Inclusion, Innovation And Global Influence
5th May 2026
In our latest episode of the My Voice podcast, we sat down with Martyn Sibley, a leader at the intersection of disability, business, and culture. Martyn’s mission is simple: to build a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Inclusion As An Opportunity
For Martyn, inclusion isn’t just a compliance tick-box; it’s a cultural movement. Drawing from his lived experience with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Martyn advocates for designing systems that prioritise disabled people, unlocking a massive pool of untapped talent and creativity in the process.
The Purple Impact
Through his co-founded ventures, Martyn is driving change across industries:
- Purple Goat: Reshaping global representation through inclusive marketing.
- Purple Changemakers: Highlighting leaders pushing for social progress.
- Purple Collective: Campaigning for better housing, transport, and social care.
The Bottom Line
Martyn helps organisations navigate the disability market with confidence, helping them realise that inclusive design is imperative. When you build for accessibility, you build a better future for everyone.
Listen to the full episode with Martyn Sibley by following the link My Voice Podcast | Podcast on Spotify.
6 Accessible Events To Enjoy In May
1st May 2026
As the days get longer and the flowers begin to bloom, the May Bank Holiday is the perfect excuse to get out and explore. We know that spontaneous trips often require a mountain of pre-planning when you have specific access needs, so we’ve done the work for you.
We have listed our 6 accessible events that you can enjoy this month, ranging from sensory-friendly sessions at the Southbank Centre to a high-energy silent disco. We’ve selected highlights that offer relaxed sessions, Changing Places facilities, and options that genuinely enhance the experience. Read on to discover how you can join the fun with the whole family.
1) Relaxed Events
Kensington Palace, London
10th May 10am -12pm
Kensington Palace offers dedicated, relaxed events specifically designed for neurodivergent or learning-disabled visitors. Held on select Sundays throughout the year. These sessions provide two hours of crowd-free access with reduced ticket capacity. To ensure a comfortable experience, the palace minimises or turns off harsh lighting and loud sound effects, while disability-aware facilitators lead specialised sensory programmes. Visitors also receive a visual story via email two weeks before their visit detailing your arrival time and what to expect to help you prepare you for your visit. Follow the link to book your tickets Relaxed Events: Young People And Adults.
Accessibility
The venue is committed to making sure it is accessible to all visitors, and they provide a range of facilities for disabled visitors.
- Step-Free Access: All three floors of the palace are accessible via internal lifts. The main entrance and the Kensington Palace Pavilion (for events) offer level access.
- Wheelchair Hire: Manual wheelchairs are available to borrow free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis from the Palace entrance.
- Rest Areas: Benches and seating are located throughout the State Apartments and gardens for those who need to rest during their tour.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities are available near the main entrance and the Pigott Galleries.
There are step-free routes around the palace and maps to help you navigate your way around. Please follow the link to see a full list of facilities that are available Accessibility | Kensington Palace.
2) Accessible Afternoons
National Space Centre, Leicester
10th May -3pm – 6pm
If your children love to learn about space and the world we live in, the National Space Centre hosts accessible afternoons throughout the months. It’s been set up for children and young adults with additional needs who can enjoy the experience and what the centre has to offer in a quieter and more relaxed environment. To find out more and to book, please follow the link Accessible Afternoons.
Accessibility
The venue is accessible and they provide a range of facilities for disabled visitors, including:
- Disabled parking is available for a cost of £4 for the full day
- Disabled toilets are available throughout the venue
- Concession tickets are available for disabled visitors and you can add a free companion ticket when booking. Proof of disability is required to get the companion ticket
- Wheelchairs are available to loan free of charge for visitors (depending on availability)
- Large print is available on request
To see a full list of accessible facilities, please follow the link Space Centre Accessibility.
3) Natural History Museum
Silent Disco
16th & 22nd May 10pm – 1am
Join us at the Natural History Museum for an unforgettable silent disco at Hintze Hall. It’s held throughout the coming months with various dates. Whether you're a fan of new or old songs, you can switch between them wirelessly. Their VIP access offers a smoother, more accessible experience with skip-the-queue entry, a dedicated cloakroom, and a private balcony with views of the dance floor. With a full bar and a unique atmosphere, this is a great way to enjoy a high-energy night in a spectacular and inclusive setting. To find out more and to book your tickets, please follow the link Silent Disco | Natural History Museum.
