My name is Zainab Muhammad Usman. I’m a young woman from kano, Nigeria with a deep love for learning, creativity, and inspiring others. I’m currently studying Biology at the university, and I dream of reaching the PhD level and transitioning into Biotechnology. I’m also a fashion designer who specializes in sewing and decorating veils and clothes with beadwork. Despite my disability, I continue to live with faith, strength, and a desire to make a difference.
I was affected by polio when I was two years old. Because of that, one of my legs is contracted—I can move it, but it cannot fully extend or carry weight. I also have scoliosis, which affects my posture. These conditions have made physical movement challenging, but they have never stopped me from dreaming. Instead, they’ve helped me see the world with more empathy and understanding. I see value in everyone and believe that being different is not a weakness—it’s a kind of strength.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was accepting myself fully. At times, I felt left out or questioned my worth because I couldn’t move like others. But I kept reminding myself that Allah created me with a purpose. Through prayer, support from loved ones, and believing in my dreams, I grew stronger. Now, I don’t just accept myself—I love myself and want others to find the same strength within.
There was a time I stood in front of a mirror and looked at myself—not with sadness, but with pride. I realized that everything I thought made me different actually made me special. That moment of self-acceptance was empowering. It reminded me that I don’t have to be like everyone else to have a full and meaningful life.
I am most proud of being in my third year at the university, studying a course I truly love—despite all the challenges that come with both academics and my disability. Many people didn’t expect me to go this far, but I did. That’s something I’ll always carry with pride.
My faith in Allah keeps me going. I also find strength in my purpose—to encourage others with disabilities and show the world that we are not less. My dreams for the future, my passion for education, and the desire to uplift others are what keep me grounded.
I have many passions beyond my disability. I love sewing and fashion design, especially decorating veils and clothes with beadwork. I enjoy bringing beauty out of simple fabrics and turning ideas into reality through my hands. I also love learning and hope to become a scientist in the field of Biotechnology one day. Helping others, sharing positivity, and standing up for people with special needs are also things I care deeply about.
I hope to make a difference by using my voice and skills to inspire and uplift people with disabilities. I want to show the world that we are not invisible. I believe that by sharing my journey, I can give hope to others who feel discouraged or overlooked. My dream is to be a part of something bigger—an initiative that brings support, training, and opportunities to people like me.
One thing that makes me unique is my combination of creativity and determination. Even when I face physical limitations, I don’t give up. Whether I’m designing clothes or studying for exams, I give it my best. I have a strong ability to encourage others, and I believe that kindness and consistency can change lives. My experiences have taught me patience, confidence, and how to rise after falling.
I am still chasing the dream of becoming an advocate and building a platform where people with disabilities, especially women, can gain skills, be heard, and feel valued. I want to create a space where we can learn, grow, and support one another—especially those who don’t have access to education or opportunity. If I had support, I would use it to start something that lasts: a fashion brand or training center that includes and uplifts people with special needs.
I want every person with a disability to know that they are not alone, and they are not forgotten. You are important. You are worthy. Your life has meaning, and your dreams matter. Don’t let anyone’s opinion or the way society looks at you make you feel less. You are more than enough just as you are.
I am inspired by people who face difficulties but still rise and help others. People with disabilities who use their voice to create awareness, demand change, and show courage motivate me deeply. Their strength reminds me that I, too, have something to offer the world.
One thing I wish people understood better about living with a disability is that we don’t need pity—we need opportunity. Most of us are capable, smart, and creative, but what holds us back is not our bodies—it’s society’s lack of inclusion and accessibility.
If I could change one thing in society, I would make sure that every space—schools, workplaces, roads, and events—is accessible and inclusive for everyone. I would also promote education and empowerment for people with disabilities, especially women, so they can become independent and confident.
A common misconception I want to correct is the belief that people with disabilities can’t do much. That’s wrong. We can learn, create, work, and inspire. We have potential—it just needs to be supported and seen.
I wish employers and the public would see us beyond our disability. We don’t want to be hired out of sympathy—we want to be hired because we have value. We want people to respect our efforts, give us a chance, and believe in our ability to grow.
One of my favorite motivational quotes is: “With every hardship comes ease.” (Qur’an 94:6). It reminds me that no matter how difficult life gets, relief and blessings will always follow. That gives me strength to keep going.
If my life were a movie, the title would be: “Grace in the Midst of Storms.” Because even through pain and difficulty, I’ve learned to carry myself with faith, dignity, and purpose.
If I could describe my life in a hashtag, it would be: #UnstoppableFaith — because faith has carried me through what my strength alone could not.
Something that always makes me smile or laugh is spending time with my siblings and friends—especially when we act silly or make jokes about daily situations. Even when things feel heavy, laughter always reminds me I’m still living and still blessed.
I believe this initiative will change lives. When people with disabilities are given a platform to speak, they begin to heal, grow, and inspire others. It also opens the eyes of society to the beauty, talent, and value in every disabled person. It shows we are not invisible—we are powerful.
