Local Guide Natalka Ryaba (@NatalkaR) lives in Kyiv, Ukraine, and is interested in wheelchair accessibility. She believes that everyone is equal and deserves to have equal conditions. Natalka adds accessibility information to Google Maps through photos, videos, and reviews because she believes that this makes a difference in the lives of people with disabilities.
Why are you interested in accessibility? Is there a particular area in which you are interested in the most (wheelchair accessibility, vision accessibility, etc.)?
I believe that people with disabilities should have a full life. Children with disabilities should [be able to] play on playgrounds with other children, attend regular kindergartens and schools. Adults should [be able to] visit theaters, museums, shops, and parks. In my country, it wasn’t acceptable to talk about people with disabilities for a long time. They only lived between their house and the hospital, which I think is terrible. I want to change this situation.
I’m most interested in wheelchair accessibility. The most important thing [for me] is how many ramps there are in my city, and whether there are wheelchair accessible entrances or toilets.
Why are you passionate about accessibility information being shown on Google Maps?
I want people with disabilities to be able to plan their trips to shops, restaurants, parks, and theaters. Thanks to the [accessibility] information on Google Maps, they can do it. Detailed photographs provide an opportunity to understand how accessible an institution is. When people read reviews by Local Guides, they can find helpful information about accessibility.
What have you done to help add accessibility information or generate visibility for accessibility information to/for Google Maps?
Every time I add accessibility information, I take pictures of ramps, shoot videos, and describe in detail how suitable a place is for people with disabilities.
What area (mobility, vision, hearing, etc.) are you most interested in improving?
I’m most interested in mobility. I travel a lot and see how in other countries people with disabilities travel [freely], which is amazing. They can use public transport, trains, and airplanes because they know about the accessibility of train stations, airports, and [bus stops]. To be mobile is to be free.
What’s your favorite Google Maps feature?
I really like answering questions on Google Maps. This allows me to describe the place more accurately and it helps people. I also like that any of us can add reviews and rate places.
What do you wish other Local Guides knew about accessibility?
I’d like every Local Guide to know that they’re able to improve the lives of people with disabilities. One photo, one video, one review can change a life.
What one feature would you like to see on Google Maps?
I’d really like to see the accessibility sign on Google Maps. This way, people will know whether a place is accessible or not. In addition, it’d be nice if the level of accessibility is specified. For example, there is a ramp but no toilet [for wheelchair users].
What’s your tip for finding your passion through the Local Guides program?
The Local Guides program is a lifestyle. You need to understand what exactly you’re interested in adding to Maps. I like to write about accessibility not only for people with disabilities but also for parents with children and people with pets.
Are there any posts on Connect or meet-ups you’ve hosted that help demonstrate your contributions around accessibility to Local Guides, Google Maps and your community?
Of course! Here they are:
- “Dogs also have rights”
- “All children need childhood”
- “One day in Trakai: funny travel with child”
- “Discover Vilnius: accessible, kid-friendly and dog friendly city”
- “[RECAP] The First Ukrainian Women LG Summit”
- “[RECAP] Historic and Modern Exactly”
Are you passionate about making Maps more inclusive? Tell us how you’re making a positive impact in the comments below.