Accessibility
- This event takes place on the Ground Floor and is fully wheelchair accessible.
- An accessible toilet is available at the back of Hintze Hall, under the stairs. They also have a Changing Places toilet located in the Blue Zone.
- If you’re unable to wait in queues for long periods, speak to their security staff and they’ll fast track your entry.
Blue badge parking: This is available on request.
Companion ticket: Please call them to request your free companion ticket on 020 7942 5000. The lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. The tickets are subject to availability.
If you would like to speak to them before your visit to discuss your access needs, please email their Visitor Events Team at after-hours@nhm.ac.uk.
For more information on visiting and accessibility, please follow the link to their website when booking your tickets.
4) Replay Playground and World Play
The Southbank Centre, London
Running from 14th May
The Southbank Centre hosts a range of different creative and fun activities for disabled children and their families. This year’s highlights include Replay, a limitless recycled playground at the Royal Festival Hall, which features dedicated Relaxed Sessions for a quiet, less busy experience. Families can also enjoy WordPlay, a series of free, sensory-rich music and song sessions. To book tickets, please follow the links REPLAY: A Limitless Recycled Playground and REPLAY: Relaxed World Play
Accessibility
The venue offers a free access scheme for deaf and disabled visitors so you can make the most of what the centre has to offer during your visit. To find out more, follow the link Access Scheme | Southbank Centre.
The venue has disabled parking with 3 Blue badge parking spaces, offered on a first come first serve basis and are located on the Queen Elizabeth Hall slip road.
A wheelchair can be booked if required. This can be done by emailing hello@southbankcentre.co.uk or by calling 020 3879 9555.
To see full detailed information on the venue's accessible facilities, please follow the link Access & accessibility | Southbank Centre.
5) RHS Chelsea Flower Show
Chelsea, London
19th – 23rd May 8am -8pm
The world’s most famous flower show is a leader in outdoor accessibility. For 2026, a major highlight is the Sightsavers Garden, specifically designed as a sensory sanctuary, built to champion disability rights and inclusion. The centre of the garden features a turning circle specifically designed for wheelchair users to navigate the space with ease.
To find out more about the garden, please follow the link Sightsavers Sensory Garden RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026 .
Accessibility
The show does all it can to make sure it’s accessible to disabled visitors.
On Wednesdays and Fridays, they offer early access for disabled visitors. To book accessible tickets, please call AXS on 0333 300 3015.
- Wheelchair hire: They have a limited number of wheelchairs so it’s best to book it online or by calling AXS. A £20 charge applies.
- Accessible toilets: These are located at Burton Court, Battersea Park and a number of other locations around the show. There are large maps, which show where they can be located.
To find out more about the accessible facilities and how to get there, please follow the link Accessibility at RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
If you have a Radar key, we advise that you bring it with you.
6) DMLab Festival
Rich Mix Bethnal Green, London
24th May 10.15am -7pm
If you’re looking for something cutting-edge, this festival celebrates the intersection of music, technology, and disability. Taking place on the Sunday of the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, it showcases d/Deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent artists using bespoke accessible instruments.
Accessibility
The venue has ramped access and lifts to all floors. The festival itself is designed with the community in mind, featuring morning workshops for building touch-based instruments, followed by relaxed afternoon demos and an evening performance with integrated accessibility features. This event can be attended in person or online. To discuss your access requirements you can call their box office on 020 7613 7498 or email boxoffice@richmix.org.uk.
To find out more about the venue's accessibility, please follow the link DMLab Festival - Rich Mix.
More on Access My Events:
Leading With Purpose: Our Founder Joins For Brian As A Director
A Day Of Pride And Celebration At The Birmingham Disability Festival
Disability And AI Revolutionising The Way We Work
By Access My Events
Leaning Into It: Our First Spin On The Ice Trike Pixel
16th April 2026 Stratford Velodrome Olympic Park
A few days ago, we went out to the Olympic Park with the lovely Clare Morris, CEO of For Brian, and some members of the For Brian community!
