As co-founders of Consultable, Beth and Emily are passionate about helping businesses take an inclusive approach to the way they engage with customers and deliver services, by improving access to spaces, products and platforms.
Dr Beth O’Brien
Born with a rare form of dwarfism, Beth has used an electric wheelchair since starting school. With a PhD in Social Psychology, Beth currently works in the public service supporting young people’s mental health and wellbeing. While Beth enjoys an independent, active life, she often faces challenges accessing venues, events, products and services due to her wheelchair, decreased mobility and short reach.
No longer wanting to adapt her lifestyle and expectations to fit into a world that doesn’t consider her needs, Beth’s advocacy journey began in 2019. Since then, Beth has been involved in discussions with key business leaders about creating inclusive spaces; highlighted the importance of normalising disability on Channel 10’s The Project; contributed to articles in Vogue Australia about inclusive fashion; and spoken about the importance of inclusive education and creating environments with all people in mind at conferences with other high-profile advocates. At her appearance at the Disability Royal Commission, Beth advocated for a systemic shift in the way workplaces plan for and respond to supporting employees with a disability.
Emily Wilkinson
With a background in Communication Design and a career in the public service, Emily is passionate about connecting with people through art and design, and contributing to positive social change. Emily’s curiosity for inclusive fashion was sparked through early conversations with Beth in their shared workplace. What began as a sewing challenge for Emily quickly paved the way for in-depth discussions with Beth about physical and social barriers to inclusion, and how Beth can formalise the valuable insights and advice that come with her unique lived experience.
Together, Beth and Emily are Consultable.
