What happens when the world refuses to see who you really are?

When Khadija Gbla was diagnosed as autistic in their 30s, it brought relief — and grief for all the years spent masking, misunderstood. In this powerful episode, they reflect on cultural stigma, disability, racism, and how becoming a parent helped them begin to heal and rewrite the story.

Born in Sierra Leone and resettled in Australia as a teenager, Khadija’s story is one of survival, identity, and fierce love — especially for their son, Sammy, who is also autistic.

With honesty and strength, Khadija shares how racism, ableism and cultural stigma collided throughout their life, and how they’re now rewriting the narrative — for themselves and for the next generation.

“I wish I had had somebody like me to realise that Black girls can also be disabled.”

Listen now to hear a story of strength, claiming identity, and the power of self-acceptance and understanding.

Download the transcript for Black people can be disabled: Breaking the cycle of disability stereotypes

For Trudy and Chris, love wasn’t about grand gestures. It was in the little things - train rides to nowhere, shared jokes, holding hands, or quietly sitting side by side in the sun.

In this moving episode of the Purple Orange Podcast, we share the story of a relationship shaped by love, disability, and intimacy. Trudy and Chris remind us that life’s most meaningful moments are often small, deliberate, and full of care.

This story also honours Trudy, who passed away before the episode was released. Her husband, Chris, wanted the world to hear it.

Trudy's warmth, humour, and spirit live on through her words.

Have you ever tried to support someone but ended up making them uncomfortable instead? 😬

Join Belle Owen and Dr. Ellen Fraser-Barbour, two proud disabled women, as they share powerful stories and insights about:

• The difference between performing allyship vs living it
• Why listening is more powerful than fixing
• How curiosity and humility open up space for real inclusion
• The invisible impact of everyday actions

This episode will challenge assumptions and help build your confidence to be a better ally- in workplaces, communities, and everyday life.

Read the transcript for Unseen, but felt: The art of allyship

Watch Unseen, but felt: The art of allyship on Youtube