We headed over to Bikeworks head office and took the Overground to get to the Velodrome in Stratford to test out their new Ice Trike Pixel. Zubee has been a regular member of Bikeworks for many years, but she hasn't had the chance to switch between different cycles because she needs specific pedals with support and straps to keep her feet secure while riding. This means we are limited in what we can use.
It was a bit of a waiting game while they swapped the pedals over to see if the mechanism would fit... and it worked. It was the first time that we finally got to try something new and feel the wind in our hair on a different set of wheels. The seat was so comfortable that we were ready to go the minute we sat down. It's different to our normal upright three-wheel tricycle that we normally ride. Zubee loved it that she wanted to get one for herself, but owning one is expensive, and we are grateful to Bikeworks and Clare for organising this so we could try it out.
Leading With Purpose: Our Founder Joins For Brian As A Director
20th April 2026
We are excited to share that our Founder, Zubee, has officially joined For Brian as a Director. It’s been an intense and transformative journey to get here, one that has been both rewarding and deeply challenging as we navigate the weight that comes with dealing with grief.
In this blog post, Zubee dives into why she decided to step into this leadership position. She reflects on her journey so far, looking back at some of the achievements that have helped raise awareness of our work and drive change within the events industry, all while finding the strength to turn personal loss into a professional mission.
Those who know Zubee will know that she doesn't keep still and likes to stay busy! She currently balances her time across three areas: Founder of Access My Events, Co-host of My Voice Podcast, and her new role as a Director.
When Zubee’s late grandmother was diagnosed with Dementia, she was faced with a condition her family and Zubee had never encountered before. It was a steep learning curve, and honestly, an eye-opening one. We saw the gaps in awareness and the lack of support systems for Asian families navigating this path. That experience led her to ensure that no one goes through this journey alone or without the accessibility and support they deserve.
How We Met The CEO Of For Brian
Zubee regularly attends Bikeworks All Ability Cycling Club, and it’s something she really enjoys. It’s also a great way to stay fit and active, and a wonderful space to socialise and meet new people. It was during one of these sessions at Little Wormwood Scrubs Park about two years ago when Zubee first met Clare. We got to chatting, and Clare said she was looking for some help with For Brian.
At the time, we were looking for work, but we were also going through a deeply personal challenge. Zubee's late grandmother was living with Dementia, and as a family, we were finding it difficult with the support she was receiving and understanding the impact it was having on my grandmother and especially our late Grandad, who was looking after her. The roles had completely reversed, and the daily routines were changed with daily carers coming in. As a disabled person and someone who is very close to both her grandparents, she wanted to help.
Zubee opened up to Clare about the challenges she's been facing trying to gain her independence while navigating family barriers. At the same time, it was an incredibly difficult and heavy time for us. Knowing that Clare supports people living with Dementia through her work at For Brian, we felt we could speak with someone who understood the challenges and helped us to navigate the support that is available and the best people to contact through Clare’s connections.
Shortly after our first meeting, we arranged a virtual chat to discuss the work Clare needed help with, and since then, we have been working together and keeping in touch. We are grateful that a day of cycling allowed us to turn a challenging time into a way to help others going through a similar situation.
"For Brian is delighted to have Zubee Kibria join the board of directors. We share a love of cycling and her work to raise awareness of access needs for disabled people, researching and publishing blogs and highlighting upcoming accessible events, as well as interesting podcasts, is aligned with For Brian's vision for dementia inclusive activity for brain health. She brings important skills and experience to the mix and we are are working together to understand and find solutions to her own travel and mobility needs." Clare Morris - CEO of For Brian.
Taking On A New Challenge
When Zubee was offered the role to become a Director, she was hesitant and started questioning herself because she had never held a senior position before at this level and the responsibilities that come with being a Director. We took a few days to think about it and we had a chat with the CEO, Clare and a close friend. Through that conversation, we thought opportunities like this don’t come up often, so why not take it as a new challenge. Zubee is always looking for ways to develop herself personally and professionally and this position is a great way to get out of her comfort zone and realise that we have the lived experience and commitment to lead and succeed in the role.
