Creative Expression
Zone Leaders
Eileen Kennedy
Library Digital Experience Developer
University of Galway
Xtreama Ewean
Engineering Student
University of Galway
Eileen Kennedy is Library Digital Experience Developer in the University of Galway Library. As part of her role she manages the MakerSpace, an area where members of the University community can work together to generate ideas and generally make stuff. The MakerSpace's focus is on creative and inclusive designing and making.
Xtremea Ewean, diagnosed with polio at age one, is a fourth year Electronic & Computer Engineering student at the University of Galway whose third year project was Neuro Hand, a user centric interface that converts EMG muscle signals and hand gestures into computer commands, incorporates AI voice recognition for controls, and features a single multifunction button. Designed with an accessibility first mindset to empower users with diverse motor skills, it bridges the gap for those who struggle with traditional keyboards or mice, helping them regain independence in the digital world.
Karl O'Keefe
Assistive Technology & eLearning
Specialist
Enable Ireland
Cian Joyce
Occupational Therapist
Enable Ireland Regional Assistive Technology Team, Galway
Make Your Own Tools:
Intro to 3D Design
Thursday 4 June
18:00 - 20:00
Friday 5 June
18:00 - 20:00
Hardiman Research Building, Room G011
University of Galway
Learn the basics of TinkerCAD, a free web-based design programme which will allow you to create your own 3D tools and crafts suitable for 3D printing. Please bring your own device with internet access. Laptops, iPads, and tablets are all okay. Workshops limited to 5 participants.
MakerSpace Drop-In
Thursday 4 June
14:00 - 18:00
Friday 5 June
14:00 - 18:00
Hardiman Research Building Foyer
University of Galway
No Registration Required
Drop-in to see our 3D printers in action. Speak with our Library MakerSpace student volunteers to learn how 3D printing works and how you can make it work for you. Feel free to bring a 3D file of your own and we can assist with printing (first come served).
Accessible Gaming Arcade
Friday 5 June
All Day
Saturday 6 June
09:00 - 13:00
Human Biology Classroom
Human Biology Building
University of Galway
Welcome to the Accessible Gaming Arcade — a hands‑on space where players of all ages and abilities can dive into the worlds they love. From blockbuster titles to creative sandbox games, from fast-paced action to calm, colourful adventures, this is where mainstream gaming meets accessible design.
Because great games aren’t just for some of us — they’re for all of us.
Play Your Way
Discover a full setup of accessible hardware designed to make play feel natural, comfortable and genuinely fun. Try switches, joysticks, mounts, alternative controllers, and even eye‑gaze systems — all connected to the games everyone’s talking about.
Whether you’re taking your first step into gaming or levelling up your favourite titles with a different control style, the Arcade is built to remove barriers and open possibilities.
For Players, Families & Professionals
The Arcade is created first and foremost for people with lived experience of disability and their families, offering a safe, welcoming space to try new ways of playing.
It’s also an exciting showcase for conference delegates, clinicians, educators, technologists, and anyone curious about the future of accessible play.
It is an excellent opportunity to deepen understanding, explore innovative technologies, and celebrate the importance of inclusive play.
