obtained her degree and began working as a speech therapist . She started playing tennis professionally , and even represented her country , Chile , in two World Cups .
“ Being able to play a sport that I was passionate about and being able to do it professionally helped me to improve my independence every day and therefore it
was part of my rehabilitation . On the other hand , this made me realize that my disability was not an obstacle but an opportunity to do and value more the things that one does .”
After seven years of playing tennis professionally , Isabel married Max , and started a family . In 2018 , she joined Wheel the World as Product Manager and is currently a Senior Impact Manager .
“ Impact is an area that represents the essence of
Wheel the World . Through our partnership projects with various brands , we improve accessibility , knowledge , and education around inclusion . We also give people with disabilities the opportunity to travel and explore the world without limits . Like each area within the company , Impact ’ s purpose is to make the world accessible with a focus on two areas — infrastructure and
change . One of our objectives is to bring that Impact to the US .”
The creation and execution of various impact projects in no easy feat .
“ First , we research destinations and activities and consider what needs we ’ d like to address . After developing certain impact project ideas , we present them to various brands , refine the ideas , and determine how we can partner to complete the project . Once the partnership is signed , we start planning all the details , including dates , finding tour operators that have experience with accessible tourism , obtaining necessary equipment , finding accommodations , securing transportation , sourcing attendees , and more . The most important component is that we have the full support of the tour operator to ensure everything is done safely and security measures are in place .”
Planning these projects can take anywhere from weeks to months but the social impact is significant .
“ With these projects we generate a great social impact , as we involve the communities where they occur . Our goal is to always give back in these projects whether its in terms of accessibility or education . Our goal is to generate change and inclusion in this communities . For instance , donating walkways or equipment in beach communities , allows people with disabilities to now enjoy the beach , when they were unable to do so previously . Plus , people can use this equipment free of charge .”
In March 2022 , Wheel the World partnered with Colombia Chile to host inclusive trekking at a park in Santiago Chile . A special trekking chair called a Jöelette was donated to the park so it
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