Why For Brian
At For Brian, we are dedicated to creating change for those living with dementia. Our mission in this new role is to help raise much-needed awareness of disability and Dementia, while ensuring access is never an afterthought. It’s about making an impact through the important work we do to help and support the For Brian community. Clare and Zubee share a love of cycling and community, and our professional goals align perfectly with the impact we want to make. More than anything, this work is personal because what we do at For Brian is fueled by one powerful goal: we want to keep our late grandmother at the centre of our why.
We love you and we miss you Appa Gee.❤️ This is the name we used to address our late grandmother by as a form of respect and affection.
Leading With Purpose In The Boardroom And Event Floor
This new chapter sits well alongside our work as the founder of Access My Events, where we have been driven by a mission to work with organisations and advise them on what they need to do to make their events more inclusive and accessible to the deaf and disabled community. Whether it’s at boardroom level or the event floor, the goal remains the same.
Shaping The Future Of For Brian
As we step into this role as Director, our focus is on ensuring that For Brian remains a champion of inclusivity. Our work will be a blend of being mission-driven and hands-on support, including:
- Inclusive Advocacy: We will be working to ensure all our programs and services are accessible as possible to the diverse needs of For Brian members.
- First Point of Contact: We will be handling new enquiries, welcoming new members and organisations into the For Brian community with the same empathy and understanding we received when we first met Clare.
- Mission Driven: Contributing to board meetings to help shape the future direction of the organisation and ensure we are making the best decisions for the community.
- Direct Community Support: We will be on the ground during our events and activities, supporting the For Brian community.
- Digital Presence: We will be managing our social media and website content on a regular basis so we can keep members informed of the work we are doing and the impact we are making.
Reflections On The Journey So Far
Stepping into this leadership role has made us reflect on how far we’ve come in terms of visibility and advocacy over the last few years. Some of the milestones that continue to energise our passion include:
- Small Business Achievement: In July 2023, Access My Events was named a winner of Theo Paphitis’ Small Business Sunday (SBS).
- Community Presence: Exhibiting our business at the Disability Expo for the first time in July 2023.
- Breaking Barriers in Fashion: In November 2023, we were honoured to be the first person with a disability to model at Europe’s largest Asian wedding show.
- Amplifying Unheard Voices: Through My Voice Podcast, Zubee continues to provide a platform for disabled people from ethnic minority backgrounds to discuss the everyday challenges and cultural barriers that prevent disabled people reach their full potential.
We are excited to bring this energy to the For Brian community. To connect with For Brian, you can follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.
More on Access My Events:
- Turning Adversity Into A Mission To Make A Difference For Others
- Access My Events At The Small Business Sunday Event 2024
- National Asian Wedding Show Featured Disabled Model On The Catwalk For The First Time
By Access My Events
Welcoming Ramadan: A Time For Reflection, Community And Remembering Loved Ones
18th February 2026
As the crescent moon is sighted, we prepare to welcome Ramadan. It’s the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. This year, the timing brings a unique sense of ease; with the month falling during the shorter days of late winter, the fasts are significantly shorter than in previous years. This makes the physical challenge a lot easier for many, allowing us to focus more of our energy on spiritual renewal, community, and the deep-rooted traditions of our families.
But at its heart, Ramadan is about connection to faith, to the community, and, most importantly, to family. At Access My Events, we advocate for inclusion and the power of shared experiences. However, we also know that for many families, the table feels a little different this year.
A Different Kind Of Chair At The Table
For Zubee and her family, Ramadan 2026 carries a bittersweet weight. Traditions that once felt like clockwork now serve as reminders of those no longer with us. Last year, the family shared Iftar meals (the meal to break the fast) with our much-loved Grandad, whom we addressed with the deepest respect and affection as Agha Gee. We smiled and enjoyed the togetherness that defines this month, unaware it would be his last Ramadan and Eid with us. This is the first Ramadan without him and the second loss the family had experienced so close to home in the space of 4 months. His absence this year leaves a quiet space where his wisdom and presence used to be.
