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Born with arthrogryposis, a rare condition that affects the movement of joints and muscles, Nathaniel Bailey has never allowed his diagnosis to define him. At just 18 years old, he stands as Jamaica's first para-surfer to compete internationally, a cybersecurity student, and a recipient of the Prime Minister's National Youth Award for Excellence in Sports.

"I always say I don't see myself with a disability because I live a regular life," Bailey told JIS.

Bailey was raised by his mother, Yolanda Scarlett - a school principal and his unwavering source of support - who made a conscious decision to never treat him as fragile.

"Even though he has a physical challenge, I treated him as a normal child," she said.

"Whatever he showed interest in, I let him do it."

Bailey starting swimming by the time he turned two, and by age four, he had taken up the keyboard to strengthen his fingers. His early development was bolstered by the Early Stimulation Programme (ESP), a government-run initiative for children with developmental delays.

"While I was there it motivated me to do better... do my utmost best because the staff there really helped to shape who I am," Bailey reflected.

"It really just helped me develop my motor skills and learn what methods worked best for me."

Bailey, who later attended Jamaica College, attributes much of his success to a disciplined mindset, thanks to his mother's influence.

"Failing was not an option. She would always say, 'What your foot can't do, your brain has to do'. That's what I live by," he said.

While academics kept him focused, it was the ocean that gave him freedom. His entry into the world of para-surfing happened almost by chance. One Friday night in October 2021, a representative from the International Surfing Association reached out and encouraged him to try it. The next morning, Bailey hit the waves.

"I didn't even know there were waves in Jamaica to surf... and I didn't know that people with special disability could surf," he said.

Although his movement is restricted, Bailey quickly adapted to the sport.

"I just lay down on the board, and anywhere I look, that's where my body turns... . The paddling is different because of my hands... otherwise, I think it is okay... . I made it work," he explained.

Surfing soon took him beyond Jamaica's shores. Competing in California marked his first visit to the state--and fulfilling a lifelong dream.

"It was always my dream to fly my mom to the US... to do that at 16 was a big thing for me," Bailey shared.

Outside the water, Bailey is charting another impressive course in technology. He is currently enrolled at the University of Technology (UTech), Jamaica, where he's pursuing a degree in cybersecurity.

"I like pulling things apart to see how they work... . If you know how something fully operates, you can protect it," he says.

On social media, he's known as 'Kripx', a name that goes beyond just an online identity.

"Kripx isn't just an online persona; it has a whole deeper meaning; it's how I live day to day," he notes.

His social media platforms show a carefree, empowered version of disability.

"I don't really post motivational stuff... . I just post living my life... interacting with everyone... . I've seen more persons with disabilities come outside and embrace who they are since I have started to be myself on social media," he says.

Bailey sees a growing sense of empowerment among others in the disabled community.

"I don't know if they look to me as a beacon of hope, but I've definitely seen more young people like me step out and embrace themselves. That means the world to me," he says.

While he acknowledges that Jamaica still has progress to make in terms of infrastructure and accessibility, he's encouraged by efforts toward inclusion. For him, it starts with awareness.

"People need to learn from young that people can be different. That should be part of what we teach," he says.

To others living with disabilities, his message is full of determination and belief:

"The only person stopping you is yourself. Your dreams are as far or as near as you make them. If it feels close, grab it. If it feels far, work until you reach it," he emphasises.