Michael Cooney is making his Hollywood dreams come true. As head of Team Diversity Media (TDM), Cooney is on a path to change the perception of people with disabilities behind and in front of the camera. Founded in 2009, TDM is a first-of-its-kind production company owned and operated by disabled filmmakers. Michael, originally from Boston, came to Los Angeles in 2003 after graduating from the University of Massachusetts with an education degree and having worked for several years in radio as everything from a DJ to a music director, and in marketing for an independent record label.

“I came to Los Angeles to try and work for a larger record label. It was extremely competitive and I was both encouraged and discouraged. My qualifications on paper could get me an interview. Once I was in the room I spent most of the interview dispelling myths about my disability,”

Michael said.

“Interviewers wanted to know about what I couldn’t do instead of what I could.”

Michael applied to graduate school based on his skill as a writer and began working on a book. He ultimately graduated with a MFA in writing from Otis College but still could not find work. He eventually began teaching writing at Inclusion Films, a company headed by Joey Travolta that works to provide developmentally disabled adults with film production training. That experience led Michael to start TDM.

“WorkFirst is helping me build TDM structure with things such as proper insurance, a business plan and marketing.”“I have all the same dreams, hopes and aspirations that other people have. Given the opportunity people with disabilities can do anything.”

Through WorkFirst, a division of Easter Seals focused supporting individuals to find and keep meaningful employment or to build their own business, Michael found the help he needed to further his company. Michael did complete and publish that book he started long ago, a memoir called “Walking in My Sleep.”

---

SOURCE LINK ABLE CAFE