Meet Our Team: Jenny Lindström Beijar
Meet Jenny Lindström Beijar, founder of Our Normal, and her journey and vision for a society where everyone belongs.
Professional background:
Jenny brings a wealth of experience in management consulting, specializing in change management and digital transformation across diverse sectors. Her commitment to sustainability and social justice has been a constant throughout her career, aligning with her passion for meaningful work.
The birth of Our Normal:
Jenny’s personal journey began as a mother to a child born with Down syndrome. Her profound commitment to advocating for her daughter’s future led to the founding of Our Normal. It’s a journey born from love, purpose, and a determination to change the world for the better.
The vision of belonging:
At Our Normal, the vision is clear: “A society where everyone belongs – true inclusion for every child, for every family.” Jenny emphasizes that true inclusion means participation on equal footing, going beyond rhetoric, and taking concrete actions. It’s about broadening perspectives and ensuring that also parents and siblings are part of the conversation.
Collaborating for inclusion:
Our Normal collaborates with businesses and organizations to promote inclusion and universal design. The organization gathers user feedback from its diverse network, offering insights that lead to more inclusive products and services. It’s about making inclusivity a core aspect of design and development.
Impactful success stories:
Jenny highlights the joy of witnessing “Aha!” moments when designers and developers realize that inclusivity benefits everyone. Their innovative solutions, born from collaboration, have the potential to transform industries. Importantly, they debunk the myth that accessibility is cost-prohibitive.
Overcoming challenges:
Jenny acknowledges challenges in navigating a novel field. While enthusiasm is abundant, a lack of clear ownership and budget allocation within organizations can be hurdles. However, positive signs, including increased attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion, indicate progress.
The future of Our Normal:
Jenny’s ambitions for Our Normal are high. It’s not just a platform but a movement. A more structured approach to universal design is gaining traction and fostering internal engagement within companies. Looking ahead, Our Normal aims to expand its community, both nationally and internationally, and share its expertise and insights with companies seeking to embrace inclusivity.
Jenny’s dedication to a more inclusive world serves as an inspiration for us all!