Adding to this sense of loss, 2024 saw the passing of our much-loved Nan, known affectionately as Appa Gee. This year marks the second Ramadan without her warmth, guidance and prayers. For Zubee and her family, the act of breaking the fast is no longer just about the food or the timing—it is a tribute to the legacy of the grandparents who helped keep these traditions going with their prayers and blessings, which are very deeply missed everyday.
Finding Strength In Memory
Grief has a way of surfacing during festive times, but Ramadan offers a unique space for healing. It teaches us:
- Patience (Sabr): Finding the strength to navigate the day, even when your heart is heavy.
- Charity (Zakat): Honouring lost loved ones by giving to those in need in their name.
- Gratitude: Being thankful for the years spent together, even as we grieve the years lost.
While the Iftar table may be smaller this year, the love that fills the room remains as vast as ever. We break our fast not just to nourish our bodies, but to honour the bonds that go beyond even life itself.
Tips For Making Iftar Gatherings Accessible
If you are planning to host an Iftar during the month, we have listed some of our practical tips to ensure that everyone feels included.
- Clear paths: Ensure there is a wide, unobstructed walkway to the dining area and the prayer space. Remove loose rugs or clutter that could be a trip hazard.
- Physical Layout: While sitting on the floor is a beautiful tradition, it isn’t accessible for everyone. Always provide sturdy chairs with armrests for those with back pain, joint issues, or limited mobility.
- Sensory Awareness: Iftar can sometimes be busy and hectic. Create a quiet space for guests who might feel overwhelmed or for those who may be going through grief
- Dietary needs: Label dishes clearly (especially for sugar-free or allergen-free needs). For those managing health conditions alongside fasting, knowing exactly what is in the food is vital.
- Serving Food: Instead of everyone rushing to the table at the exact minute the fast breaks, consider serving elders and those with disabilities first to avoid the physical squeeze of a crowd.
- Seated Prayer: Keep a few chairs at the back or side of the prayer area for those who need to perform Salah (prayer) while seated.
- Pace the Evening: Allow for a slower transition between breaking the fast and the main meal. This helps those with digestive issues or mobility challenges move at their own speed without feeling rushed by the crowd.
If you know of any accessible Iftar events happening, please let us know so we can share them with our network. We would like to wish those observing the holy month a very blessed Ramadan Mubarak!
More on Access My Events:
The Holy Month Of Ramadan 2025
My Voice Podcast: Ramadan Reflections From A Different Perspective
The Magic Of Riverdance 30th Anniversary Tour
By Access My Events
My Voice Podcast: Changing The Global Disability Narrative
1st February 2026
We are kicking off 2026 with a great guest who is shaping how the world views disability.
Hosts Zubee and Raya sit down with Peter Torres Fremlin, a journalist and editor behind Disability Debrief. Peter’s work spans over 160 countries, bringing vital world news and stories of disabled people to the forefront of our screens.
In this episode, we dive into:
✍️The Journey: What led Peter from international disability rights advising to global journalism?
The Mission: How Disability Debrief keeps the world informed.
🌏Personal Insights: Peter shares his own experiences with disability and his vision for the future.
Listen now on Spotify: Changing the Global Disability Narrative.
Our Journey: Redefining Traditional Fashion With Oorvi Desai
28th January 2026
Access My Events is making a change. We are redefining traditional fashion by making it accessible through an exciting collaboration with fashion designer Oorvi Desai. This partnership is a total game-changer, proving that whether designs come from Southall, India or back home in Pakistan, accessibility must meet style. We hope our story leads the way for other South Asian designers to offer a bespoke service, while ensuring that every individual can wear something they love. Join us as we share the journey and our experience.
Finding the perfect outfit for an occasion is always a challenge, but since it’s our first family wedding in Pakistan in a long time, we wanted something that captures the magic of the occasion while looking and feeling glamorous. The last time we attended a wedding there, Zubee was a child. Having our own fitted lengha is something Zubee really wanted. Seeing everyone else look elegant in their own outfits often left her feeling excluded because she thought having disability meant that a garment like that is not made for her.
For our founder, Zubee, the search isn't just about style, it’s about accessibility. As someone living with a physical disability that affects her mobility, traditional South Asian wear can present a unique set of hurdles, from the weight of the fabric to the complex draping and the precise length required for ease of movement. We can’t enjoy the experience of just going into a shop and getting something off the rack.
