Stories Archives | Sightsavers

Maryanne stands outside the UN building in New York during COSP-18.

Stories / Disability and inclusion /

Maryanne is excelling in her career after joining two Sightsavers programmes that helped to boost her employability skills.

Abubakarr stands in front of an ornate wooden door.

Stories / Disability and inclusion /

From begging on the streets of Sierra Leone to attending an inclusive school, Abubakarr is now realising his full potential and on the path to a bright future.

Stories / Disability and inclusion /

A photo round-up of our favourite moments from the third summit, where world leaders and activists united to improve the lives of people with disabilities.

IT Bridge Academy graduate Lyne stands with her arms crossed.

Stories / Disability and inclusion /

IT Bridge Academy graduate Lyne shares how she overcame barriers and disability discrimination to secure her dream job as a technical support engineer.

Caitríona stands in a snowy Arctic landscape.

Stories / Fundraising /

Caitríona Ní Threasaigh took part in the First Light for Sight challenge in January 2024 and raised more than €8,000 for Sightsavers Ireland.

Caliha stands outside, with a tree behind her.

Stories / Disability and inclusion /

Cataracts stopped Caliha from working as a farmer, and without her family’s support, she struggled to access treatment. Caliha was able to have an operation and is now earning a living again.

Maria smiles after her successful operation for advanced trachoma. She's standing outside her home, which has a thatched roof.

Stories / Disability and inclusion /

Maria was able to return to work as a basket weaver and support her family after receiving treatment for advanced trachoma.

Lydia, an IT Bridge Academy graduate, smiles while standing in front of the Kenyan flag.

Stories / Disability and inclusion /

Lydia is a graduate of Sightsavers’ IT Bridge Academy and a disability rights activist. She works in the executive office of the president of Kenya.

Stories / Disability and inclusion /

Entrepreneur Michelle uses her experience of living with a disability to mentor other young women through Sightsavers’ economic empowerment project in Zimbabwe.

Mary smiling after her cataract operation.

Stories / Eye health /

After her cataract operation, Mary’s future is full of hope and possibilities. See how Sightsavers helped to transform her life.

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Stories

"I’ve gained skills and self-confidence"

Abubakarr’s story: “Being blind has made me a stronger person”

In pictures: Sightsavers at the Global Disability Summit 2025

From classroom to career: Lyne’s story

“Witnessing the first sunrise after the polar night was beautiful. The colours looked extraordinary”

“Usually, men tell their wives not to go to hospital”

“Now my sight has improved, I hope to earn more”

“Women don’t get easy access to employment opportunities”

“I’ve always wanted to have a very big business”

Mary’s story: “I’m able to see!”