Paula Tesoriero – fighting for equality https://t.co/Gw4ziYJFy1
— NZ Human Rights Commission (@NZHumanRights) December 16, 2017
The role of Disability Rights Commissioner was one she was destined for, she says.
Growing up with a disability in New Zealand, her journey as a paralympic athlete, her engagement with disability organisations, and her legal background made it a perfect fit.
“If I look back to the last 15-20 years I think all roads were leading to this role.”
Ultimately, though, she hopes there’ll be no need for a Disability Rights Commissioner.
“I hope in my five year-old son’s lifetime we will live in a world where everyone can participate in a fair way. I certainly hope there will not be a need for my role because disability is just business as usual.”
Tesoriero was born with amniotic banding, a condition where a baby’s limbs become entangled, restricting blood flow.
In her case, both legs and one hand were affected. She had many surgeries throughout her childhood and at 13 had a leg amputated below the knee.