Why We Choose Oorvi Desai
We really admire Oorvi’s work and have been following her for the last two years. Zubee wanted to buy from her since then, and she was hoping for an opportunity to come up to visit her boutique. What really drew us to her was her reputation and dedication to creating bespoke outfits from her original designs. Not only that, she can create outfits from scratch, whether it's inspired by something seen in a magazine or brought to life through a client's imagination. We've not seen or heard of any South Asian designers who offer this level of bespoke service.
Zubee has been told by tailors before that ready-made, heavily embroidered pieces can’t be fully altered because it can ruin the design, which we are aware of. With Oorvi’s designs, it’s different because they are fully customisable, which is essential for our needs. In the world of fashion, finding a designer who understands that everybody is unique and provides a bespoke service to adapt their vision to meet those needs is a game-changer.
"We are redefining what contour looks like. It is no longer measured solely by the weight of the gold thread, but by the strength with which we break down barriers. When inclusivity is woven into the very fabric of a garment, elegance becomes effortless, and style becomes a statement of true belonging" Oorvi Desai, London - Founder and Creative Director.
The Challenge Of Traditional Design
For Zubee, the beauty of a Lengha often comes with practical challenges:
- The Fit: Ensuring the full piece provides support without restricting movement.
- The Length: Traditional skirts are often heavy and long, which can be a safety hazard or simply uncomfortable for individuals with mobility issues.
- Customisation: Most retailers offer standard sizing that doesn't account for the specific proportions required for different types of disabilities and impairments.
After browsing Oorvi’s stunning online catalogue, we narrowed it down to two specific designs that we liked. With a mix of hope and nerves, we reached out to Oorvi. We asked the question: “Is it possible to alter a lengha to accommodate our specific needs?"
The Next Steps
When the email arrived from Oorvi, she understood and acknowledged the specific challenges that come with traditional Asian wedding outfits, and feeling comfortable with ease of movement is important to her. She was eager to help us customise her design for us. The idea that we could have something both elegant and accessible without having to sacrifice one for the other left her feeling excited.
We arranged to have a video call to discuss approximate costs, measurements, fabric weights, and the alterations that would need to be made to make our outfit wedding-ready. Oorvi offers the convenience of virtual measurements, which is a fantastic convenient solution for many people, but for Zubee, she knew that in-person would be better suited to ensure the measurements are accurate.
When you have a disability that affects mobility and posture, every inch matters. If you measure via a video call, you could miss the way a fabric sits while sitting versus standing, or how a waistband needs to be angled for maximum comfort. We needed to ensure that the fit was 100% accurate to avoid any discomfort during the wedding festivities abroad.
Reflecting On The Cost Of Customisation
A few days later, we arranged an in-person appointment at Oorvi’s boutique to discuss the details and costs. When we were given the initial quote for the lengha and bespoke alterations, Zubee was left feeling disheartened. Zubee's family naturally questioned the cost, knowing we could find something cheaper in Southall or back home in Pakistan, it’s often the more affordable option, which made sense financially, especially since Oorvi’s own designs are tailored in India, but as a disabled person, off-the-rack isn't just about style—it’s about accessibility.
While we agreed with them on the price difference, they know that traditional outfits don’t cater for disabled people. They felt this kind of money should be saved for a major milestone, like our own wedding or our siblings. They suggested she wear something that she already owned, arguing that she would only wear this new outfit once. Because we don't get to attend weddings or parties very often, she didn't want to get by in the same outfit for the main function, especially since Pakistani weddings consist of three separate events.
Zubee wanted something different from our usual traditional salwar kameez or dress. She didn’t actually own a lengha of her own, and she saw this as a rare opportunity to own a piece of couture that she liked. To us, this wasn't a "one time-wear" item; it is something that she could look forward to wearing again at future functions.
The lengha we decided to go with out of the two choices we made was a significant investment, and the alterations required an additional commitment. High-end design and specialised tailoring comes at a premium price, and the costs were higher than we had anticipated. It’s a challenge many in the disability community face, where necessary modifications can make already expensive items feel out of reach.
