Carla-Mauch
Since she began working with the disabled at sixteen, Carla Mauch has been inspired by the possibility of living in a society that perceives “difference” as an asset, rather than a burden. She is doing this by promoting the rights of the disabled with a model that utilizes schools as catalysts for societal change. Brazilian society still struggles with many inequalities; some entrenched in social structures. Schools, are central institutions that – according to the Brazilian Constitution – should ensure equal access. In reality, the education system focuses on serving an idealized student and excludes those who are different. Carla Mauch’s organization “More Differences” implements programs that utilize the laws of inclusion for the disabled as opportunities for companies and schools to not only adapt their routines and structures to meet their demands, but to also learn to value the multifaceted differences inherent in humans. 142 schools serve as centers of mobilization of community involvement and as disseminators of public policies in the areas of education, health, work, planning, building works, and leisure. Support networks for teachers and therapists, combined with reforms, family involvement, as well as other initiatives, are part of her systematic approach.
