DISABILITY AND LEADERSHIP IN THE RECREATIONAL SPORT OF SCUBA DIVING

This presentation is based my doctoral work in disability and leadership in the recreational sport of scuba diving. Should a person with a disability be able to pursue leadership positions in this industry to the same degree as a person without a disability? How does scuba diving empower individuals with and without disabilities?  This presentation discusses how the scuba diving industry can spearhead participation in adaptive sports, community and disability inclusion, and disability and leadership for persons with disabilities worldwide. In addition, it discusses how a leader with a disability brings value and creatively to this industry. Lastly this presentation cites examples of individuals with disabilities who have achieved greater heights because of their scuba diving certification.