An Interview With Veronica by Erin Givler

Veronica is a natural storyteller. Where others would find it easy to dwell on the hardships they have faced, she chooses to recognize difficulties, and in a way, accept them for the growth they provide in her life. “I want to inspire people to know that in life they need to struggle. I don’t give up. They don’t need to give up in life,” Veronica says. She uses this mindset to give back in the Northwest region of Cameroon, and reminds us all of the important work we need to be doing in our own communities as well.

Born with a deformity in her foot, known as clubfoot, Veronica has faced adversity from a young age. Her community and even her family viewed her as an outcast because of it. “It’s all about discrimination. It’s all about marginalization,” Veronica states. She also emphasizes that those with disabilities are constantly challenged with attitudinal barriers and lack access to the same opportunities that those without disabilities have.

Despite the hardships she has faced, today, Veronica chooses to be a gender and disability advocate in her community as she continues to overcome the difficulties in her life and empower those like her. She is the founder of the Community Association for Vulnerable Persons in Cameroon, as she advocates for rights for women and girls with disabilities, as well as the inclusion of them in development work in their communities. Veronica also helps to highlight the presence of intersectionality. “It is even worse for us who are women with disabilities,” especially when it comes to gaining leadership positions, acquiring access to empowering opportunities, and having voices in their communities.

While Veronica is working to shift this narrative, the conflict in Cameroon has only exacerbated the difficulties in lifting up the women and girls around her who have disabilities. It has become even harder to manage her organization and reach those who are most vulnerable and truly need her help.

Veronica sees a future where all women with disabilities are able to contribute in their communities, be decision makers, and influence peace. Veronica recognizes that peace comes first from within and the process to peace starts with empowering individuals- this includes all women and those with disabilities. This is crucial in Cameroon, where Veronica is making change, but also in every community around the world, even where the work is yet to begin.