Charlotte Milburn

Condition: Bilateral Coloboma, Nystagmus, Astigmatism,and Photophobia

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1. What is your profession and why did you decide to choose this field?

I have just finished my degree at university and I hope to go into a job that enables me to work with children and young people with visual impairment. I would love to help to make a difference in their lives and give them opportunities to access different activities and experiences in order for them to thrive.

Dance is also such a huge part of my life and has been since I was about 6 years old. I'm very grateful for the amazing opportunities I've been given over the years, from being on Team England Adaptive Abilities Pom, to teaching and facilitating dance classes.

2. What is the most rewarding thing about what you do?

I've done lots of volunteering in the past and I absolutely love meeting new people and hearing their stories. I find it so rewarding to make new connections with people and learn from each other. I’ve been teaching dance for several years and I find it very rewarding. Seeing people progress and achieve new skills is really great to watch!

3. What is your advice to all the other VIP around the world who don't believe they can be successful in the area of their interest because of their disability?

There is ALWAYS a way to get around something. People may be negative about what you want to achieve in life due to your visual impairment, but going out there and showing that your differences do not stop you from achieving your goals is such an amazing feeling. Do the things that make you happy, regardless of what others may perceive to not be possible.