Path
- Index
- The 14th Duskin Leadership Training in Japan
- Message from former trainee
Message from former trainee
Go for it!!!

I stayed in Japan as one of the 3rd trainees for 10 months between the end of August 2001 and the beginning of July 2002. In the beginning, I had many problems as I was new to the food, language and culture there. But, after a while, I got used to a Japanese lifestyle with support from staff members and my fellow trainees.
I met with many great leaders with disabilities and had plenty of new experiences. The acquaintances through the Independent Living Movement thoroughly changed my thoughts about the disability movement. I felt I was finally awakened to the world. This training program changed me entirely.
Now I work for a position in the Pakistani Government that is responsible for providing special devices and coordinating disability organizations nationwide. As it would be expected of a powerful position like this, I often face challenges in carrying out my tasks. Whenever I have problems, I recall my old days in the training. It gives me guts to go on.
I would like to tell those who are interested in applying for this program, “Go for it!”
Muhammad Shafiq-ur-Rehman
The 3rd Trainee