By Taylor Anthony & Kennedi Hewitt
Medill Reports
BUENOS AIRES — Jeremías Gamarra was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease. This means his bones are fragile and break easily. As he got older, he began to navigate the various challenges and barriers that come with using a wheelchair in Buenos Aires. He also faced discrimination when applying for jobs. Today, he has found his place working at Accenture, which has helped him overcome social anxieties associated with his condition. His story is just one of many examples of not letting your disability define you.
Whether it is with an intellectual or physical disability, research has shown that professional work opportunities help to strengthen both social and motor skills. The nonprofit organization Loros Parlantes has given individuals with intellectual disabilities an opportunity to work in broadcast television, helping further promote their autonomy.
These stories are representative of individuals with disabilities in Argentina navigating the workforce.
Taylor Anthony and Kennedi Hewitt are video and broadcast graduate students at Medill. You can follow them on Twitter at @tayloranthonytv & @Kennedihewitt.
Reporting in Argentina was supported by Maggie Folcia.