MentorAbility Canada

Our challenge for the future is how to make relationships and build organizations based on the realization that there is no one whose contribution we do not need.

- Jack Pearpoint

The Evolution of Inclusion

Discussions on Creating Inclusive Workforces

Join MentorAbility Canada as we embark on a series of conversations about inclusion.

With over 6.2 million Canadian citizens experiencing a disability, we collectively benefit from engaging the strengths and talents of this largely untapped labour pool. Beyond this, we have the opportunity to create responsive tools and strategies to support employers in mobilizing this resource. Join Canada’s thought leaders as we explore inclusive policies and practices, workplace culture, the power of authentic work-based relationships and the real work involved in changing our world.

The Speaker Line-Up

Maayan Ziv

Mayaan Ziv, founder and CEO of AccessNow, has a mission to share accessibility information around the world. Recipient of the Public Policy Forum Award and the 2020 Governor General's innovation award - don't miss this dynamic entrepreneur and activist.

Suanne Miedema

Suanne Miedema is President of Miedema's Board Consulting Inc. She previously managed a multi-million dollar, multi-site retail organization bringing a wealth of experience around inclusive practices to her consultancy role. Suanne holds an MBA and serves as a volunteer Director on four non-profit boards.

John Lord

John Lord is a researcher, facilitator, and author of Pathways to Inclusion and Facilitating an Everyday Life. He was the founder and director of the Centre for Community Based Research and the Facilitation Leadership Group. John received the order of Canada for his work on inclusion.

Al Etmanski

Al Etmanski is a disability advocate who has helped to shape the Canadian landscape through his significant contribution to the creation of the RDSP, his steadfast advocacy around closing institutions in BC and his thought-provoking writing including Impact and The Power of Disability.

Mark Wafer

Mark Wafer is a disability rights activist. During his 25 years as the owner of six Tim Hortons locations he employed over 200 workers with disabilities including in senior management. He is an internationally recognized expert on the economics of inclusion, an advisor to governments around the world and is responsible for Canada's national disability employment strategy.