Meet Debra Ruh

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Debra Ruh. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Debra below.

Debra , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
As Debra Ruh, my journey to find my purpose in advocating for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities was deeply personal. It all began with my daughter, Sara, who was born with Down syndrome. Sara taught me firsthand the misconceptions and underestimations people with disabilities face. Witnessing the challenges and barriers she encountered, I was motivated to change the narrative surrounding disability.

I started advocating for inclusive practices in schools and workplaces, driven by the firm belief that people with disabilities possess unique skills and contributions. This advocacy wasn’t just about my daughter; it was about all individuals who are often overlooked and undervalued because of their disabilities.

My mission grew as I became a global disability inclusion strategist. I worked with corporations, governments, and non-profits around the world, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and accessibility. It was during this phase of my work that Billion Strong (www.billion-strong.org) was born—an identity and empowerment organization designed to bring the over one billion people with disabilities globally together. We use the hashtag #WeAreBillionStrong to unify our voices and highlight our collective strength and presence.

This journey was more than a career; it was a calling. It stemmed from my experience as a mother and evolved into a global movement. By acknowledging and valuing each person’s humanity and potential, regardless of their abilities, we enrich not just individual lives, but society as a whole. My purpose is to ensure that this message of inclusion and empowerment resonates across the world.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
As Debra Ruh, I am the founder of Ruh Global IMPACT and Billion Strong, two initiatives close to my heart that reflect my commitment to empowering people with disabilities.

Ruh Global IMPACT, found at ruhglobal.com, is an international consulting firm focusing on global disability inclusion and digital accessibility. This organization stemmed from my belief in the untapped potential within the disability community and the necessity of creating inclusive, accessible environments in all aspects of society. Our mission is to help corporations, governments, and other organizations to understand the importance and benefits of embracing inclusivity and accessibility.

Billion Strong, an identity and empowerment organization designed to bring together the over one billion people with disabilities worldwide, was born out of a need for unity and visibility. Through our website www.billion-strong.org and the hashtag #WeAreBillionStrong, we aim to create a global community where people with disabilities can find solidarity, share their stories, and celebrate their identities. This unity is crucial because it not only empowers individuals within the community but also showcases our collective strength to society.

The core reason why our community must convene and become discoverable is empowerment. By coming together, we not only support each other but also educate and inform the broader society about the capabilities, needs, and rights of people with disabilities. It’s about changing narratives and challenging stereotypes, showing the world that inclusion benefits everyone. Through Ruh Global IMPACT and Billion Strong, we are building a platform for voices that need to be heard, for stories that need to be told, and for a movement that redefines what it means to be accessible and inclusive in today’s world.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, there are three key qualities and areas of knowledge that have been instrumental in my success, particularly in the context of championing disability inclusion and global collaboration.

1. Empathy and Global Perspective: Understanding the diverse experiences of people around the world, especially those with disabilities, has been crucial. It’s not just about solving problems within our own borders but realizing that our actions and advocacy have a global impact. Embracing a worldview that includes empathy for others’ challenges and situations has allowed me to make more meaningful contributions. For those starting out, I’d advise actively seeking to understand different perspectives, be it through travel, literature, or engaging in conversations with a diverse range of people.
2. Collaboration and Networking: The realization that no single person or entity can solve complex global issues alone has been a game-changer. Building networks and collaborating across sectors – including governments, businesses, NGOs, and the disability community – amplifies our efforts. I encourage those at the beginning of their journey to prioritize building a diverse and supportive network. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t hesitate to reach out to people whose work inspires you.
3. Commitment to Sustainable Development and Inclusive Technology: Aligning my work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), and focusing on AI4Good, Tech4Good, and Tech4All, has been fundamental. This alignment ensures that the work contributes to broader global goals. Understanding and leveraging technology for inclusivity, especially AI, is crucial. For newcomers, gaining knowledge in these areas and understanding how technology can be used responsibly and inclusively to benefit all is key.

To develop these areas, I recommend immersing oneself in relevant literature, attending workshops and conferences, and following thought leaders in these fields. Engage with global communities online and offline, and don’t be afraid to start projects or initiatives that align with these themes. Remember, every big journey begins with small steps – be patient and persistent.

What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
From my perspective, as the passionate advocate and activist behind Billion Strong and someone deeply committed to the cause of global disability inclusion, I often face the challenge of funding our initiatives. Despite society’s awareness of the need for inclusivity, there’s a lingering skepticism about the feasibility of creating a global, discoverable community for people with disabilities. However, I firmly believe in the possibility and necessity of this endeavor.

Billion Strong is an identity and empowerment organization specifically designed to unite the over one billion people with disabilities worldwide. We aim to foster an environment where every individual can proudly embrace their identity and advocate for their rights. Our efforts are rooted in the belief that a grassroots approach to inclusion and identity is the only way forward.

To those who question its feasibility, I say this: Change often starts with what seems impossible. It begins with a vision, grows with collective effort, and becomes reality through persistence and belief. Billion Strong is more than a concept; it’s a movement—a call to action for global solidarity and inclusion.

We need funders who share our vision and understand the impact of empowering over a billion lives. Your support can help make our global community not just a possibility, but a vibrant reality. Join us in this journey. Follow, engage, and support Billion Strong. Be a part of the change and help us in making our community not only discoverable but also strong and influential.

Use our hashtag #WeAreBillionStrong to spread the word, share our story, and invite others to join this transformative movement. Together, we can break barriers and build a world where everyone is recognized for their abilities and potential. Join us, engage with us, and fund us. Let’s make the impossible possible.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
All are Mine. Debra Ruh

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Productivity
Where do you get your work ethic from?

We’ve all heard the phrase “work hard, play hard,” but where does our work ethic

Productivity
Tactics & Strategies for Keeping Your Creativity Strong

With the rapid improvements in AI, it’s more important than ever to keep your creativity

Productivity
From Burnout to Balance: The Role of Self-Care

Burning out is one of the primary risks you face as you work towards your