Everyone at Ability Today and the Academy for Disabled Journalists (ADJ) is delighted to congratulate Jill Clark from Glasgow on successfully achieving her NCTJ Certificate in Foundation Journalism (CFJ).
Jill, who has Cerebral Palsy and communicates using a communication device, joined the Academy after hearing about the course through a friend who had previously completed the programme. Already a passionate campaigner for accessibility and the provision of Changing Places Toilets, Jill wanted to build on her experience as a blogger and campaigner by developing professional journalism skills.
Throughout the course, Jill successfully navigated the Academy’s online learning programme and completed her assessments with appropriate reasonable adjustments provided by the NCTJ. Her determination and commitment saw her overcome challenges to achieve her qualification.
Before joining the Academy, Jill said:
“The reason that I would love to do this course is I am very keen to go into journalism and I feel that this course will help me to start my journalism journey. As someone with a disability, I do a lot of campaigning, especially for Changing Places Toilets, and I have been writing blogs over the years. These gave me a little taste of journalism. I feel that journalism helps people understand things better. Everyone and everything has a story behind them and I would love to be the one who tells that story to the world. I think it would be great to have more disabled journalists like myself who use a communication device, making the journalism world more inclusive.”
Jill’s campaigning has already helped raise awareness of accessible toilet provision across Scotland and has led to interviews on Scottish television. Through her own blog, she continues to champion accessibility and disability rights.
Reflecting on completing the course, Jill said:
“I really wanted to go into journalism and when I found out there was a journalism course for disabled people I was delighted to take part. To be honest, it was a very difficult journey for myself, but I am so proud that I got through it and passed.”
Grant Logan, Founder of Ability Today and the Academy for Disabled Journalists, said:
“Jill’s achievement is a fantastic example of what can be accomplished when talent, determination and the right support come together. She has already demonstrated the power of using her own voice to campaign for positive change, and we hope this qualification gives her even more opportunities to tell important stories. We are incredibly proud of everything she has achieved and look forward to seeing where her journalism journey takes her next.”
Congratulations once again, Jill, from everyone at Ability Today and the Academy for Disabled Journalists. We wish you every success as you continue your journalism career.
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