Hi everyone! I'm Clara Woods, and I'm 18 years old. I want to share something very important with you today.

Growing up, I've had some amazing experiences. I've held art exhibitions around the world, met incredible people like Alicia Keys, and even became an ambassador for the Create Opportunity campaign. But not everything has been easy.

I had a stroke before I was born, which means I can't speak, read, or write. However, I understand English, Portuguese, and Italian. Despite these challenges, I express myself through my art. Painting is my passion, and it's a big part of who I am.

Sometimes, people only see my disability and not who I really am. They might not notice my creativity, my dreams, and my hard work. It hurts when people focus on what I can't do instead of what I can. Everyone has something special to offer, and we all deserve to be valued for who we are.

My family and friends see the real me. They support me and help me grow. We all need people who believe in us and see our potential. I want to be seen for my talents, my achievements, and my personality.

So, please look at me! See beyond my disability and get to know the real Clara. I'm an artist, a dreamer, and a fighter. I have so much to share with the world. Let's all look at each other with open hearts and minds. Everyone has a unique story and special talents. Let's celebrate that!

Thank you for listening. Keep shining, and remember to see the person, not the disability.

See you soon!

Clara
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PS: I know you might be asking yourself, if I don't write, how am I writing this? I have an incredible mom who knows me inside out, and we discuss the content we will produce; she writes it and sends it for my approval. I can read it with my phone, and I have a good photographic memory, so I know some words and can answer back.

PS2: Inclusion Matters