Published: 12 October 2023
Why Media, a leading design and marketing agency with offices in Hertfordshire, London, Alicante, Spain and Northern Italy, proudly reaffirms its dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace where disabilities are never a limitation and opportunities are boundless. The agency's very own Agency Partner, Claire White, serves as an inspiring embodiment of this commitment, showcasing unwavering resilience and determination in the face of multiple disabilities.
Claire underwent a life-changing cornea transplant in August 2023.
Claire's journey began at the tender age of two when she was diagnosed with Juvenile Chronic Arthritis, also known as Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, a condition that presented significant physical challenges. Simultaneously, Claire was registered as partially sighted due to Stills Disease, a connective tissue disorder associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis, which causes essential issues with parts of the eye, including the retina, optic nerve and cornea. Her early years were marked by extensive treatments, operations, and drug trials, all while under the care of the renowned Great Ormond Street Hospital. Claire's indomitable spirit led her to strive for a "normal life" despite the formidable obstacles she faced.
In 2009, Claire embarked on her career at Why Media, then a part of their former partner company Fluid HK. She underwent numerous surgeries throughout the years, including a hip replacement, total ankle fusion, lens implants, and, most recently, a cornea transplant in August—Claire's remarkable journey within Why Media has been inspirational despite the ongoing health challenges.
Claire has undergone surgeries at Why Media, including a total rebuild of her ankle in 201.
Why Media's commitment to inclusivity is unwavering. the agency's fully inclusive policy ensures that no candidate is dismissed from consideration based on disabilities or the need for special assistance. For Claire, this commitment has translated into flexible working hours, the ability to work remotely, and access to specialised equipment such as touchscreen computers and tablet devices designed to support individuals with visual impairments. This comprehensive support has empowered Claire to thrive in her career, breaking down barriers.
Claire's steadfast resolve and "can-do" attitude have fueled her meteoric rise over the past 14 years at Why Media. She began as a Marketing Intern and, in 2022, earned a well-deserved promotion to Agency Partner, a testament to her dedication and abilities.
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Claire admires the support and understanding of her team.
Claire White, Agency Partner at Why Media, shared her perspective on her journey: "My journey at Why challenges have marked Media, but it's the unwavering support and the belief in my abilities that have made all the difference. I am a living testament that disabilities should never define one's career prospects. As with all health issues, there are good days and bad, but knowing that I have the full support of every team member within the agency is incredibly comforting and appreciated. As a teenager living with Arthritis and Stills Disease in the ’90s and early 2000s, there was never much talk about the opportunities that living with disabilities gives you, instead the focus was on rapping people up with cotton walls and just accepting that they probably won’t have a career - This isn’t the case! Young people with mobility and sight limitations are often overlooked, but little do you know that these strong individuals are some of the most resilient, driven and focused individuals and have a much better judgement of character than those who have not been judged on the way they look, walk or see things. These attributes are rare and can be truly invaluable to companies,”
Carl Piper, Agency Partner at Why Media, praised Claire's unyielding spirit, stating, "Claire is an inspiration to all of us. She doesn't let her disabilities stand in the way of her ambitions or career growth. Her attitude is a testament to the inclusive and empowering environment we strive to create at Why Media."
Remarkably, many of Claire's clients are unaware of the extent of her health conditions, underscoring her professionalism and dedication to delivering outstanding results.
As we celebrate World Sight Day and World Arthritis Day on October 12th, Why Media takes this opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to inclusivity, breaking down barriers, and showcasing the remarkable journey of Claire White as a shining example of what can be achieved when abilities are celebrated, and disabilities become mere footnotes in the success story.
Why Media is an award-winning design, marketing, digital communications and PR agency offering tailored solutions to companies on a global scale. We have extensive experience in delivering design and marketing services to a spectrum of companies, including professional services, property companies, financial institutions and shopping centres. We have offices in London UK, Hertford UK, Finestrat, Spain & Brescia, Italy.
Marketing Contact
Name: Claire White
E-Mail: claire@whymedia.com
Telephone: 020 3007 6002
