“Life can be lived to the fullest, even in a wheelchair.” A story of resilience and fight for equal rights

The European Independent Living Day reminds us of the importance of persons with disabilities’ social integration. Millions of persons with disabilities around the world, including in the Republic of Moldova, continue to face physical, social, and attitudinal barriers that limit their access to education, employment, healthcare, and independent living.

Yet, persons with disabilities thrive in various fields and are a continuous source of inspiration through their courage and daily resilience. UN Women invites you to meet Ludmila Iachim, Executive Director of the “MOTIVATIE” Association in Moldova, an organization that, for more than two decades, has been working to improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities.

Ludmila was only 13 years old when a viral infection changed her life. “I went to sleep with a backache and woke up paralyzed.” It was 1991. Since then, she has lived and worked from a wheelchair, transforming her personal experience into a source of strength and support for hundreds of persons with disabilities. “Disability is not a sentence, but a challenge that makes you stronger,” says Ludmila.

Due to prevailing stereotypes and lack of information, it took Ludmila five years to come to terms with her condition. “It was very difficult. At that time, there was no access to information or support. But once I accepted my disability and the situation, I understood that life is beautiful,” she shared.

Determined to continue her education, Ludmila enrolled in the Faculty of Psychology and Special Psychopedagogy at the “Ion Creangă” State Pedagogical University in Chișinău. While working in the Vadul lui Vodă, she rented accommodation in the capital during exam sessions. “I had to ask strangers for help to board public transport, which was inaccessible. Still, I never missed a class. I went to university not only to study but also to educate my peers - to show them that a person with a disability can live independently, pursue higher education, and have a normal daily routine. I guess that was my first act of civic activism.”

Ludmila first connected with the “MOTIVATIE” Association at a summer camp for children and youth with disabilities in 2001. Later, she had the opportunity to take part in an exchange program in Poland, where she met many people with disabilities leading active lives.

Over time, Ludmila became more involved in the association’s work. In 2005, she joined the organization as a peer educator, and thirteen years later, she became its Executive Director.

“This year marks 20 years since I started working in this field,” she says. “It’s been a journey of growth, learning, and inspiration - from colleagues, partners, and the people we serve.” In 2023, at the age of 45, Ludmila obtained her driver’s license. “It was more a necessity than a choice, because public transport and taxis still aren't adapted to our needs. I’ve had a license for two years now, and it has given me a new level of independence.”

Despite daily challenges, Ludmila insists the wheelchair is not a barrier. “I drive, I work, I take care of my home and six cats. I’m a fulfilled, active woman.”

UN Women Moldova actively supports “MOTIVATIE” Association, where Ludmila and her colleagues promote not only the social and professional inclusion of persons with disabilities but also a model of independent and dignified living. Dozens of women and girls with disabilities have taken part in training sessions aimed at raising awareness about their rights and preventing gender-based violence under the EU-funded programme “EU4GenderEquality: Together Against Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based Violence,” implemented jointly by UN Women and UNFPA.

“Women and girls with disabilities face an even higher risk of abuse and violence,” Ludmila notes. “That’s why our trainings cover healthy relationships, consent, and where to turn for help.” ​

According to Moldova’s National Bureau of Statistics, as of January 1, 2024, the country had 161,900 registered persons with disabilities, representing 6.7% of the population. Nearly half (47.6%) are women.

This publication is produced in the framework of the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence" programme (phase 2), funded by the European Union, implemented jointly by UN Women and UNFPA.