The visionary journey of Steven Mifsud MBE and Direct Access
Imagine being born profoundly deaf , navigating life with inherent challenges in communication and inclusion from the outset . This was the reality for Steven Mifsud , the visionary founder of Direct Access , a company committed to dismantling barriers for people with disabilities . Steven ' s progression from confronting personal hurdles to becoming a vanguard in the realm of accessibility and inclusion is profoundly motivating .
Growing up with significant hearing loss , Steven faced countless obstacles in communication and access , which sparked his drive to eliminate such barriers . He pursued a degree in architecture with aspirations to forge more inclusive spaces . Yet , upon entering the professional realm , he discovered a disconnect between his passion for inclusivity and the architectural field . Unwavering , Steven launched Direct Access on a shoestring budget of just one hundred pounds . What began as a modest initiative has blossomed into a prominent enterprise operating across the U . K . and the United States and the Middle East .
Steven declared , “ I ’ ve always been passionate about moving barriers .” Direct Access is no ordinary accessibility consultancy ; it comprises a team of individuals with disabilities who bring a personal understanding of the critical need for inclusivity . They advocate for comprehensive accessibility that encompasses not only physical adaptations but also digital access , sensory accommodations , and social inclusivity in structures . Their expertise includes educating organizations about accessibility , fostering inclusive environments , and championing equal opportunities .
At the core of Direct Access is a celebration of diversity and the promotion of inclusivity , not merely as a regulatory requirement but as an ethos to create environments where everyone is valued and feels welcome . This philosophy has resonated widely , delivering concrete benefits for both businesses and communities , enhancing customer engagement , and bolstering societal integration .
Direct Access also underscores the economic rationale for inclusivity , highlighting how accessible practices can expand customer bases , enhance brand reputation , and uphold moral responsibilities toward diversity and inclusion .
Looking to the future , Steven is eager to extend Direct Access ’ s influence , with projects underway in Saudi Arabia and plans for significant expansion in North America . By collaborating with global partners , Direct Access seeks to pioneer changes and establish new benchmarks in inclusivity and accessibility .
A defining moment for Steven came during a 2017 visit to Dubai , where his ability to drive — despite his hearing impairment — was met with skepticism . Yet , this trip also showcased the strides in
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