Hi, I'm Jye Swinson.
People see me and say hello, then talk over me to my mum or support workers because they think I can't communicate. But I can.
I love my family, friends, music, dancing, performing, dressing up and role playing.
And I'm a proud International Day of People with Disability Ambassador for 2026.
I communicate through my iPad using Proloquo2Go, using gestures, sign and chat boards.
They help me to share my thoughts, feelings, wants, and needs with the people around me.
Sometimes I just need a little extra time to process and respond. But with patience, I can let you know what I'm thinking.
Growing up, I was often stared at, misunderstood, and left out.
Without words, sensory overload and difficulty sitting still meant missing out sometimes.
Sometimes people treat me differently because I communicate differently, or they see my disability first.
People think I'm just my disability, or I can't understand what they are saying because I don't use speech, but I can. I use my iPad to share my voice.
Talk to me directly, give me time. I have lots to say. I'm actually a funny guy.
International Day of People with Disability is important because it brings awareness, encourages inclusion, and reminds us that we are equals who value connection, friendship, and belonging.
Everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, included, and valued.
Being different doesn't mean we are less. People with disabilities have so much to give, so much to say, and so much joy to share. Just give us the chance to shine.
In his video, IDPwD 2026 Ambassador Jye Swinson takes centre stage to tell his story in his own way. Using his tablet to communicate, Jye says, ‘People think I’m just my disability or I can’t understand’. By sharing his experience, Jye wants to normalise different ways of communicating so everyone feels included.
This video is available in Auslan and audio described formats.