My name is Daniela Caraman, and I am 25 years old. I have cerebral palsy and a locomotor disability, which means that I move either with a mobility walker or with someone’s physical support. This condition has been part of my life since childhood and has taught me perseverance and a solution-oriented mindset. My parents always had a clear vision: that I should grow up in an environment where I could develop my potential without limits imposed by society. At 5 I started kindergarten, and at 7 I began school in my community, just like any other child.
Since adolescence, I have actively sought opportunities that challenged me and allowed me to be involved in community life. I participated in various projects, connected with people, learned to collaborate, and confidently express my views. I was not interested only in initiatives dedicated exclusively to persons with disabilities. I was drawn to projects that created value for everyone. Many times, I was the only person with a mobility disability and the youngest participant, which never intimidated me. On the contrary, it fueled my curiosity and ambition.
In 2018, I created an English communication club for children through a project I wrote myself and for which I obtained funding. It was one of the first proofs that ideas can become reality when they are well-designed and supported.
In 2021, I took part in the “Combatem Stigma cu Stil” campaign organized by UNFPA Moldova-a significant step for the visibility of persons with disabilities in the fashion industry. Moldovan designers created adapted collections, a first for the Republic of Moldova and an example of inclusive collaboration.
In September 2025, I walked the runway at the “Frumusețe fără limite – Fashion Show.” It was an experience filled with energy and creativity. By being on that stage together with other persons with disabilities, we demonstrated that style, personality, and inner strength are not defined by physical limitations. I spoke about accessibility, equal opportunities, and participation, and I walked alongside Doina Danielean in an event that brought together communities, professionals, and people with a shared vision.
In everything I do—whether as a student, colleague, translator, or intern—I bring attention to human rights, accessibility, and inclusion. These are values I live by, not topics I address occasionally.
I graduated from the Faculty of Letters at the Moldova State University, specializing in translation and interpretation, and later completed a Master’s in Public Relations and Advertising. I complemented my formal education with courses in languages, communication, public speaking, and various trainings.
The academic path was not always easy due to the lack of accessibility within Moldovan universities. At the Faculty of Letters, schedules were arranged so that classes took place on the ground floor, while at the Faculty of Journalism—located on the fourth floor—the elevators were not functional. Despite these challenges, I continued my studies, finding solutions, support, and motivation. For me, education is a field worth investing in, regardless of the obstacles.
I got my first job in my third year of university, when I became an intern at a bank. At the end of the internship, I received a job offer and worked for more than three years as a translator in the Marketing Department - an invaluable professional experience.
When I decided to look for a new job in January 2024, I entered a complex recruitment process where I faced bias and discrimination. Together with the Motivation Association of Moldova, I sent CVs, attended interviews, and often received contradictory feedback—praise for my skills, but rejection in the end. This experience motivated me to better understand the labor market and to continue searching for a place where competencies matter more than physical barriers.
This is how I applied for the United Nations Diversity Internship Programme. I had been following this programme for years, but only in 2025 did the timing align. I was selected as an intern at UNICEF Moldova, and the experience has been excellent from the very first interview. The flexible schedule and hybrid work model fit me perfectly. I am now a Disability Inclusion Intern, contributing to the development of a more inclusive approach towards children and youth with disabilities. I work in a professional, accessible, and results-oriented environment where I feel appreciated and useful.
I believe that each stage of life is an opportunity to learn. My disability has never stopped me; it has only offered me a different perspective. I cannot control everything, but I can control how I respond, how I grow, and how I contribute to my community. And that is enough to keep moving forward with determination.
