Global Disability Summit 2025

Nicole Vivien Watson, Chief Executive of Surface Area Dance Theatre, had the honour of participating in the Global Disability Summit 2025, held in Berlin on the 2nd and 3rd of April 2025. A significant moment from the Summit was the inspiring address by MP Sir Stephen Timms, Minister of State for Social Security and Disability, who emphasised the UK’s steadfast commitment to advancing equality and representation for disabled individuals globally.

During this pivotal event, Nicole also had the exceptional opportunity to connect with Loan Luu, pictured here, from Mission Alliance Vietnam. With a remarkable career spanning since 1996, Loan has been a tireless advocate for inclusive education and climate resilience in the Mekong region of southern Vietnam.

The third Global Disability Summit (GDS) co-hosted by the International Disability Alliance (IDA), the Government of Germany, and the Government of Jordan, attracted a powerful assembly of over 4,500 participants from 100 countries. This landmark event culminated in 800 new commitments from governments, development actors, the private sector, and civil society, signalling a transformative movement towards a more inclusive world.