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THE NEWS Priyanca Radhakrishnan Creating positive change. Since I took on the role of Minister for Disability Issues in late January, one of the words I’ve heard the most is – transformation. Transformation is needed because the status quo is disadvantaging disabled people, and because that’s unfair. I’m proud that we’ve started that transformation with the establishment of Whaikaha - the Ministry of Disabled People. I understand that it’s the first of its kind in the world. Paula Tesoriero is the first Chief Executive (CE) of Whaikaha and is disabled. This is our clear commitment to disabled people that we are serious about transformation. We established Whaikaha to work in partnership with the disability community, Māori and across government, to lead and influence changes that will create an inclusive society realising the rights of disabled people.  Transformation under way BY PRIYANCA RADHAKRISHNAN MINISTER FOR DISABILITY ISSUES Through Whaikaha, we are committed to the social model of disability, which recognises the barriers disabled people experience are caused not by their impairment or difference, but by howwe construct our society. My background prior to entering Parliament was in the social sector, helping migrant workers who were being exploited, and victims/ survivors of family violence. I ran a refuge in Tauranga before making the leap into politics, where I wanted to make change at the highest level – change that could benefit the lives of many. I am here because I want to bring about change for those whose voices are so often not heard at decision- making levels. It is a privilege to be the Minister for Disability Issues for that very reason. Since taking on the role, I’ve made a strong effort to listen, to meet disabled people, their whānau and organisations that support them to really get my head around the various issues and try and understand the diverse challenges and aspirations. I don’t have a disability myself and I am acutely aware of the value of change that is led by those with lived experience. I hope to be a strong ally, which means making space for considering the voices of disabled people and taking action to bring about change where possible. It speaks to the importance of the ‘nothing about us, without us’ approach. My closest experience to the disability community is watching my mother who had Parkinson’s and dementia, struggle with numerous societal barriers. I saw very quickly after her diagnosis, someone who had excelled in a society and in a system, being completely excluded from it. I am committed to doing what I can to contribute to creating a non-disabling society. The inequities facing disabled people are obvious. I have an opportunity now, as the Minister for Disability Issues, to play a role in creating positive change. I’m excited to continue the dialogue with the disability community so that I continue to learn from those with lived experience and so that we can make the changes that are needed together. Priyanca Radhakrishnan is the Minister for Disability Issues; Community and Voluntary Sector; Diversity, Inclusion and Ethnic Communities; Associate Minister of Social Development and Employment; and Associate Minister of Workplace Relations and Safety. Priyanca is also the MP for Maungakiekie, Auckland. World Cup Access If you’re thinking of heading along to a FIFA Womens World Cup match in July and August, check FIFA’s Accessibility Fan Guide. Organisers have put initiatives in place to make the tournament inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities. Go to www.tinyurl. com/2s4ze22n . 8 | THE REVIEW MAY–AUG 2023