My name is Maariyaah, I am 29 years of age and I was born and live in Bradford. I work at Bradford People First as a trustee on the board and I work in the Campaigns team.

I live with my parents and my brother and sister. I enjoy socialising with people from all different backgrounds, religions and cultures and I love the diversity of my city. My hobbies include watching TV especially sport and my favourite is Formula 1. 

I have recently taken part in an advertising campaign for the charity Mencap, around learning disability and neurodiversity, something which I feel passionate about as I have experienced this myself.

I want to tell people about the things I AM able to do, not focus on what I can’t do.

I enjoyed being a part of this campaign, however, a few certain individuals felt it necessary to spoil this and write cruel and abusive comments.

Is this because I wear a scarf, my hijab?

Is this because I use a wheelchair?

In this modern world, where technology is available to everyone, it’s a shame some people choose to use it the wrong way by hurting other people’s feelings.

A woman with a red checked short and a headscarf smiling at the camera. She is sitting in a wheelchait in front of a dark nackground

What will it take for these few individuals to get a life of their own and not hide behind their phones and keyboards?

I would like to be able to sit with you face to face and try to understand your reasons for saying these things.

People do talk to me but don’t take the time to understand my words, people need to sit down with me and just talk. I used to have a development worker who sat and talked to me like a friend. About family, about friends, life, and my future. She saw me as a person and a friend. As an equal.

I am a kind person and would never want to hurt anyone.

Everyone has their own gift and talent and they should be proud of who they are, so please treat everyone with respect , dignity, and be kind.

I have so much to offer society.

Let me ask you this - What do YOU contribute?