Erika Butters is revolutionising disability rights through technology that puts decision-making power back where it belongs—with the individual.

Her platform Volition serves as a digital preference bank where people with disabilities can document, store, and share their likes, dislikes, and support needs, addressing a profound human rights issue that everyone deserves to make their own decisions, regardless of cognitive ability.

Erika walks us through the concept of supported decision-making, explaining how current legal frameworks often strip decision-making rights from people with intellectual disabilities. Rather than accepting this situation, she demonstrates how technology can bridge communication gaps by capturing preferences expressed through vocalizations, body language, and other non-verbal cues.

By giving individuals control over how their information is shared, Volition enhances what Māori culture calls "mana"—a person's standing, value, and inherent dignity. In a world where disabled people are often disempowered, this technology returns agency to those who need it most.

Visit volition.org.nz to learn more about this innovative platform that's changing how we think about decision-making, disability, and dignity.

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