A huge congratulations are in order to our Leaders from the Dimensions Leaders List Awards and to our finalists – you should be so proud of yourselves.
Both Rory and the MacIntyre Dancers have been made Leaders in their respective categories. Rory for his outstanding contribution to Work and Education and the MacIntyre Dancers for continuing to challenge expectations in Sports, Art and Entertainment.
You can find more each about the finalists here.
Rory is a young man whose story is as remarkable as he is – overcoming redundancy from his job at Debenhams to starting up his own cycling social in lockdown and becoming a speaker at various events, conferences and groups, to address issues in mental health. Rory continues to inspire people and champion change within the community.
Great Communities manager, Peter Connor, who works with Rory, said:
I don't think he understands the impact that he’s having on people, and connecting with everyone. It’s making people's lives better, and helping to give other people that sense of purpose.
But there’s little time to relax and enjoy the celebrations, and it’s already onto the next project. He added:
We've recently gone to a local church and tidied up the area and we put a new tree in; and, you know, this tree will be there long after we've gone, it's a really good way to actively connect with the community and have a lasting impact. We are really changing the community for the better and also make it more accessible for everyone.
Well done Rory!
We’re also delighted to share that the MacIntyre Dancers have also been made Leaders.
The MacIntyre Dancers worked together to create a welcoming and inclusive dance environment where everyone can dance, communicate and engage freely.
As well as highlighting the physical, social and emotional benefits of dance, they’re also challenging conventions. Go Dancers!
Here is the moment they found out the news:
Anita Taylor, who manages the MacIntyre Dancers and the Easy Read Checkers and Advisors said:
I don’t have words of how proud I am of everyone; it’s the first time I’m genuinely speechless.
From the moment they stepped on stage, nerves settled and you can see how they just connect with each other and just show this passion. The confidence they show is amazing and really show that disability doesn’t define them.
I’m so proud of every single Dancer, because of how much they are achieving. They want the younger generation to see and be inspired to pick up their [the Dancers] dreams.
Be who you want to be, do what you want to do and don’t let people define you. There is no disability, only ability.'
Well done once again to our finalists and Leaders!
