Direct Access founder appointed MBE in the UK

Profoundly deaf Steven Mifsud, founder of Clearwater-based disability consultancy firm Direct Access has been awarded an MBE for services to International Trade in the United Kingdom Queen’s 2021 Birthday Honours list.

In Florida, the Direct Access team delivers accessibility audits of premises for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) working with both public and private sector organizations. Over in the UK, Direct Access offers the very same services under the Equality Act 2010.

Steven has led Direct Access to international export success sharing innovation and expertise in creating accessible environments all around the world. Some recent highlights include:

• Led the implementation of Universal Design and accessibility standards for the World Exposition Expo 2020 Dubai which followed the ADA design standard;
• Launched an evacuation chair range designed by persons with disabilities with state-wide contracts in the United States and the Middle East that creates jobs for persons with disabilities in installation and servicing;
• Delivered presentations and training on best practices in accessibility across different industry sectors in Poland, Spain, Canada, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.