28/09/2026
โWhat if the greatest measure of inclusion is not how we speak about people with disabilities, but how much room we create for them to participate, thrive and lead?
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โWith more than 14 years of professional experience in special education and disability inclusion, this weekโs Member Crush Monday introduces a passionate humanitarian and nonprofit leader whose work is helping children and adults with disabilities find not only support, but opportunities.
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โSekinat Hammed Afolashade is the Founder and Chief Responsibility Officer of the Network for Inclusion of People with Special Needs (NIPSN) -
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โFor Sekinat, The Inclusive Journey began in 2012, with a burning passion for special education which later led to a career in caregiving and special education.
โIn 2019, that passion evolved into NIPSN, an organisation created to provide practical support and opportunities for persons with disabilities.
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โSince then, NIPSNโs interventions have touched different areas, including shelter, inclusive education, rehabilitation, vocational training, empowerment, sports, counselling, advocacy and social inclusion.
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โThrough vocational and digital skills programmes, beneficiaries have gained practical skills in tailoring, hairdressing, soap making, tie-dye and computer skills, helping them build confidence, independence and pathways toward greater participation in society.
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โOne of NIPSNโs most distinctive interventions is its commitment to - inclusive sports.
โSince 2024, an annual disability-inclusive sports programme has created opportunities for children and adults with disabilities to participate, compete, build friendships and demonstrate their abilities.
โPart of the interventions also extends to women with disabilities, who have been receiving monthly food and financial support since 2024.
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โAs the General Secretary of the Association of Carers of Persons with Disability, a position she has held since 2022, Sekinat Hammed Afolashadeโs commitment to service extends beyond her organisational leadership. Through community and media engagements, she raises awareness and advocates for the rights of persons with disabilities, championing inclusive education, accessibility and equal opportunities.
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โHer Philosophy is built on the possibility that โDisability is not a barrier.
โI believe that every person deserves dignity, opportunity, love and the chance to reach their full potential. Disability should never be a barrier to education, participation, employment, sports, leadership or meaningful contribution to society. I believe that meaningful change begins with compassion, inclusion and the willingness to act. My greatest joy is seeing someone who was once considered incapable discover their abilities, gain confidence, develop independence and realize their full potential."
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โSekinat Hammed Afolashade holds an Associate of Arts/NCE and a B.Sc./B.Ed., both in Special Education from the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, and the University of Ibadan, respectively. She is currently pursuing a Masterโs Degree in Public Administration.
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โOn this week's Member Crush Monday Publication, NNNGO celebrates a disability advocate and educator who's turning "inaction into action."
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