Stories

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

"I’ve gained skills and self-confidence"

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.

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

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.

A woman in a wheelchair speaks into a microphone alongside a panel. The Global Disability logo is in the background.

In pictures: Sightsavers at the Global Disability Summit 2025

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.

From classroom to career: Lyne’s story

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

A headshot of Michelle staring into the camera.

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

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.

Mary’s story: “I’m able to see!”

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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