Jawonio Cheers for ESPY Winner Hannah Smith!
“I wanted to make a project for people with disabilities, for young people with disabilities and people who are newly injured. My hope is that as See it, Be It grows, they will be able to scroll and scroll and scroll to see all the opportunities available to them.”
Hannah Smith
VCU Health in Richmond, Virginia, recently highlighted a remarkable story: a young patient named Hannah Smith, a wheelchair user with spina bifida, sharing a common thread with tennis legend Billie Jean King – a passion for sports and a drive to make a positive impact. This powerful combination has earned Hannah a prestigious ESPY Award: the Billie Jean King Youth Leadership Award, which you can watch tonight at 8pm on ESPN3 or ABC. (ESPY stands for Excellence in Sports Yearly Award)
Hannah’s story begins on the basketball court. Despite her physical limitations, she fell in love with the sport at a young age. This passion ignited a fire within her, a fire that wouldn’t be extinguished by the challenges she faced. Hannah channeled her love of sports and her desire to empower others into a powerful social media campaign: “See It Be It.” This initiative tackles the crucial issue of representation for people with disabilities.
Here's why "See It Be It" resonates so deeply with us at Jawonio:
The campaign dismantles stereotypes by showcasing stories of individuals with disabilities succeeding in various fields – sports, careers, even everyday adventures. Through these narratives, “See It Be It” emphasizes that disability does not define potential. Hannah has fostered a thriving online space where people with disabilities connect, find inspiration, and see themselves reflected in positive stories. This sense of belonging is crucial for breaking down isolation and fostering a more inclusive online environment. This focus on visibility breaks down barriers and empowers individuals with disabilities to dream big and chase their goals. By seeing others with disabilities achieve success, viewers are inspired to believe in their own capabilities.
Jawonio strives to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Hannah’s journey is a powerful reminder that with passion, creativity, and a supportive community, anything is possible. It serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for everyone at Jawonio.
Congratulations, Hannah!
As you take the stage to receive the ESPY Award, we at Jawonio celebrate your remarkable accomplishments. Your story embodies the transformative power of social media and the unwavering spirit of those who dare to dream big. “See It Be It” is a testament to the potential within each of us.
Find the See It Be It Community Here: www.instagram.com/theseeit.beitproject/
