My first experience with the Duskin training program provided me with a deep understanding of designing training sessions with diverse content. Leadership, I learned, is an ongoing journey enriched by a wealth of information. This program, a melting pot of knowledge, became a transformative experience that expanded my horizons and profoundly influenced my perspective on leadership and inclusivity.

Venturing outdoors independently in my wheelchair underscored the importance of the Barrier-Free concept. In an ideal society, all public spaces should be barrier-free, enabling everyone, including people with disabilities, to enjoy dining out and spending quality time with their families without any hindrance. This vision of accessibility and inclusivity ensures that everyone can participate fully in social and cultural activities.

"I loved Japan for its world-famous values of meticulous service (omotenashi), respect, harmony, and dedication to excellence in all aspects of life."

As someone with physical disabilities, I often contemplate transportation, roads, and, notably, accessible toilets. At a Barrier-Free Expo, I witnessed Japan's remarkable technological advancements in areas like beds, toilets, baths, and transportation solutions. These innovations highlighted the critical role of accessible design in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, reinforcing my commitment to promoting inclusivity.

During three months of intensive Japanese language training at Toyama Sunrise in Tokyo, I immersed myself in mastering the language, which was more than acquiring linguistic skills—it was a journey into understanding Japan's cultural values of respect, harmony, and attention to detail. Guided by exceptional instructors whose patient teaching and cultural insights enriched my learning experience, I achieved proficiency in understanding and speaking Japanese, motivating me to pursue fluency in the language.

In Miyazaki Prefecture, nestled on Kyushu Island in southern Japan, I experienced the region's renowned natural beauty. Hosted graciously by Yamanouchi San at Yah!do, a hub for cultural immersion, I found myself captivated by Miyazaki's stunning beaches and scenic coastal drives. Yamanouchi San's warmth and hospitality created lasting memories of peace and belonging, inspiring me to capture Miyazaki's essence in a video titled "Amazing Miyazaki."

Yah!do CIL's architecture blended traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern functionality, enhancing my experience amidst tranquil mountain views. The opportunity to welcome the new year surrounded by serene sea beaches and majestic mountains was a privilege. Miyazaki's unmatched tranquillity and natural splendor continue to resonate deeply with me, and I eagerly anticipate the chance to revisit this cherished place.

I enjoyed famous dishes like Halal ramen and halal yakiniku, soba, udon, sushi, sashimi, Tako (octopas) and vegetable and fish tempura, but one of my favourites that I miss back in my country is onigiri with tuna and mayonnaise.

My first ski experience in Niigata, Japan, was a life-changing journey filled with anticipation and exhilaration. Despite the cold and physical challenges, learning to ski and using a bi-ski for individuals with disabilities taught me invaluable lessons in resilience and determination. The experience garnered media attention, highlighting the importance of overcoming obstacles and pursuing personal goals with unwavering belief.

During group training, I studied welfare services, the history of the disability movement, universal design principles, and Japan's various disability support systems. These sessions provided a comprehensive overview of the systematic efforts to support individuals with disabilities, highlighting the importance of inclusive policies and practices. We also focused on peer support, self-reflection, and the life curve, which offered valuable perspectives on the challenges and triumphs faced by individuals with disabilities.

The training emphasized the significance of a comprehensive approach to disability support, integrating social, economic, and psychological aspects. This multidimensional perspective enriched my understanding of how various factors contribute to the well-being and empowerment of individuals with disabilities.

Delving into the realm of DAISY (Digital Accessible Information System) technology proved to be incredibly enlightening. DAISY technology, designed to make information accessible to individuals with visual impairments, provided a glimpse into the potential of assistive technologies. My intrigue lies in comprehending technology designed specifically for individuals with disabilities, such as text-to-audio conversion and facilitating image descriptions. However, I acknowledge that despite the invaluable solutions DAISY offers, it may not currently reach all individuals who could benefit. Therefore, I plan to conduct further research on DAISY in the future to gain deeper insights into its efficacy and potential areas for improvement.

The establishment of Mainstream Association, Partner, and Muchu Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in Japan was a significant endeavour fraught with challenges, underscoring the rigorous nature of the disability rights movement. Overcoming obstacles such as accessibility issues and societal attitudes required dedicated efforts, yet Japanese leaders' unwavering commitment has led to the creation of more inclusive environments marked by barrier-free access.

My stay provided profound insights into the daily lives of individuals with disabilities in Japanese households. Witnessing firsthand the adaptations and innovations within these homes deepened my understanding of the practical challenges faced by the disabled community. While accessibility remains an ongoing issue in Japanese homes, the CIL movement has spurred governmental efforts to enhance social security measures. Reflecting on these experiences, I see potential for a similar wave of activism in Bangladesh.

In Bangladesh, there is a pressing need to establish a CIL tailored to local contexts, engaging in workshops and research to understand the needs and aspirations of the disability community comprehensively. This initiative must involve national leaders, grassroots networks, urban and rural communities, and academia to ensure inclusivity. Webinars and consultations with government officials and organizational representatives are crucial for gathering diverse perspectives and fostering widespread understanding.

Securing sustainable funding is paramount for the CIL's long-term viability. Exploring various funding sources—from governmental grants to private donations—is essential to support its establishment and ongoing operations. My training in Japan has facilitated valuable partnerships with Japanese organizations, enabling collaboration and knowledge exchange that will support the development of the CIL in Bangladesh.

Upon returning, our group training transitioned into proposal development, action planning, and networking with institutions like the Nippon Foundation and JICA. These efforts culminated in a final presentation, articulating our collective goals and aspirations for advancing disability rights upon our return to Bangladesh. Partnering with organizations like AAR Japan and SHAPLA NEER further aligns our efforts with existing humanitarian support structures, reinforcing our commitment to achieving tangible outcomes in Bangladesh's disability rights movement.

As we left Japan on July 13, 2024, we carried with us unforgettable experiences and immense gratitude to the Duskin Ainowa Foundation for their steadfast support. This journey highlighted the transformative power of exploration and collaboration.

Toyama Sunrise stands out not just as a training center but as a place where deep connections and insights were formed. I am grateful to JSRPD for nurturing us into effective leaders.

Reflecting on this experience, I reaffirm my commitment: "If I can't, no one can." This belief inspires me to face challenges with resilience and push boundaries with determination.

Looking forward to our reunion, Duskin, where I hope to share exciting news and achievements. Until then, take care and stay tuned for what lies ahead!