My Renaissance: Launching Accessible Technology Solutions in 2016
The Leap of Faith: From Dream to Reality
In 2016, at the age of 24, I took a leap that would fundamentally reshape my life: I launched Accessible Technology Solutions. It was a terrifying, exhilarating, and deeply personal decision. The happiness of finally putting my vision into action was immense. There was an unparalleled sense of purpose that coursed through me, a feeling that this wasn’t just another job, but a true calling. Every small victory, from securing the first client to a successful tech setup, felt like a monumental achievement.
The Unfiltered Reality: Not Always Sunshine and Roses
Of course, running your own business isn’t always picture-perfect. I vividly remember the “not-so-good” days. The sheer dread of tackling my own taxes, the meticulous process of invoicing clients, or the agonizing quiet of slow periods – these were the moments that tested my resolve. There were times I questioned if I’d made the right decision, if the financial uncertainties were worth the emotional rollercoaster. But even through these challenges, a deeper truth began to emerge.
Beyond the Pay Packet: Finding My Purpose and Reclaiming My Life
Accessible Technology Solutions has become far more than just a source of income; it’s my personal renaissance. Now, at 33, it has empowered me to make more informed decisions about my life, putting my mental health at the forefront. The flexibility and autonomy of being my own boss have allowed me to prioritize exercise, a crucial element in my well-being. I’m now on target to smash my goal of being 73 kg, a journey fueled by renewed focus and self-care.
This business has also strengthened my connection with loved ones. The ability to manage my own time means more precious moments with my beloved mum, whose unwavering love and support, especially during the early years, have been my bedrock. It means more quality time with the special people in my life, like holding my nephew or spending time with one of my other nephews. They say money doesn’t buy happiness, and this is 100% true. I would never go back to making obscene amounts of money at the expense of my health or these small, profound joys—the gym, or being on a gorgeous date with a wonderful young lady. It’s taken me a while, but I can say 100% life is good right now.
Building a Legacy: Impact, Resilience, and Independence
What truly drives me is the profound realization that I’m making a tangible difference in someone’s life, big or small. The notion that if I die tomorrow, I’ll be 100% happy with what I’ve put into the world through Accessible Technology Solutions is a powerful motivator. I’ve learned to silence the negative thoughts and ignore those who tried to put me down in the past because of my weight or other factors. Their negativity is no longer part of my discourse.
Being a small business owner also brings a deep sense of security. It means I will always be able to put bread on the table – for myself, my family, and for any future kids. And critically, it means I can never be dictated to by a boss. I experienced this firsthand during Covid-19, working as a software support person. While the pay was good, I was deeply unhappy with my body image and the lack of control over my time and well-being. Accessible Technology Solutions is my independence, my shield against those constraints.
Sharing the Joy: Technology, Insight, and Breaking Barriers
I am super excited to be able to share technology with other people with disabilities, to break down barriers, and to show that tech can give great insight, no matter if you are 5 or 95. This firm is more than just a small business; it’s about fostering total joy and empowerment through technology.
A Heartfelt Thank You: The Pillars of My Journey
My journey wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible people who have shaped me:
- To my wonderful mum: Thank you for your endless love and support, especially during those formative early years.
- To my sister: Thank you for being there day in and day out when I was younger, a constant presence.
- To my brother: Your words reach me, and I draw immense strength from your positivity, especially when it comes to complex technical topics like advanced maths and obscure coding.
- To my past teachers at Collingwood College: Thank you to Lisa, my Year 7/Year 9 science and maths teacher; Vince, my Year 10 maths teacher; and Luke, my Year 11 English teacher. I’m forgetting countless others, including the special education teachers who taught me invaluable screen-reading skills, Braille, and all the other mentors who guided me at Collingwood College.
- To the late Bill James: William James, who passed away in 2017, was one of the most wonderful teachers ever to work at RMIT University. It is thanks to his excellent teachings in product marketing and other business subjects that I am able to run my business so well. Getting a GPA of 4.0 under Bill James was not only amazing, but he had a unique skill of making my disability vanish in his classroom. Rest in peace, sir.
- And finally, to my many clients: Both past and present, thank you for believing in my dream of making the world a better place through Accessible Technology Solutions!
Thank you for being part of my narrative towards total joy!
If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you or your organization, please visit us on the web: www.sadamahmed.com