By Bilaal Ali
My name is Bilaal, I’m a determined and passionate blind student pursuing a degree in Accounting and Finance. I’d like to share my journey which is marked by ambition, resilience, and the unshakeable belief that sight loss should never be a barrier to success.
I am currently completing a work placement as a Junior Accountant at Nicholson and Co, where I have been gaining real-world experience in essential accounting tasks like bookkeeping, tax returns, and report writing. But beyond just learning how to work with numbers, I’m navigating an industry that often overlooks the importance of accessibility.
Access to Work: A key enabler
I have to credit much of my independence and success in the workplace to the UK government’s Access to Work scheme. Through this vital support, I have access to assistive technology, mobility training, and tools such as a liquid level indicator — which even allows me to safely make a cup of tea at work. It’s these seemingly simple yet crucial tools that make it possible for me to fully participate in everyday tasks, from navigating the office building independently to managing my workload efficiently.
The support I’ve received through Access to Work has empowered me. It means I’m not constantly relying on someone else. I can move through the workplace confidently, focus on my goals, and prove my capabilities.
Growing through experience
In addition to my role at Nicholson and Co, I took part in a prestigious internship programme run by the Thomas Pocklington Trust — where I was one of just 100 interns selected nationwide. The experience was transformative. I engaged in training courses that expanded my skills in presenting, teamwork, and communication — all of which are crucial for any career, especially in finance and business.
I worked on group projects, did public speaking, and learned how to collaborate effectively with others. These skills aren’t just for the workplace – they’re life skills. And for me, they’ve been central in helping me shape and reach my aspirations.
Advocating for others
My passion doesn’t stop at personal growth. I’m a dedicated advocate for change and support for other visually impaired individuals. As a Young Ambassador for the Royal Society for Blind Children (RSBC), a member of the Sight Loss Council, and a Trustee for BBS UK, I’m is using my voice to improve accessibility and inclusion for blind and partially sighted people across the UK.
I speak at events, contribute to policy discussions, and share my lived experience to help shape a more inclusive future.
Inspiring the next generation
Through every role I take on – whether it’s crunching numbers, giving a presentation, or mentoring others — it carries the same message: blindness is not a limitation, it’s a different way of experiencing the world.
My ultimate goal is to inspire other blind and visually impaired people to go into work and believe in their potential, with the right support, training, and confidence, we can succeed in any field – including finance, which can seem daunting but is absolutely possible.
The power of support
My journey proves just how essential the right support systems are. From Access to Work, to inclusive internships, to mentorship and advocacy, each piece of this journey has played a role in my development and success.
Inclusion isn’t a bonus, it’s a necessity. And when we invest in accessibility, everyone benefits.
As I continue to build my career, I hope to inspire others, and advocate for systemic change and I hope others can be reminded that talent, ambition, and determination are not defined by disability — but by opportunity.
Remember: with the right support, no ambition is out of reach.
