“Accessibility isn’t about a line of code, it’s about people”

Speaker. Author. CEO. Dad. Blind.

Diagnosed with a degenerative eye condition in college, John spent years hiding his blindness—afraid of being seen as less capable. His journey took him across more than 30 countries in search of purpose, belonging, and identity. But it wasn’t until he embraced his disability that he discovered the power of authenticity—and the strength that comes from turning lived experience into leadership.

John’s journey has taken him far beyond expectations—literally and figuratively. He has summitted Mount Kilimanjaro, rafted the Nile River, and explored the world, defying every narrative about what blind people can’t do. These experiences have shaped his worldview and reinforced his belief that people of all abilities deserve the freedom—and support—to live fully and fearlessly.

Today, John is the Co-founder and CEO of Ablr, a disability inclusion company breaking down barriers to employment and digital access. He is also the author of Don’t Ask the Blind Guy for Directions: A 30,000-Mile Journey for Love, Confidence, and a Sense of Belonging—a powerful memoir that invites readers to see disability through a new lens.

As a TEDx speaker and in-demand keynote speaker, John shares his message with companies and communities around the world. His talk, The IDEA of Belonging, challenges organizations to move beyond performative inclusion and build cultures where people of all abilities feel seen, heard, and valued.

John also serves on the board of the Aravind Eye Foundation, which has provided eye care to over 50 million people and is a global model for mission-driven business. His involvement has deepened his commitment to eliminating barriers—not just through access, but through sustainable systems that change lives.

A passionate believer in creativity and the power of the arts, John also serves on the board of the United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County, supporting programs that spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of inclusive leaders.
Whether he’s on stage, in the boardroom, or working with students and CEOs alike, John is driven by one goal: helping others see what’s possible—when we build a world where everyone belongs.

“Proximity builds empathy—and empathy fuels lasting change.”

Meet Nicole Samuel

Nicole is John’s wife and trusted partner in purpose.

By day she is a technology and data consultant, bringing expertise in data, analytics, and AI and helping leaders craft future-ready strategies and turn complex investments into real value results. Passionate about the intersection of technology and workforce development, she’s known for bridging innovation with impact.

In addition to her full-time work, Nicole supports John’s speaking engagements and book outreach—often being the first point of contact for those looking to collaborate. Whether coordinating events or building relationships, she brings intention, warmth, and clarity to every interaction.

Nicole and John met during their MBA program and now team up daily—both at home raising their two boys and in their shared mission to inspire change. She is incredibly proud of her sons’ passion for disability awareness and the change they are inspiring in their own classrooms.

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