Richard Barron shares his journey from being a QASA member to becoming the General Manager of the organisation
In April Richard Barron officially started as the General Manager for the QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA). While he has been involved with the organisation for many years, the new role will require more dedication and commitment – something Richard is more than happy to offer.
“I am thrilled about the chance and fully cognisant of the enormous responsibility that comes with realising the organisation’s vision,” Richard notes of his appointment. “I firmly believe that this role will offer both gratification and a sense of purpose as it involves positively impacting people’s lives, especially those who are most vulnerable.”
After nearly two decades in the corporate world, Richard wanted a change that would more directly impact the community and be meaningful to him. He shares: “I had plans in place to ‘retire’ from the corporate world within the next five years. The aim was to get involved in community projects.”
So, when the opportunity arose to apply for the General Manager position, Richard didn’t hesitate. A vigorous selection process was followed with many qualified candidates applying. However, Richard had an edge. He had benefitted from many of the QASA programmes and projects himself.
“I originate from a community where resources and opportunities were limited, especially for individuals with disabilities,” he recalls. “However, with the aid of QASA, I connected with appropriate networks and joined forces with people who shared my interests, motivated and supported me.”
“I utilised QASA’s assistive devices and Educational Fund; and even learned how to drive [through the Driving Ambitions Programme] with the aid of an adapted vehicle provided by them. All of these efforts contributed significantly to my development as a self-sufficient and productive member of society.”
Richard has an intimate understanding of the needs of the QASA members, as well as how the services and programmes on offer can impact on the lives of the members. Additionally, Richard has served on the QASA board for many years. Thus, he understands the challenges facing the organisation and its management.
As he takes on this new responsibility, Richard has a clear vision of what he would like the organisation’s future to include.
“I want to extend QASA’s reach, particularly in rural regions, to provide world-class service to our members with utmost efficiency; to uphold our outstanding governance standards and to become a sustainable organisation that holistically benefits future generations, in terms of humanistic, economic, social, and environmental aspects. I also want to create a pipeline of future leaders for QASA,” he says.
“I strongly believe that in order to bring a vision to life, you must first experience it. My personal experience has shown me the incredible potential that can be unlocked through QASA. With our well-organised structures and support systems, it is possible to reach your full potential and achieve your vision. I want to pay it forward and realise the potential of many others,” Richard adds.
Part of this vision includes encouraging QASA members to view the organisation as more than just a solution to a challenge, but as a community from which to benefit and give back; a place to grow, network and inspire others. QASA hopes to journey with its members through their lives.
Richard is proof of how such a journey can be greatly beneficial to the members. His advice to members: “Do not settle for the status quo and accept the norms of a society that views disabilities as a reason for pity and dependence on others. We, as individuals with unique gifts, talents and untapped potential, can contribute to making a positive difference in the world.
“To our members, don’t ever let your mind stop you from having a good time. Empower yourself to become the best version of who you can be. QASA will be there to assist you on the journey.”
