Orbis - From Braille to Breakthroughs: Why Accessibility Must Be Core to Tech Innovation🌟

Did you know that Louis Braille invented the tactile writing system we now call Braille at just 15 years old? Born in 1809, he lost his sight as a child but refused to let that limit his potential. His revolutionary system of raised dots transformed literacy for millions of blind and visually impaired people. Special thanks to Friends of LSE in HK for co-organising an impactful and engaging Orbis Braille experience workshop with ICAAHK on 15 March 2025 and to Mr Chan-yau Chong for his inspiring sharing on how he never allowed his blindness to limit his fun or achievements.

As technology leaders, we have a responsibility—and an opportunity—to embed accessibility and DEI into our products, services, and cultures.

✅ 1 in 6 people globally live with a disability (WHO). Ignoring accessibility excludes talent, customers, and progress.

✅ Accessibility drives innovation - Features like voice assistants, closed captions, and screen readers weren’t just “nice-to-haves”—they became universal tools. Apple is a prime example of a tech leader who leads accessibility innovation. (Picture of Mr. Chong demonstrating how he uses his iPhone just like all of us)

✅ Ethics and economics align. Inclusive design isn’t just compliance; it’s a competitive advantage.

So, what can we do?

🔹 Lead with empathy: Involve diverse users in design processes.

🔹 Invest early: Bake accessibility into development cycles, not as an afterthought.

🔹 Educate teams: Normalize accessibility as a pillar of excellence, not a checkbox.

Louis Braille once said, “Access to communication in the widest sense is access to knowledge.” Today, that “communication” includes digital experiences. Let’s ensure no one is left behind.

To my fellow tech executives: Let’s honor Braille’s legacy by building a future where technology empowers everyone. The next breakthrough might come from the voices we’ve yet to include.Orbis - From Braille to Breakthroughs: Why Accessibility Must Be Core to Tech Innovation🌟