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Raquel Caires Januario
- 09/12/2024
A New Chapter with Sedulous: Empowering Marginalised Voices and Building Lasting Change
For me, joining Sedulous is more than a career milestone—it’s a deeply personal commitment to advancing social justice and equity in ways that resonate with my lived experience. As a disabled, neurodivergent mother from a Portuguese ethnic background, I’ve navigated systems that often fail to include people like me. These challenges have shaped my passion for social change and my drive to amplify voices that have long been marginalised.
At Sedulous, my mission is to create systems that empower underrepresented communities to thrive. Having experienced the frustration of being overlooked, I am determined to ensure that those excluded from critical conversations about their lives and futures are not only heard but central to the solutions we build. My role allows me to channel my personal insights and professional expertise into tangible actions that make a difference.
Sedulous is a values-driven organisation that embodies everything I stand for: equity, inclusion, and the belief in every individual’s potential. As a female-led, disability-led, and neurodiversity-led company, Sedulous breaks the mold, actively decolonising traditional research methods and placing lived experiences at the forefront. We don’t just develop programs; we co-create solutions with those directly impacted.
This ethos drew me in, aligning perfectly with my personal and professional values. It’s a privilege to be part of an organisation that reshapes how we approach research and social impact, fostering collaboration with the people and communities who know their needs best.
As Projects & Operations Director, I oversee the daily operations of Sedulous, ensuring that each project is executed with integrity, efficiency, and purpose. My work focuses on refining systems, streamlining processes, and supporting our teams to deliver high-quality outcomes.
What sets my approach apart is the fusion of my lived experience with my professional background. Having faced barriers firsthand, I bring a unique perspective to addressing the challenges marginalised communities face. My goal is to find innovative, community-centered solutions that not only meet immediate needs but create lasting impact.
One of the highlights of my role has been leading initiatives like the Cost of Living & Multiple Long-Term Conditions 2 (QOLITY) project. By integrating community voices and embracing creative methodologies—such as podcasts and collages—we’ve ensured that our research truly reflects the lived experiences of those most affected. Projects like these exemplify how we transform insights into meaningful actions, paving the way for systemic change.
What excites me most about Sedulous is the opportunity to drive collective impact. Collaborating with communities, stakeholders, and partners, we’re addressing urgent issues while laying the groundwork for a society that genuinely values diversity and inclusion. This is not just about making incremental progress—it’s about reshaping systems and creating a world where everyone, regardless of background, ability, or circumstance, has the opportunity to thrive.
I’m inspired by the work we’re doing and the legacy we’re building. At Sedulous, we don’t just respond to challenges; we actively reimagine and rebuild a more equitable future. Knowing that the impact we create today will resonate for generations to come fuels my dedication
As I begin this new chapter, I invite you to connect with me and join us in our mission to create meaningful change. Whether you want to collaborate, share your insights, or follow our progress, I believe in the power of community and partnership to drive transformation.
Together, we can amplify voices, dismantle systemic barriers, and build a world where every individual is heard, valued, and empowered. Let’s work together to make a difference—one community at a time.