Wheelchair-bound grad defies odds completes HEART IT programme

Despite living with spastic cerebral palsy and facing daily mobility challenges, 24-year-old Javaughn Douglas is proving that determination can push past any obstacle.

The physically challenged graduate recently completed the Amber HEART Cohort 2026 programme, an IT training initiative run through a partnership between Amber Group and the HEART/NSTA Trust.

Douglas, who previously graduated from the University of the West Indies with a biotechnology degree, said his growing interest in technology pushed him to take a chance on the programme after spotting it online.

“I figured it was a good opportunity to test out that enjoyment for technology,” he shared.

But transitioning into the tech world was no easy task.

“The programme was kind of challenging because I didn't do much IT beyond CSEC,” Douglas admitted, explaining that he had to quickly learn software development, customer service, business principles and multiple digital systems.

Still, he refused to quit.

Douglas praised the HEART team and his classmates for supporting him throughout the programme, especially when physical barriers became difficult to navigate.

“They didn’t actually treat me any differently… They were very helpful,” he said.

The aspiring developer said one of his biggest victories came after spending nearly two months trying to solve a coding issue that repeatedly caused his app to fail.

“It always found a way to fail,” he recalled. “However, I eventually figured out what was the issue.”

For his final project, Douglas and his team developed a booking app designed to help small businesses better manage appointments and schedules.

Now, he hopes to use technology to help vulnerable groups, particularly persons living with disabilities.

“I want to build an app that makes it easier for the disabled and people in stressful situations to get the proper resources,” he said.

Douglas is also encouraging other persons with disabilities to pursue opportunities through HEART.

“Remember the disability shapes the experience, but it does not define your full ability,” he said.

- JIS

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