Loading...


Umi Asaka

A professional headshot of Umi Asaka. Umi is a Japanese woman, she has long black hair and is wearing a dark green kimono. She is smiling.

Kairakahau, Kaiwhakahaere akoraka
Research and Education

(Kāti Hapani (Japanese))

Kia ora, I am a Researcher at the Donald Beasley Institute. My primary role is coordinating the Disabled Person-Led Monitoring of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. I am also involved in a number of other research projects including Developing Te Tiriti Based and Twin-Track response to Family and Sexual Violence Experienced by Wāhine Whaikaha, D/deaf and Disabled Women.

I graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Otago in 2019. I am currently pursuing a Masters in Arts (Human Services, Thesis) at the University of Otago part-time, along with my research role at DBI. As a proud second-generation disabled person, I am passionate about amplifying the voices of lived experiences and intersectional experiences within community building and at decision making tables.

When I am not working, I enjoy cooking and eating with friends and family, going out into nature and listening to live music.

Eden, Umi, and Brigit are in front of a large ASID conference poster in Australia. Umi is in her wheelchair and Eden and Brigit are standing behind her.
A graduation picture of Umi and her parents. Umi is in her wheelchair and is in her graduation gown and holding a bunch of flowers. Umi's Mum is also in a wheelchair and is wearing a green skirt, a purple top and a large scarf. Umi's Dad is wearing a blac
Umi presenting at the ASID conference in Australia. Umi is in her wheelchair up on the stage, in front of a large projector screen.