For Learning Disability Awareness Week, Rosa shares her journey of learning, independence, and helping others—showing how, with the right support, people can grow, thrive, and make a real difference in their communities.

My name is Rosa, and I have a learning disability. It’s something I’ve lived with all my life, but it has never stopped me from wanting to learn, grow, and be part of my community.

Growing up, I knew I could do things—I just had to do them in my own way. I learned to adapt. For example, at school I found using a computer much easier than writing by hand, and that helped me express myself. I attended special schools where everyone had different needs, and we supported each other. It wasn’t always easy, but I learned that there is no one right way to learn—just the way that works for you.

After school, I went to Derwen College in Shropshire, where I studied animal care. I’ve always loved animals, and I was proud to complete my course over three years. That experience helped me grow in confidence and independence. When I finished college, I made the decision to move into supported living at Liseux Trust. I wanted to be more independent and take control of my own life—and I’m really glad I did. I joined at the same time as one of my friends from the college, Irina, who is still here now, like me.

“I could do things—I just had to do them in a way that worked for me.”

When I first started living here, I was very quiet. I didn’t talk much or share how I felt. But over the years, I’ve changed. I’ve become more confident, more open, and better at understanding my own emotions. I may take a bit longer to process things sometimes, but once I understand, I really understand—I “get it,” as I like to say.

Learning has always been important to me, and I’ve continued going to college for many years, at the moment I am going to Erdington Adult Education Centre. I recently passed my maths, which I’m very proud of, and I’m looking at new courses like video editing. I also volunteer and have worked in different roles over the years, including charity shops and a day centre, where I spent many happy years helping elderly people with dementia. It was stressful at times but it was rewarding.

One of the things I enjoy most is organising workshops and events. I’ve helped run wellbeing sessions, arts and crafts activities, and even helped organise talent shows and pantos. I love bringing people together. For me, it’s about helping others feel good, get out of the house, and enjoy themselves. It also helps me with my own wellbeing—I like being busy, and I like feeling that I’m making a difference.

“I like helping people feel happy—and that helps me too.”

Helping people is really important to me. I like to see people happy—or to help them find their happiness. It gives me a sense of purpose. I also enjoy drama and performing, and I’d love to keep doing more of that in the future.

Looking back, I can see how far I’ve come. From a quiet person who struggled to speak up, to someone who runs activities, learns new skills, and supports others. My journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has been worth it.

For Learnng Disability Awareness Week, the theme is “Do You See Me?” And my answer is this: I hope people see not just my disability, but my strengths, my kindness, and my determination. I am always learning, always growing, and always trying to be the best version of myself.