On 7 December 2023, I delivered a keynote speech at the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) in my hometown. The experience was both exhilarating and deeply meaningful, allowing me to share my journey of reflection, reframing, and reinvention through trauma.
A Warm Welcome on Home Turf
When I arrived, the TAC staff community made me feel incredibly welcome. Seeing how my story resonated with the audience was heartening, particularly given the nature of TAC's work. The general manager's positive response to my talk about creating safe spaces to flourish was especially encouraging.
Tackling the Tough Questions
During the Q&A session, I was posed a challenging question that initially caught me off guard: "It's all well and good to talk about reinvention from the space that you are in, Caleb, but what about for those of us who are not at your capacity and not likely to reach your capacity?" This query struck a chord, bringing to the forefront an issue I've grappled with for years - the privilege of 'passing as normal'.
Acknowledging Privilege and Invisible Disabilities
I've always been acutely aware of my privileges: being a white male in Australia, a first-world country, affords me numerous advantages. However, this question reminded me of the importance of highlighting the stories that lie beneath the surface. As a performer who often makes things look easy, I realised the need to acknowledge this privilidge then address the complexities of navigating life with privileges post-trauma.
The Importance of S.A.F.E. Spaces
The TAC event provided a safe environment for me to share my story and raise awareness about invisible disabilities. It reinforced the significance of creating safe spaces when engaging with anyone, regardless of their visible or invisible challenges.
Gratitude and Acknowledgements
I want to thank Natalie McColl (Executive General Manager of People, Culture and Engagement) and Serap Potocki (Inclusion and Diversity Lead) for their support and for fostering such an inclusive environment. I'm also grateful to my speaker representatives at Saxton Speakers for this opportunity.
Reflections on Imposter Syndrome
This experience has once again revealed the imposter syndrome that often accompanies navigating life with privileges post-trauma. I plan to explore this topic further in future blog posts, as I believe it's crucial to discuss these nuanced experiences openly.
In conclusion, my keynote at TAC was more than just a speaking engagement; it was a powerful reminder of the importance of creating safe spaces, acknowledging our privileges, and continuing to have open dialogues about invisible disabilities and trauma. These conversations are vital in fostering a more inclusive and understanding society for all.
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