The West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC), nestled beside the University of Ghana Medical Centre, came alive with a rare and inspiring blend of celebration and recognition.
The Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD), in commemoration of the National Day of Persons with Disabilities, held its inaugural Excellence Awards Ceremony (a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward inclusive development).
The event, which brought together local and international champions of disability rights, served as a vibrant stage to honour individuals and organisations whose efforts have tangibly advanced the inclusion, rights, accessibility, and empowerment of persons with disabilities. Among the honourees, one name echoed most powerfully throughout the afternoon event — Auberon Jeleel Odoom, recipient of the highest honour of the afternoon, the GFD STAR Award.
This prestigious award was conferred on Jeleel for his groundbreaking and sustained work in disability rights advocacy across Ghana, Africa, and globally.
Described as a “pathfinder and pacesetter,” Jeleel’s award citation lauded his exceptional leadership, dedication, and technical acumen in forging inclusive systems that centre the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities.
A disability rights advocate, policy advisor, and inclusion expert, Jeleel holds a Master’s degree in Disability Rights from the University of Pretoria, graduating with distinction. His expertise bridges grassroots engagement and high-level policy formulation, and his work cuts across thematic areas including inclusive education, employment, social protection, and humanitarian action.
On the national front, Jeleel has played an instrumental role in drafting Ghana’s first Disability Inclusion Coordination Mechanism, a policy framework designed to harmonise multi-sectoral interventions and promote inter-ministerial accountability. He also chaired the development of Ghana’s first-ever Disability Manifesto for Political Parties, a bold advocacy document that is now a model across Africa for ensuring political accountability on disability inclusion.
In addition to his work with the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD), Jeleel has consulted for various government ministries and international bodies including UNICEF and UNDP. His input into programmes such as cash transfer monitoring in Ghana’s drought-prone northern regions has ensured that humanitarian interventions are accessible and equitable for persons with disabilities.
Jeleel’s influence also extends beyond Ghana’s borders. He currently serves as Secretary General of the African Disability Forum and chairs the board of Inclusion Africa, where he has shaped continental policies and protocols aligned with the African Union’s vision. For nearly a decade, he has also represented Africa on the Council of Inclusion International, amplifying African perspectives on intellectual and developmental disabilities at global platforms.
Perhaps most striking is his dedication to mentorship and capacity building. Jeleel continues to mentor young disability advocates and regularly facilitates training on inclusive policies and rights-based advocacy. His work in inclusive education has led to the integration of disability modules into national teacher training curricula, while his influence in the area of inclusive employment continues to open doors for persons with disabilities in both public and private sectors.
In a moment filled with emotion, the GFD STAR Award was presented not just as a personal accolade, but as a symbol of what is possible when commitment meets compassion, and when expertise is paired with purpose.
The 2025 GFD Excellence Awards, and particularly the honouring of Auberon Jeleel Odoom, mark a new chapter in Ghana’s disability inclusion journey, one in which excellence is not only recognised but elevated as a national standard.
As the curtains closed on the ceremony, one truth stood tall: inclusive progress is real, and thanks to visionaries like Jeleel, it is here to stay.