Apple’s Academy Live ‘26 Copenhagen
Apple’s Academy Live ‘26 brought together educators, innovators and technology leaders to explore the future of learning. Rory’s contribution focused on how accessibility and assistive technology can help create more inclusive opportunities for all learners.
ON THE MAIN STAGE
Apple’s Academy Live ‘26 in Copenhagen was an unforgettable milestone in Rory’s speaking journey. Taking to the main stage alongside Andrew Jewell (Apple Education, UK), Rory shared his story to a global audience, speaking about sight loss, accessibility, independence and the life-changing role of Apple technology.
Rory spoke about how Apple’s built-in accessibility features helped him continue with his education, rebuild confidence and approach learning in a new way. His message reminded the audience that accessibility should always be the starting point - the foundation - never an afterthought or an accommodation.
The response in Copenhagen was incredibly meaningful. Rory described stepping onto the stage to a rapturous round of applause and leaving to a standing ovation, a moment that will stay with him for a long time. Public reactions on LinkedIn also reflected the impact of his talk, with attendees describing his story as inspiring, powerful, memorable and a reminder of how technology can create real change when paired with people who care.
One attendee wrote that Rory’s message was the moment that stayed with them most, describing it as a real example of impact rather than just a technology story. Another reflected on Rory’s words that Apple technology is powerful, but people are what truly make the difference.
For Rory, Apple’s Academy Live 26 was not only a speaking opportunity, but a chance to show a global education community that accessibility can transform lives, create opportunity and help people not only survive, but truly live and thrive.
Key themes: Apple accessibility, global education, independence, inclusion, assistive technology, confidence and transforming barriers into bridges.
Apple’s Academy Live 26 in Copenhagen was an unforgettable milestone in Rory’s speaking journey. Taking to the main stage alongside Andrew Jewell (Apple Education, UK), Rory shared his story to a global audience, speaking about sight loss, accessibility, independence and the life-changing role of Apple technology.
Rory spoke about how Apple’s built-in accessibility features helped him continue with his education, rebuild confidence and approach learning in a new way. His message reminded the audience that accessibility should always be the starting point - the foundation - never an afterthought or an accommodation.
The response in Copenhagen was incredibly meaningful. Rory described stepping onto the stage to a rapturous round of applause and leaving to a standing ovation, a moment that will stay with him for a long time. Public reactions on LinkedIn also reflected the impact of his talk, with attendees describing his story as inspiring, powerful, memorable and a reminder of how technology can create real change when paired with people who care.
One attendee wrote that Rory’s message was the moment that stayed with them most, describing it as a real example of impact rather than just a technology story. Another reflected on Rory’s words that Apple technology is powerful, but people are what truly make the difference.
For Rory, Apple’s Academy Live 26 was not only a speaking opportunity, but a chance to show a global education community that accessibility can transform lives, create opportunity and help people not only survive, but truly live and thrive.
Key themes: Apple accessibility, global education, independence, inclusion, assistive technology, confidence and transforming barriers into bridges.