However, we weren't ready to give up on the outfit just yet. We negotiated, discussing what was possible within our budget while still respecting the designer's craft. After a few days of back-and-forth of negotiations with Oorvi and balancing difficult conversations at home, we reached an agreement that worked for everyone. With the details settled, Zubee headed in for her in-person measurement appointment. Oorvi took her time to measure each area and assess the drape and flow of the fabric, which made all the difference. It turned the technical process into a creative collaboration.
At the same time, we were left feeling worried because we did not have many days left before travelling for the wedding, and we hoped it would get done in time. It usually takes between 4 to 5 weeks for the bespoke design to take shape, and it goes through a 12-stage process, which you can view by following the link to Oorvi’s website Bespoke Services |OorviDesaiLondon. We only gave the designer 10 days in which to do it. We were lucky that it was completed in 7 days.
The Fitting And End Result
We had the final fitting, and seeing the transformation of this lengha from a standard design to our exclusive piece has been exciting. What started as a beautiful outfit is now a masterpiece of accessibility and style.
Zubee is Oorvi’s second disabled customer, and she is incredibly grateful to her for agreeing on the cost to make the purchase possible. By adapting the structure of the garment to fit her needs, she didn't just give us a beautiful outfit; she helped break down the barriers between disability and traditional fashion. We hope this leads the way for more traditional designers to see the importance of bespoke couture.
To get in touch with Oorvi, you can do so via the following methods:
Email: info@oorvidesai.co.uk
Phone: 07300 011160
Website
Instagram
More on Access My Events:
National Asian Wedding Show Featured Disabled Model On The Catwalk For The First Time
National Asian Wedding Show Backstage
A Day Of Pride And Celebration At The Birmingham Disability Festival
The Magic Of Riverdance 30th Anniversary Tour
18th December 2025
Welcome to Access My Events, personal blog. There are some shows that simply capture your heart, and for me, one of those is Riverdance, which I have seen a few times on TV while recording it. When I heard the iconic global sensation was returning to the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith to celebrate its 30th anniversary, I knew I had to be there. But this second viewing was far more than just a wonderful evening out; it was a deeply emotional experience, connecting the buzzing atmosphere of the present with a cherished memory from the past.
About ten years ago, I experienced the magic of Riverdance live for the first time with my late grandad. While I shared a deeply close bond with both my late grandparents, my grandad and I especially loved to watch this breathtaking form of dance together. I had already bought tickets well in advance for the tour, and I was planning to surprise him with a second chance to see the show at the same venue. As the lights dimmed and the stage lit up, the joy, the rhythm, and the heartfelt memories of that afternoon with him came flooding back, and I couldn’t hold back my tears. This time, my lovely mum accompanied me.
Join me as I share the excitement of the show and reflect on how this landmark production continues to move hearts, bridge generations, and keep the spirit of Irish dance—and the memories of those we love alive.
A Bit About Riverdance And How It Started
Riverdance is a theatrical show that primarily consists of traditional Irish music and dance, but it is presented with a spectacular, modern, and often globalised approach.
It is considered a worldwide entertainment phenomenon that is widely credited with revitalising and popularising Irish dance on the global stage.
Riverdance began as a powerful, seven-minute interval act during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest in Dublin. The performance, which featured Irish dancing champions Michael Flatley and Jean Butler with music by Bill Whelan. It received a standing ovation and became an instant global sensation.
The show quickly expanded into a full-length touring theatrical production, which premiered in Dublin in 1995. The show tells a story, often based on Irish history, blending traditional Irish dance (characterised by rapid, intricate footwork with the upper body held largely still) with international dance styles like Spanish Flamenco and American tap dance.
Booking Tickets
I remember when I tried to book access tickets for this show I couldn’t get through to speak to someone. I called the dedicated booking line numerous times and I also tried emailing them but no one replied. It was getting frustrating at this point because I knew getting accessible seating is limited and the spaces go very quickly. I had to get my hands on those tickets. I asked my colleague to give it a try from their end and see if they have any luck. It was still the same for them. I also went to the venue to get tickets and was told that they are closed and only open when shows are on, which was not very helpful. I tried to find a name of a manager online and I emailed them, but I got no response. Eventually, after weeks of trying I managed to get a response by email and somebody from the venue called me. This is one of the reasons why Access My Events exists to help remove barriers such as this and for event organisers and venues to improve accessibility. There are many other challenges, but this is just one of those I had to get through.
