Marilena di Coste has over 20 years of experience in disability advocacy. Under her leadership, Butterfly Foundation, the first UAE advocacy agency for people of determination, introduced the Inclusive Employment Ecosystem, transforming business employment networks for workplace inclusion and accessibility and significantly changing the public’s perception of those with disabilities. She is also a key enabler of the Department of Community Development Abu Dhabi Disability Strategy. Her impact spans the region as she drives social justice, and her advocacy programs redefine disability rights discourse, contributing to building connected local communities.