Sheila Birungi said: “It was great to collaborate with alumnus Jamie Wareham to produce ‘Access All Rainbows’, an event highlighting the intersectionality of being disabled and LGBT+. 

“The event fostered open and meaningful conversations on the importance of diversity, intersectionality, perceptions of disability, hidden disabilities and mental health. The event furthers the CEC mission to advocate for diversity and inclusion in all industries – through collaboration with students, graduates and industry.”