David Constantine MBE is a world-renowned expert in disability design. Co-founder of Motivation, a pioneering UK charity and social enterprise, he is highly sought after by public, private and non-profit organisations for his profound knowledge of the purple economy. With the value of the purple pound in excess of £249 billion, David’s knowledge of the market and the needs of those who comprise it is highly valuable. When booked for speaking engagements he covers topics, including embracing disability, the importance and value of design, the role of charity in changing people’s lives and more.
Starting his career in agriculture, David’s journey was cut short after an accident resulted in him becoming a quadriplegic wheelchair user at 21. He switched paths and enrolled at the Oxford Polytechnic to study Computer Studies, Accountancy and Finance. After graduating, he landed a position with IBM as a Junior Programmer. Whilst spending time in the design department at IBM, he realised the value of good design for people with disabilities, inspiring him to study for a Master’s in Computer Related Design at the Royal College of Art.
David went on to win a prize for designing a low-cost wheelchair for developing countries with colleague Simon Gue. The duo then teamed up with Richard Frost and travelled to India and Bangladesh to test the relevance of their design. Upon completing their excursion, they formed Motivation. Gradually, they built the organisation to become a leading design-led, non-governmental institution, providing mobility products in low-income countries. Their innovative wheelchair design was met with praise in Asia, Africa, Central America, and Eastern Europe, showcasing them as industry leaders. As pioneers in the industry, they are regularly called upon by international organisations to provide cost-effective products and services.
Having provided independence for countless wheelchair users, in acknowledgement of his contributions to services for disability, David was awarded an MBE in the Queens New Year’s Honours list in 2010. Establishing himself as a thought leader in the disability and wheelchair sector over the last three decades, David’s expertise is highly valuable to organisations looking for an in-depth insight into products and services members of the purple economy would use. Seeking to make life fairer, inclusive, and better for people with disabilities, David shares his expertise on engaging a wider audience, good design and the pitfalls disability charities should avoid in his speaking engagements.
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