This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. In her talk, Rebecca spoke about how stereotypes can stop individuals and businesses achieving their potential and the patterns of discrimination against people with disabilities in the workplace, which she called the 'glass doors to opportunities'. In the UK alone, there are around two million people who have the potential to do an excellent job in their work but are being overlooked because they have disabilities. Rebecca's message to companies is that starting to see the person and human being inside each individual should be our quest, i.e. what organisations should be looking for. She suggested that organisations be made to focus more on culture, using an example of Google, a company which embraces diversity. Alongside, Rebecca's message to the audience was also to 'step up for your dream and break through those glass doors'.

Rebecca Armstrong is a leadership development consultant and international speaker who works with progressive organisations to help them maximise profit through leadership and embracing diversity. In this TEDx talk she shares how patterns and stereotypes can stop individuals and businesses achieving their potential.Rebecca lives in Durham and is currently completing a doctorate in the subject of leadership and diversity.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)