Barkuma’s first board observer Gavin Partridge shares what the role means to him
Recently, Barkuma had the pleasure of interviewing Gavin, the first participant in the Board Observership Program at Barkuma. This initiative aims to develop governance skills among individuals with disabilities, enabling their participation in high-level decision-making within organisations. The 10-month program provides a hands-on experience for Gavin as he observes and engages in Board and Subcommittee meetings focused on strategic issues in the disability sector. Gavin will also receive tailored training through the Boardwise platform, covering essential governance topics, risk management, and cybersecurity.
A Desire to Learn and Make a Difference
Gavin’s motivation for joining the Board Observership Program stems from a deep desire to understand the disability sector better and learn how significant decisions are made. He emphasised the importance of implementing these decisions at a grassroots level to enhance participant support. “It’s about making decisions centred around the clients we work with,” he explained, highlighting the need for inclusivity in the decision-making process.
Aspiring Leadership Skills
When asked what he hopes to achieve through the program, Gavin mentioned that he aims to enhance his leadership skills further. He sees these skills as integral not only to his personal growth but also as a means to provide better support for individuals with disabilities. Gavin expressed a sense of accountability: “When you’re in a position to lead, you want to make the right decisions.”
Bridging Perspectives
Gavin believes that his unique experiences as both a support worker and an employee allow him to bring valuable insights to the board meetings. He aims to listen, learn, and contribute ideas that can help shape effective policies and practices within Barkuma. His perspective from “both sides of the fence” gives him a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities present in the disability sector.
Looking to the Future
Gavin is particularly excited about the training provided by Barkuma, especially in understanding cybersecurity and the evolving digital landscape. He recognises the growing role of AI and technology in the sector and is keen on learning how to leverage these tools ethically and effectively.
After completing the program, Gavin hopes to further engage in disability advocacy, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have a voice in political conversations. His goal is to keep stakeholders accountable and push for meaningful changes that benefit the community.
Creating an Inclusive Environment
When discussing the importance of inclusivity, Gavin shared his belief that it’s crucial for people with disabilities to participate in decision-making processes. “For too long, decisions were made by those without lived experience,” he noted. In his view, everyone deserves the chance to contribute to discussions that affect their lives.
Moreover, Gavin is committed to fostering an open and constructive environment in board meetings. He envisions a space where diverse opinions are encouraged, and everyone feels heard. “It’s about helping people have an open mind and understanding how the board process works,” he said.
Gavin’s insights remind us that the journey towards inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities is ongoing and ever-evolving. His passion for leadership and advocacy drives him to make a difference, one step at a time. As we continue to learn from voices like Gavin’s, we move closer to a more inclusive and understanding society.