Defined by the Ability, Not the Disability

Name: Yvette Cabrera

Current Status: Alumni

Graduation Year: 2014

From a very young age, Yvette Cabrera (BA ‘14) has had to learn how to adapt and deal with her serious physical disability of visual impairment. Undaunted and undeterred, Yvette successfully navigated through the public education system, ultimately graduating from HIU with a degree in Human Services. Since then, Yvette has taken on the title of “entrepreneur,” working as a disability consultant, life coach, and author, sharing her positivity and encouragement with others.

In her most recent endeavor, Cabrera has published a book about her experiences and shines a light on the exclusions faced by those with disabilities, entitled Living Proof: Defined by the Ability, Not the Disability. She was motivated to write this book by her transition from life as a student to life after graduation. Yvette sensed an internal nudge to share her suggestions on how to bridge the gap between those with disabilities and the general population. She centers the book on the importance of self-advocacy and self-awareness, both concepts she practices herself as well as with her clients.

“The approach I've taken to my career has further developed the leadership skills that sprouted while I studied at HIU,” Yvette reflects. “My goal is to lead by example in hopes of motivating others so that they too can pursue the path they feel called to by God.” 

In 2018, Cabrera will pursue her Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology to become a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). After earning her MA, she plans to start a nonprofit organization whose mission would be to aide individuals from both general and disabled populations in reaching inclusiveness.