Finally, I just want to say this: I am proud of how far I’ve come, and I believe my journey is just beginning. If my story can give someone else hope, then it’s all worth it. I may have faced many challenges, but I still have light in me—and I will use it to brighten the path for others.
I was affected by polio when I was two years old. Because of that, one of my legs is contracted—I can move it, but it cannot fully extend or carry weight. I also have scoliosis, which affects my posture. These conditions have made physical movement challenging, but they have never stopped me from dreaming. Instead, they’ve helped me see the world with more empathy and understanding. I see value in everyone and believe that being different is not a weakness—it’s a kind of strength.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was accepting myself fully. At times, I felt left out or questioned my worth because I couldn’t move like others. But I kept reminding myself that Allah created me with a purpose. Through prayer, support from loved ones, and believing in my dreams, I grew stronger. Now, I don’t just accept myself—I love myself and want others to find the same strength within.
There was a time I stood in front of a mirror and looked at myself—not with sadness, but with pride. I realized that everything I thought made me different actually made me special. That moment of self-acceptance was empowering. It reminded me that I don’t have to be like everyone else to have a full and meaningful life.
I am most proud of being in my third year at the university, studying a course I truly love—despite all the challenges that come with both academics and my disability. Many people didn’t expect me to go this far, but I did. That’s something I’ll always carry with pride.
My faith in Allah keeps me going. I also find strength in my purpose—to encourage others with disabilities and show the world that we are not less. My dreams for the future, my passion for education, and the desire to uplift others are what keep me grounded.
I have many passions beyond my disability. I love sewing and fashion design, especially decorating veils and clothes with beadwork. I enjoy bringing beauty out of simple fabrics and turning ideas into reality through my hands. I also love learning and hope to become a scientist in the field of Biotechnology one day. Helping others, sharing positivity, and standing up for people with special needs are also things I care deeply about.
I hope to make a difference by using my voice and skills to inspire and uplift people with disabilities. I want to show the world that we are not invisible. I believe that by sharing my journey, I can give hope to others who feel discouraged or overlooked. My dream is to be a part of something bigger—an initiative that brings support, training, and opportunities to people like me.
One thing that makes me unique is my combination of creativity and determination. Even when I face physical limitations, I don’t give up. Whether I’m designing clothes or studying for exams, I give it my best. I have a strong ability to encourage others, and I believe that kindness and consistency can change lives. My experiences have taught me patience, confidence, and how to rise after falling.
I am still chasing the dream of becoming an advocate and building a platform where people with disabilities, especially women, can gain skills, be heard, and feel valued. I want to create a space where we can learn, grow, and support one another—especially those who don’t have access to education or opportunity. If I had support, I would use it to start something that lasts: a fashion brand or training center that includes and uplifts people with special needs.
I want every person with a disability to know that they are not alone, and they are not forgotten. You are important. You are worthy. Your life has meaning, and your dreams matter. Don’t let anyone’s opinion or the way society looks at you make you feel less. You are more than enough just as you are.
I am inspired by people who face difficulties but still rise and help others. People with disabilities who use their voice to create awareness, demand change, and show courage motivate me deeply. Their strength reminds me that I, too, have something to offer the world.
One thing I wish people understood better about living with a disability is that we don’t need pity—we need opportunity. Most of us are capable, smart, and creative, but what holds us back is not our bodies—it’s society’s lack of inclusion and accessibility.
If I could change one thing in society, I would make sure that every space—schools, workplaces, roads, and events—is accessible and inclusive for everyone. I would also promote education and empowerment for people with disabilities, especially women, so they can become independent and confident.
A common misconception I want to correct is the belief that people with disabilities can’t do much. That’s wrong. We can learn, create, work, and inspire. We have potential—it just needs to be supported and seen.
I wish employers and the public would see us beyond our disability. We don’t want to be hired out of sympathy—we want to be hired because we have value. We want people to respect our efforts, give us a chance, and believe in our ability to grow.
One of my favorite motivational quotes is: “With every hardship comes ease.” (Qur’an 94:6). It reminds me that no matter how difficult life gets, relief and blessings will always follow. That gives me strength to keep going.
If my life were a movie, the title would be: “Grace in the Midst of Storms.” Because even through pain and difficulty, I’ve learned to carry myself with faith, dignity, and purpose.
If I could describe my life in a hashtag, it would be: #UnstoppableFaith — because faith has carried me through what my strength alone could not.
Something that always makes me smile or laugh is spending time with my siblings and friends—especially when we act silly or make jokes about daily situations. Even when things feel heavy, laughter always reminds me I’m still living and still blessed.
I believe this initiative will change lives. When people with disabilities are given a platform to speak, they begin to heal, grow, and inspire others. It also opens the eyes of society to the beauty, talent, and value in every disabled person. It shows we are not invisible—we are powerful.
Finally, I just want to say this: I am proud of how far I’ve come, and I believe my journey is just beginning. If my story can give someone else hope, then it’s all worth it. I may have faced many challenges, but I still have light in me—and I will use it to brighten the path for others.