Chloé is a versatile entrepreneur who tests venues for accessibility and creates inclusive content. Using a 360° camera mounted on her wheelchair, she captures accessibility from her own perspective. “This relieves a lot of stress for people with disabilities,” she explains. “Venues are often tested by people without disabilities, which means essential details are overlooked. My approach shows how you can actually move through a space.”

Testing at Oerol

Last summer, Chloé conducted research at Oerol, exploring how festivals can better meet the needs of visitors without disabilities in terms of inclusivity. Her research showed that visitors highly appreciate it when festivals display more inclusive images in their communications, such as on social media and websites. This not only raises awareness but also contributes to an inclusive image. A significant 80% of those surveyed indicated they would be more likely to purchase a ticket for a festival that visibly prioritizes accessibility, inclusive representation, and paid positions for people with disabilities.

“With this data, I can emphasize the importance of inclusivity and representation to potential clients and partners,” Chloé shares. She also learned a lot from other entrepreneurs who tested their innovations during Oerol. “I love discovering new innovations and asking questions about how things work. During the festival, I also gave advice to other entrepreneurs on how they could make their products more inclusive. I really enjoyed doing that.”

Overcome social isolation

Chloé’s personal experiences are a major motivation for her work. “During my time as a student, I underwent four knee surgeries, which made it difficult for me to walk. I noticed how hard it was to go out with friends, for example, because toilets were often only accessible via steep stairs.” These obstacles inspired her to put inclusivity on the map. Through her platform, she shares stories and practical tips to help people with disabilities overcome social isolation. “The best part of my work is when someone tells me that thanks to my tips, they dared to go out or went on a trip. That’s what I do it for,” she says proudly.

The benefits and challenges of freelancing

During her rehabilitation, Chloé discovered the benefits of working as a freelancer. “As a freelancer, I can set my own hours, which is essential because I often experience more pain in my legs in the mornings. You don’t always have that freedom with an employer,” she explains. At the same time, she faces challenges such as income limitations due to her entitlement to Wajong (disability benefits). “Also, sometimes people expect me to work for free because I have a disability. Thankfully, I’m slowly seeing changes in that regard.”

Despite these obstacles, Chloé remains optimistic. “I want to show people that there are always possibilities, even when it seems impossible. When I started my Instagram account Stick with Chloé, there were almost no people with visible disabilities on social media. Especially on English-language accounts, I saw how open people were about their disabilities, and that helped me accept my own disability more. Now, I’m also seeing more representation in the Netherlands, especially on TikTok, and that makes me so happy.”

Tips for future entrepreneurs

Chloé is eager to share her insights with other entrepreneurs with disabilities. Her main advice:

• Make smart use of networking events. “My wheelchair often works as an icebreaker, but an eye-catching item, like glittery shoes, can do the same.”
• Build relationships patiently. “On average, four to six conversations are needed to establish a paid collaboration. Always get a written agreement and follow up.”
• Account for extra time. “Plan 20% more time for deadlines and communicate this with your client. Unexpected physical issues can always arise.”
• Surround yourself with a strong professional and emotional network.
• Believe in your own value. “Don’t be discouraged by prejudices and find places where your talent is recognized.”

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Stick with Chloé’s test was made possibly by Fonds21, Stimuleringsfonds Creatieve Industrie, Oerol and DGTL.