Launch of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower for MIT & Unitec

An estimated 1.3 billion people experience some form of disability. This represents 16% of the world’s population or 1 in 6 of us.

For many, disability or chronic conditions are not visible and are acquired as we age.

These may be:

• Temporary, situational or permanent.
• Neurological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental.
• Physical, visual, auditory and including sensory & processing difficulties.
• Respiratory, rare diseases and chronic conditions such as asthma & diabetes.

It’s the largest minority group in the world and it’s one that any of us can find ourselves part of at any time. When someone has a non-visible condition it can be hard to know that they may need additional support when at work or study.

MIT and Unitec have a focus on fully supporting, celebrating and reflecting the diversity of our akōnga and kaimahi. As part of this commitment, we have recently joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme. This programme was created to encourage inclusivity, acceptance and understanding.

You can view more information about membership and how you can use this simple tool on our dedicated intranet page here.

It is a simple tool to create a more inclusive space. For akōnga and kaimahi, the Sunflower symbol can share a hidden disability voluntarily. For kaimahi, the Sunflower supporter lanyard signifies to others that you are an ally and safe person to talk to for support and guidance.

Details will be shared shortly but we will be celebrating our membership with a virtual launch event in late September.