A Message from Steph
Hi, I’m Stephanae McCoy, and welcome to Bold Blind Beauty – a media advocacy platform celebrating the diverse and all-encompassing community of individuals navigating life on the blindness spectrum worldwide. Our mission is to cultivate empowerment, create connections, and shatter barriers together.
Before my sight loss, I was experiencing significant personal and professional growth. A major promotion at a Big Four accounting firm marked a career high, and marrying my best friend while renovating our first home signaled a wonderful new chapter. I had big dreams for what lay ahead.
The onset of sight loss profoundly impacted my self-confidence, and coming to terms with life as a blind woman was a significant struggle. I faced overwhelming feelings of isolation, fear, and depression, which temporarily halted my progress and aspirations. For a deeper understanding of this part of my journey, you can find an interview on the ADNA YouTube Channel:
“The ADNA Presents: Stephanae McCoy discusses how and why she created Bold Blind Beauty.”
Having spent years advocating for my son and mother, I surprisingly struggled to advocate for myself after losing my sight. My connection with the blind community proved to be the pivotal moment in embracing my new journey.
Individuals navigating life on the blindness spectrum face significant hurdles: societal barriers, limiting stereotypes, and widespread misconceptions about blindness. Transforming these systemic obstacles hinges on A.I.R. (Access, Inclusion, and Representation)™. Equipped with the necessary tools, training, resources, and consistent advocacy, we can achieve remarkably productive and fulfilling lives.
Work with us to break down barriers and elevate our collective humanity through a shift in perspective. Learn more about what drives us – our values, mission, and vision – on our website.
~ Steph
Values, Mission & Vision
Bold Blind Beauty’s values, “E.P.I.C + A.I.R.” are a framework built on Equity, Passion, Impact, Courage, Access, Inclusion, and Representation. It aims to create positive change by valuing individuals, breaking down barriers, and cultivating inclusive environments where diverse voices are heard and everyone belongs.
Equity
We see, hear, and value Individuals.
Passion
Breaking down barriers drives us.
Impact
We create positive change through our actions.
Courage
Advocating for change takes bold action.
Access
A foundation for equality.
Inclusion
Cultivating environments where everyone belongs.
Representation
Elevating diverse voices.
Access, Inclusion, and RepresentationTM
To promote greater equity and enable individuals with disabilities to fully participate and flourish, Bold Blind Beauty developed A.I.R. (Access, Inclusion, and Representation)™. This element is vital for people with disabilities to not only survive but thrive.
Mission Statement
Bold Blind Beauty’s mission is to improve humanity by promoting Access, Inclusion, and Representation (A.I.R.)TM, transforming the way we perceive and connect with one another.
Vision Statement
Bold Blind Beauty envisions a world where blind and visually impaired individuals shatter barriers, thrive in their passions, and claim equal representation in every part of life.
What People Are Saying
“Profound”
You help many people with your honest and authentic thoughts. Not just those who are sight-impaired. Your words about ‘ the paradox of being strong yet fragile’ being part of the human condition is quite profound for me. – Robyn
“Heart Warming”
Your page warms my heart! I have a blind 5-year-old, and she wants to do everything when she grows up! Something (like driving) she knows may not happen, but she’s positive about everything. – Mrs. Marshall
“Inclusive”
I am legally blind, disabled, and most importantly, isolated and totally misunderstood! The invisible disability no one understands…. nor can I truly explain…. Thank you for giving me a place of inclusion! – Deebra