Wael Omer Abdin is a positive example for others - a corporate and commercial lawyer with  an emphasis on international arbitration . He  has 7 years post qualification experience and is a member of the International Bar Association and of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.

He was awarded, in 2005, a Chevening Scholarship, administered by the British Council, which enabled him to attend the University of Manchester to study Law.

Initially Wael chose to work in law because that is the area that allows him to defend the most disadvantaged people in society for example  by defending on human rights issues, freedom of speech, reforming business related laws to promote work for disadvantaged people and young entrepreneurs. This can be done only by enhancing the legal environment in the country. Wael contributes to this by increasing public awareness about the effect of the legal system on economic development, and by raising awareness by teaching at the university and publishing.

According to Wael, exposure to working with lawyers internationally is key to development in Africa. Throughout his studies and career he has sought out opportunities to progress. As a person with a disability he does not seek positive discrimination. In the short term he feels that it is important to raise awareness of disability, but hopefully in the longer term this will not be necessary.

Key Learning Points

• Identify needs regarding disability right from the outset
• Allocate time for planning that is required prior to the start of the work placement or project
• Address any issues of access
• Keep the focus on what both parties need to get the job done
• Maintain effective, open communication about specific needs
• Brief potential colleagues
• Be comfortable identifying and discussing need - don't skirt around the issue
• Be comfortable if things go wrong - and make corrections or adaptations