Venue Accessibility And Getting There
Luckily, the venue is not far from where I live, and my dad dropped us off just outside the Apollo at 6.30pm when the doors opened. We lined up for a few minutes in the disabled access queue and went up the ramp in my wheelchair straight inside. We had to get our bags checked by security staff and our tickets scanned. Once done, we were led into the hall and shown to our seats. We had a good view of the stage, which was great. The show wasn’t due to start until 7.30pm, so we had enough time to settle in and enjoy the atmosphere while people were arriving and taking their seats. The seats filled up, and the show started on time.
Riverdance 30 The New Generation
13th December 2025
The excitement built as the lights dimmed and the stage lit up with the VT showcasing Riverdance and how it started to how it has developed over the years, from the variation of the costumes, lighting and performances from past generations of the dance troupe to new faces taking Riverdance onto global stages into something truly special that captures the hearts of many people. The show had different scenes, each of which represented a journey through Irish history, with Riverdance performed by male and female dancers, performing individually and together. The show also featured singers, musicians, tap dancers and Flamenco.
Highlights From The Show
The main highlights for me where when the dancers performed individually and together, showcasing there incredible footwork with and without music. The precision, accuracy and timing is absolutely fantastic. I enjoyed the battle of the drummers on each side of the stage with a male dancer doing a Riverdance sequence. The drummers played, followed by a different sequence each time with each beat being different. The tap dancers were fantastic as well, competing with each other who can perform better. It was wonderful to watch.
The Grand Finale
As the applause and the sound of the vibrations that are created when the entire troupe join in line, in full synchronisation, the hall erupted with a standing ovation, and I felt a mix of bittersweet emotions. The show was brilliant! Every step, every move and energy on that stage was breathtaking. It was the kind of spectacle that leaves you buzzing long after the curtain falls.
The seat beside me was a heartfelt reminder of who wasn't there to share it with me. I know my grandad would have loved every second of it. I could practically hear his delighted voice during the fast-paced ensemble numbers and see him moving his finger to the rhythm and saying to me, "it’s just fantastic!" Every time the music went faster, I imagined his eyes shining with his lovely smile, which he always had when we watched Riverdance together. It was our thing, and experiencing it without him felt like beautiful sounds played with one missing beat. I love you, and I miss you, Agha Gee.❤️ (This is the name I used to address my grandad by as a form of respect and affection).
By Zubee Kibria
Founder of Access My Events
A Day That's Often Forgotten
4th December 2025
Join your hosts, Zubee, founder of Access My Events, and Raya, for a special new episode of My Voice podcast!
In this conversation, we dive into the significance of the International Day of Disabled People held on the 3rd of December every year. We discuss what we think about the day and what it means to us as two disabled individuals.
We also highlight some events and activities that are put on globally to celebrate and raise awareness for the deaf and disabled community.
Follow the link to listen on Spotify for insights, reflection, and celebration! A Day That's Often Forgotten My Voice Podcast.
We would love to know what you think of the day and if your organisation is hosting any specific events to celebrate.
Networking Event For Disabled Entreprenurs
14th October 22025
We attended an inspiring networking event for disabled entrepreneurs. The beautiful setting of the Science Museum provided the backdrop for a truly valuable session, proudly hosted by Small Business Britain and the Lilac Centre in partnership with Lloyds Bank.
It was a brilliant opportunity to connect with a diverse group of other disabled business owners and professionals. The atmosphere was vibrant, full of shared experiences, innovative ideas, and mutual support.
The event included lunch and a few engaging speeches highlighting the importance of inclusive entrepreneurship and the work of the Lilac Review. It was a chance to build relationships, exchange contact details, and form potential collaborations within a community that truly understands the unique challenges and incredible strengths of disabled founders.
Thank you to the Lilac Centre and Lloyds Bank for organising a great event. We have included a slideshow of a few images from the event. They show attendees chatting and networking with each other.