Rachel Barcellona - Bursting the autism bubble
Rachel is a radio host, model, spokesperson, and a fierce advocate for people with disabilities - particularly those with autism.
A senior at University of South Florida, double majoring in English and communications, Rachel advocates for those with disabilities through her non profit, The Ability Beyond Disabilities which inspires and helps those that have challenges to strive for their dreams as well as educating those who might not understand the challenges faced.
As an individual with autism, she often felt like she could not do many things. People with disabilities or anyone who is different are often targets for bullies as she was, but because of her life and social experience, she has overcome many challenges.
Today Rachel is a spokesperson for the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at the University of South Florida (CARD-USF) and also on their board. She also holds board positions at Unicorn Children’s Foundation, The Els Center for Excellence, Kulture City as well as the Dyspraxia Foundation USA, all of which provide services to individuals with disabilities. Her focus is now to bring awareness to individuals and companies to provide an opportunity for employment for people on the spectrum.
Rachel has performed the National Anthem at major sporting events and at Madison Square Garden. She also spoke at the United Nations on World Autism Day and recently filmed a short documentary for Sephora.
She has her own segment at a radio station in New York, and is currently working on a series of fantasy novels. Rachel is also no stranger to beauty pageants, and has just be named runner up Miss Florida.
Mentions:
Website - https://rachelbarcellona.com/
Tampa Children’s Museum - https://glazermuseum.org/
Tampa History Museum - https://www.tampabayhistorycenter.org/
Video - In Search Of Me - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_nvq2PgQ0o
Video - Teens With Guts - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6lLGf5kbxM
Socials:
Facebook - Rachel Barcellona
Facebook Page - Ability Beyond Disabilities
Instagram - rachelbarcellona
Twitter - @barcellonaR
LinkedIn - Rachel Barcellona
