We are excited to announce that Richard Barron has joined the QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA) as its General Manager from 1 April 2023. He has been involved in the organisation for many years through various roles from a member to a board member.
“I originate from a community where resources and opportunities were limited, especially for individuals with disabilities,” Richard reflects. “However, with the aid of QASA, I connected with appropriate networks and joined forces with people who shared my interests, motivated and supported me.
“I utilised the QASA assistive devices programme, educational fund, and even learned how to drive with the aid of an adapted vehicle provided by them. All of these efforts contributed significantly to my development as a self-sufficient and productive member of society.”
Richard spent nearly two decades working in the corporate world. During this same time he served the organisation as a board member for several years. When the opportunity arose for him to take on more responsibility, he took it.
“The aim was to get involved in community projects,” Richard notes about his “retirement” from the corporate world. “I am thrilled about the chance, and am fully cognisant of the enormous responsibility that comes with realising the organisation’s vision.
“I firmly believe that this role will offer both gratification and a sense of purpose, as it involves positively impacting people’s lives, especially those who are most vulnerable,” he continues.
As Richard takes on this new leadership position, he has a vision of how he would like to drive the organisation. He explains: “I want to extend QASA’s reach, particularly in rural regions, to provide world-class services to our members with utmost efficiency; to uphold our outstanding governance standards; and, to become a sustainable organisation that holistically benefits future generations, in terms of humanistic, economic, social, and environmental aspects.”
“I strongly believe that in order to bring a vision to life, you must first experience it. My personal experience has shown me the incredible potential that can be unlocked through QASA. With our well-organised structures and support systems, it is possible to reach your full potential and achieve your vision. I want to pay it forward and realise the potential of many others,” he adds.
Richard would like people with disabilities to know that they can participate, contribute and make a difference in the world. He shares: “Do not settle for the status quo, and accept the norm of a society that views disabilities as a reason to be pitied and dependence on others. We, are individuals with unique gifts, talents, and untapped potential, can contribute to making a positive difference in the world.”
He concludes: “To our members, don’t ever let your mind stop you from having a good time. Empower yourself to become the best version of who you can be. QASA will be there to assist you on the journey.”
Richard is my brother, I am witness to his incredible strength. Since the day of his accident, he has always been positive, willing to grow, teachable, open to opportunities, even guiding us, his loved ones, as we often didn’t know how to go about certain situations. Richard’s determination, his kindness, his strength, his resilience and tenacity is so inspiring and admirable. I am beyond excited and truly proud of my brother.
Richard was a brilliant Corporate employee; his technological ability is far beyond many of the “able” people in the business; but his potential was not fully realised bcos “able” people could not comprehend his vision. I look forward to seeing his “magic” come to life in making a difference, where it matters🙏🏼
So proud of you dit is n riem onder my hart. Veels geluk en alle sterkte
Veels geluk Richard, Baie geluk in your new endeavor. Very very proud of you. May God’s blessings and favor bestow upon you now and forever.