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