Priyaneet Kainth, Inclusion, Accessibility and Disability coach and leader, Trustee at Victoria College and a passionate advocate who is determined to raise awareness of neuromuscular conditions to help others. She was diagnosed with Charcot-Marie Tooth (CMT), a genetic condition affecting the peripheral nerves, in 1991. She has been volunteering with Muscular Dystrophy UK.
Speaking to Asian Voice about her journey from diagnosis to acceptance of living with an invisible, incurable disability, Priyaneet shared, “I was born with a degenerative condition, and growing up, I didn’t see role models like me—only my supportive parents and sister. I’ve always been ambitious and never let my disability define me. My family never held me back, which gave me the freedom to explore life fully. Over time, I’ve been on a journey of self-love and self-care. I faced bullying in school and judgement at work, from comments about my adaptive desk to criticism for wearing trainers. But I realised ignorance stems from lack of awareness. That’s when I began using my voice, not just for myself, but for others too. I joined network groups and started volunteering with Muscular Dystrophy UK and other charities, which empowered me to share my story and advocate for change.”
“My disability, despite the pain and limitations, is my strength. It's given me resilience, creativity, and purpose. I’ve learned to adapt, solve problems, and reset goals. I want to break the stigma, especially in the South Asian community, where disabled women are often underestimated or confined to traditional roles. That’s not the life I choose. I’ve been lucky to have a strong support system—but I built it by sharing my story and reaching out. Today, I see my disability as my superpower, not a burden, but the force that drives my purpose and has even reshaped my career, “she added.
Priyaneet emphasised that coaching isn’t just about seeking help it’s about the desire to move forward. She said, “Ask yourself: Do you truly want to grow? Are you willing to be uncomfortable and put in the effort? Because real change must come from within. No advice from others can help unless you're ready. Progress is slow and often tough, but pain doesn’t have to define your future. You always have a choice to move forward. It starts with finding the right support, whether that’s a coach, therapist, friend, or family member.”
Underscoring the shift in how corporates approach inclusion, Priyaneet said, “Real change starts with individuals. Policies help, but lasting impact comes from a mind-set shift. You don’t need to be a leader to model inclusive behaviour—it’s in how you speak, listen, and show up every day. Inclusion isn’t a switch you turn on at work and off at home; it’s about being a conscious, whole person. Ask yourself: Am I being inclusive? Don’t wait for others to educate you—seek out different perspectives, even if they challenge you. Growth comes from discomfort.”
She added, “Be the change and ask the right questions: Have we considered accessibility? Have we included diverse views? Inclusion begins with curiosity and self-learning. Just like we explore new cultures while travelling, we should bring that same openness to the workplace. Everyone’s story matters; it's about listening, learning, and valuing what each person brings.”
