About us

Our Journey

Since its inception, the foundation has successfully executed numerous projects across Nigeria, including: - Educational and literacy support at the School of the Deaf, Keffi, including an Art from Waste project that recycles plastic bottle waste into accessories.

- Empowerment programs in Mararaba, Zaria, and Abuja.
- Digital boot camps for skill development.
- Food distribution and empowerment programs in Mararaba, Zaria, and Abuja.
- Creation of libraries and donation of educational materials in Kano and Abuja.
- Annual events such as the Ramadan Relief Program, Youth Dialogues, and Disability TEA Parties.
- Skill training for persons with disabilities, including business management and digital marketing.
- ⁠Waste to Wealth - Entrepreneurial Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities

Our Vision

According to the World Bank, 15% of the global population experiences some form of disability, with higher prevalence in developing countries. In Nigeria, about 25 million people live with disabilities, and 3.6 million face significant functional difficulties. Our foundation aims to support at least 20% of this population, contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals by providing healthcare, education, empowerment and advocate for regular well-being checks.

Our Target

– Advocate for inclusive quality education and resilient infrastructure for persons with disabilities.
– Empowerment projects and literacy programs for persons with disabilities.
– Establish empowerment centers for skills development.
– Organize annual conferences, summits, and workshops.

ABOUT THE FOUNDER

Her name is Shamsiyyah Umar, she is the CEO/FOUNDER of We Are Special Foundation. She was born and brought up in Karu FCT Abuja, she is a writer and a young lady who has been living with disabilities since she was 12 years old. “In her words” Since I got an accident that placed me in a difficult situation, I got inspired to help people with disability because I knew what they felt and with every disability comes an ability or talent in a different way but only few of them get to explore these talents they have. I am someone who believes that everyone can actually live their dreams despite their circumstances or situation. I believe in strong heart, hard-work and dedication to become successful because I am still young and I fight to become a better leader.

World Disability Day

Observed every December 3rd, this UN-promoted day raises awareness about disability issues and promotes the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. It emphasizes the importance of integrating disabled individuals into all aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural life.

World Disability Day
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Concept Note

The foundation seeks sponsorship and partnerships with state governments, agencies, and international NGOs to support our activities, including advocacy, skill acquisition workshops, and educational conferences, aimed at celebrating and empowering disabled individuals.

Main Activities

 1. Advocacy on special abilities in key locations with high number of persons with disabilities.

 2. Skill acquisition workshops conducted by professionals, including potential grants and capital for participants.

 3. Conferences featuring speakers with disabilities sharing their experiences and inspiring attendees.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

We Are Special Foundation advocates for improved healthcare facilities and addresses stigmatization within the healthcare sector. We strive to ensure that people with disabilities receive respectful, quality healthcare, promoting their overall well-being.

Our foundation advocates for inclusive and quality education for persons with disabilities. Through educational support, literacy programs, and the provision of learning materials, we strive to ensure that everyone has access to education that is equitable and empowering.

We are committed to empowering women and girls with disabilities through specialized programs such as digital boot camps and business management training. Our initiatives aim to reduce gender disparities and promote equality in all aspects of life.

By providing skill acquisition programs and financial assistance, our foundation supports the economic empowerment of people with disabilities. We work to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to gainful employment and contribute to economic growth.

We combat marginalization and promote social inclusion for persons with disabilities. Our efforts are focused on reducing inequalities within and among communities, ensuring that everyone has a sense of belonging and equal opportunities.

Through projects like Art from Waste, which involves recycling plastic bottle waste into accessories,
And the waste to wealth (W2W) projects
we contribute to environmental sustainability. Our initiatives aim to raise awareness about climate change and promote actions that support a healthier planet.