User:Bfernanddes

About Me
Greetings! I am Barbara Fernandes, a Brazilian-American speech-language pathologist, entrepreneur, and dedicated Wikipedia editor. With a passion for improving lives through effective communication, I've dedicated my career to innovative solutions and inclusive practices in the field of speech-language pathology.

Expertise
My expertise spans various facets of speech-language pathology and communication disorders:

- **Innovative Technologies:** As the driving force behind over sixty mobile applications, I've harnessed technology to support individuals with communication challenges. These applications address language development, articulation, and more, enhancing communication outcomes.

- **Inclusive Symbol Libraries:** I am the brain behind Smarty Symbols, a groundbreaking symbol library. This library is a testament to my commitment to fostering inclusivity by providing visual supports that transcend language barriers.

- **Playground Communication Boards:** Through Smarty Symbols, I've championed the cause of inclusivity in public spaces. Custom playground communication boards empower those with communication difficulties, allowing them to engage meaningfully.

- **Resilience Advocacy:** My personal journey from a Brazilian immigrant with limited English skills to a successful entrepreneur has fueled my passion for resilience advocacy. "Sis, You Got This!" is my empowering guide for fellow minority speech-language pathologists facing challenges.

- **Leadership and Recognition:** I've shared my insights as a speaker at state and national conventions, including ASHA. Recognition as an EdTech Leadership Finalist and Women in Tech Awards Finalist underscores my impact in the industry.

Contributions
My contributions to Wikipedia reflect my dedication to disseminating accurate information about speech-language pathology, communication disorders, and the power of inclusivity. I believe that shared knowledge empowers individuals and strengthens our global community.

Contact Me
Feel free to connect with me on my talk page for discussions, collaborations, or questions related to speech-language pathology, Wikipedia editing, and beyond.

Publications & Grants
- "Sis, You Got This!: From Surviving to Thriving as a Minority Speech-Language Pathologist". Smarty Ears, 2022. - "iTherapy: The revolution of Mobile devices within the field of Speech Therapy". Perspective on School-Based Issues, 2011. - "The new era of Articulation Therapy: Using convenient technology to facilitate learning and engagement". Communiqué Newsletter, Canada, 2011. - "Apps to revolutionize your therapy". Advance Magazine, 2010. - "Alternative Service Delivery Models for Bilingual (Spanish) Students Identified with Speech Impairments in the Area of Articulation and/or Language in School Settings". Communicologist, 2010. - "Traveling the world of speech pathology". NSSHLA Now Winter, 2008. - "Cultural Competence". ADVANCE Magazine for SLPs, 2009.