In this leadership diary, Amy Low, CEO of AbilityNet, shares insights from a landmark week that combined unexpected recognition, sector-wide collaboration and the charity’s biggest TechShare Pro conference to date.
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The week I chose for my leadership diary isn’t typical. It includes the annual AbilityNet TechShare Pro event that brings people and organisations together around our vision of ‘A Digital World Accessible to All.’

As the week began, anticipation was running high as we made slightly panicked final arrangements for our biggest conference yet. My personal goals were clear: to welcome delegates, champion digital inclusion, celebrate innovation, and build connections with leaders and advocates who share our vision.

Monday: Unexpected recognition
As I scrolled through LinkedIn posts about the upcoming conference, I was surprised to see a post saying I’d been recognised by Computer Weekly as a Rising Star among the Most Influential Women in Tech 2025.

This honour was so unexpected! Having not followed a conventional route into Tech, I often feel something of an imposter (a common situation in our industry, which is addressed on a panel discussion at our conference). This lovely moment served as a reminder that the work we do battling for accessibility and inclusion, often behind the scenes, does not go unnoticed.

Tuesday: Excitement at the House of Lords

Tuesday’s official launch of TechShare Pro was held in the historic House of Lords. Lord Craig Mackinlay ‘The Bionic Lord’. hosted the event, sharing his personal experience with technology as part of his rehabilitation back into work after suffering a severe Sepsis infection which led to a quadruple amputation.

That day I also met with Minister Lloyd, Undersecretary of State for Department for Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT). Minister Lloyd is responsible for digital inclusion, digital skills, and disability, so our conversation spanned a range of pressing issues: the need for robust but proportionate accessibility regulation, the challenges faced by an ageing workforce and the persistent problem of inaccessible platforms.

Minister Lloyd spoke candidly about representation and career development, and we reflected on positive changes including how flexible working arrangements and AI are supporting disability inclusion.

We also discussed the Civil Service as a potential role model for disability inclusion, recognising both its progress and work still to be done. I shared how impressed I am by the work underway within the DSIT and the Government Digital Service to improve digital accessibility, and that I felt this work could benefit from greater public visibility.

Wednesday: TechShare Pro kicks off!
I delivered a keynote welcome at the start of a day that was filled with energy, creativity, and shared purpose. The conference themes were both meaty and relevant - AI and Accessibility, Neurodiversity, Accessibility Leadership and Customer Experience. The calibre of speakers and sponsors was impressive with brands including Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, HSBC, Barclays, NatWest, PwC and more.

One standout session was the adaptive fashion show, curated by paralympic athlete and model, Samanta Bullock, highlighting a dazzling display of clothing in which technology met artistry, proving that accessibility can and should be woven into every aspect of life including self-expression.

Thursday: Legislation, innovation, and education
Thursday’s conference sessions delved into the legislative landscape, exploring the latest developments in accessibility law and policy, including the European Accessibility Act. Experts shared insights on technology innovation, accessibility maturity, and the key role of education in driving change. A session on the Teach Access initiative showcased how partnerships with universities, industry, and advocacy groups are equipping the next generation with essential digital accessibility skills.

The day shone a light on inclusion progress being made, but also provided some sobering reminders of the challenges that remain. We concluded the day reflecting that the need for accessibility professionals continues to be significant, even if the work they do and the tools they can use become ever more sophisticated.

The sense of a community working together to innovate and solve crucial societal issues with the interests of disabled people in mind was palpable. I felt motivated to take this momentum and turn it into measurable action.

Friday: Inspiration for the year ahead
As the week drew to a close, I took time to reflect on what TechShare Pro helps to achieve. It has become more than just an event - it is a space where our community can draw strength from one another to sustain them in the year ahead. One of the things I was most proud of was people highlighting what a wonderful team of people we have at AbilityNet - I absolutely concur!

On a personal level, the recognition from delegates and the inspiring moments in the sessions reminded me of the power of collective action and the importance of celebrating milestones and successes. For our organisation, the week reaffirmed our commitment to innovation, collaboration, and the pursuit of accessibility for all and has provided me personally with redoubled energies to continue the charge in 2026.

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