Author: Mohamed Maalim – PhD Researcher at the ALL Institute, Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, and Senior Occupational Therapist and Project Lead, Digital Assistive Technology at Stewartscare
Research Stream: Lived Experience
A pivotal milestone in the calendar approaches as we come to the end of November. An occasion meriting grand celebration – the ALL Institute marks its sixth anniversary, a landmark that coincides with the 3rd anniversary of its stirring initiative, the ‘Ideas in All’ Blog. As a former editorial team member, I was asked to reflect upon my association with the institute and share insights into my enduring journey with the ALL Institute and the ‘Ideas in All’ Blog.
I joined the ALL Institute, drawn in by its ethos of ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the support and opportunity to participate fully throughout their lives. This ethos was further embodied through the blog, focusing on inclusivity, accessibility, diversity, and participation.
The goals of the blog and the institute perfectly complemented each other, serving as the ethos that guided me throughout my tenure. Under the distinctive mentorship of the co-directors of the ALL Institute, I was greeted with a wealth of opportunities that allowed me to delve deep into a myriad of research disciplines. From exploring Assistive Technology to broader, more complex themes such as health disparities, digital accessibility, and policy design, my worldviews were reshaped, and my professional growth was duly influenced.
One aspect of the ALL Institute which significantly impacted my journey was its unwavering dedication towards evidence-based decision-making and inventive approaches to problem-solving. This commitment left its mark on the nature and trajectory of my inquiries, making my research work not just an academic pursuit but a transformational endeavour aimed at global societal change. Additionally, the experience of working within the diverse and dynamic environments of the ‘Ideas in All’ Blog and the ALL Institute proved immensely enriching. Every group meeting became a symposium of vibrant intellects, fuelling my curiosity and broadening my perspectives. Presenting work on international platforms and contributing to high-profile academic journals further cemented my convictions in the institute’s mission. Today, as we approach this double anniversary, I am filled with pride and anticipation. We are collectively aware of our work’s monumental potential, which seeps beyond the boundaries of academia and has the power to permeate various sectors of society, inciting change on a vast scale. At its core, our work is transformational, purposed to drive dialogue and influence practices.
For the part dedicated to my reflections on the ‘Ideas in All’ Blog, my memories took me back to the energetic brainstorming sessions where we sought to delineate the purpose and voice of the blog. We aimed to amplify the institute’s propositions of inclusivity, accessibility, diversification, and active participation by offering a platform that staged candid dialogues, discourses, and debates on relevant societal challenges. Being a pioneer editor of the blog was both an honour and a humongous responsibility. As we curated, edited, and published the experiences and thoughts of contributors, the blog gradually became a mirror that reflected the essence of the ALL Institute. However, it was not just limited to echoing the institute’s ethos; it grew to become a powerful platform that hosted many voices and perspectives from around the globe, enlightening readers and participants alike. Interestingly, the ‘Ideas in All’ Blog was not just an expression outlet for others; it also became a significant learning platform for me, offering unique perspectives and nuances I previously was oblivious to. Looking back at my contributed pieces for the Ideas in All Blog, the breadth of topics covered, from healthcare transformation to technology accessibility, manifests the multidimensional exploration facilitated by the ALL Institute.
Now shifting focus to my journey within the ALL Institute, I fondly recollect my initial days. The institute painted a picture of diversity in terms of its members and the multiplicity of research areas it catered to. My role flickered between investigator, ideator, problem-solver, and reformer as I delved into different projects. This flexibility of roles was a major contributor to my comprehensive learning experience. Under the ALL institute, my humble curiosities were ignited into passionate inquiries. The Institute allowed me to explore fascinating arenas like the value of Assistive Technology, the potential of Assistive Technology Passports, health disparity, digital accessibility, and policy designs. Moreover, the institute’s staunch commitment to evidence-based decision-making and creative problem-solving immeasurably shaped my research approach. The opportunities to present work at international platforms and contribute to high-profile academic journals further honed my skills and competence. These were not just achievements but memorable, career-altering experiences that testified to the ALL-Institute’s dedication to nurturing potential.
Relationships and collaborations forged within the ALL Institute added immense value to my journey. Working within a dynamic and diverse team, participation in group meetings (known as “In-groups”), and brainstorming sessions were unique experiences that amplified the collective passion for the institute’s mission and invigorated ongoing research activities. A sense of anticipation fills the air as we stand on the brink of the double anniversary. This milestone is not just a testament to our past work and successes but also a beacon heralding the immense potential future our work possesses. A future that can ignite the winds of change not confined to the academic community but has far-reaching consequences across different sectors of society. An overwhelming sense of pride does not simply colour today’s reflection in the body of work accomplished over the past six years. It is imbued with enormous respect for the institute’s members, collaborators, and the extraordinarily vibrant community who have lent their voices to the ‘Ideas in All’ Blog.
The journey chained in each passing year has been spectacular, rendering the institute and its blog as compelling catalysts of positive societal change. As the ALL Institute and the ‘Ideas in All’ Blog step into another year of existence, I look forward to the results of the currently ongoing work and to the innovative initiatives that will be conceived in the upcoming years. The past years have only bolstered my belief in the institute’s mission. I am confident that our work will continue influencing dialogues, inciting changes, and transforming practices globally. This moment, laden with reflections and memories, is also a powerful reminder of the invaluable role those initiatives like the ALL Institute and the ‘Ideas in All’ Blog play. They foster a symbiotic, enriching, and democratic environment, presenting an empowered response to societal challenges. This pursuit continues to resonate years down the line and galvanise action towards a more equitable world.
Finally, to anyone who has been a part of this journey or has watched from the sidelines, take immense pride in what we’ve achieved together. To those joining us going forward, may you find joy and fulfilment in contributing to this enduring cause. Above all, may the shared vision of the institute continue to inspire and guide us in the many exciting years to come. Here’s to many more years of transformative work and the continued pursuit of forging a world where everyone–irrespective of their circumstances–is fully supported and enabled to participate in life.
Happy 6th Anniversary to the ALL Institute and the 3rd anniversary of the ‘Ideas in All’ Blog!
Links below to all posts in this years symposium.
Around ALL in Seven Blog Posts…
Celebrating the Third Anniversary of the ‘Ideas in ALL Blog’ in the 2023 Winter Symposium; a Commentary from the Editorial Team
Building a Digitally Wealthy society with the support of the ALL Institute
Moving Forward to Have a More Inclusive Society
Developing the Campus as a Healthy Environment: The MU Healthy Campus Steering Group