At just 12 years old, Isidora Uribe Silva felt the sting of discrimination for the first time. After transferring schools in Santiago, Chile, her cerebral palsy became visible not only to peers but also to indifferent teachers and administrators who refused to accommodate her needs. Bullying escalated, and she missed seven months of school until she found refuge at Institución Teresiana—a turning point in her life .
🌱 Seed of Awareness and Activism
This painful experience awakened in her a deep awareness of systemic exclusion—not just for herself but others facing marginalization. At 13, she channeled her passion into action by creating “Encuentra Tu Lugar” (“Find Your Place”)—initially a mobile app to locate accessible parking spots, which evolved into a comprehensive platform promoting accessible environments for people with disabilities .
🏆 From App to Advocacy
“Encuentra Tu Lugar” grew from a digital tool into a movement. It now identifies accessible schools, workplaces, cafés, and public spaces. The initiative earned awards like Mujer Impacta 2023, showcasing how technology can empower real-world inclusion .
🤝 Building Community Impact
Her efforts extend beyond digital innovation. Isidora forged grassroots networks focused on transforming social attitudes and enforcing accessibility in everyday life. She emphasizes that inclusion isn’t just policy—it’s practice. Recent interviews highlight the launch of her foundation, “Disidora,” and her active involvement in platforms like CNN Español, reinforcing the importance of meaningful participation for women with disabilities .
🌍 Global Recognition at the U.N.
Isidora’s advocacy has reached international levels:
She is a National Gender Youth Advocate with UN Women. Held positions in the Generation Equality Adolescent Committee and UN Women Leaders Network, which launched at the 2024 UN General Assembly . Authored “Calles Para Todos”, a powerful narrative promoting accessible streets, recently released via Oxfam España .
Her presence at forums like ECOSOC Youth 2023 highlights her message on sustainable development and intersectional inclusion .
🎓 Legal Aspirations & Systemic Change
Now 20 years old, Isidora studies law at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, preparing to drive legal reforms that guarantee structural inclusion—especially in justice, education, and healthcare sectors .
💡 Key Lessons from Her Journey
Transformed Adversity into Action: Early discrimination fueled her advocacy. Toolkit for Inclusion: By blending tech tools with community outreach, she creates tangible change. From Local to Global: What began in Santiago now resonates at U.N. forums. Intersectionality Matters: She foregrounds the unique barriers faced by women with disabilities.
🚀 Looking Ahead
Isidora Uribe Silva’s journey illustrates that meaningful inclusion transcends well-meaning laws. It demands persistent advocacy, innovative solutions, and leadership rooted in lived experience. As she steps into legal and international arenas, she brings with her a powerful message: true inclusion empowers everyone—by design and by heart.
Isidora’s story challenges us to consider how we—including educators, policymakers, and community leaders—can dismantle biases, enhance accessibility, and ensure no one is left behind.
