Advocacy Award 

By Patchen Barss 

In a more inclusive world, authenticity might not require bravery. In the world we live in though, sharing one’s experiences of disability and ableism sometimes demands reserves of exceptional confidence and self-assurance. Five young recipients of Empowered Kids Ontario Scholarships stepped up this year, discussing their vulnerabilities and aspirations in a powerful podcast-style series about building inclusivity, overcoming barriers, and creating spaces for safe and meaningful engagement. Their openness offered validation and empowerment for many listeners to their conversations.

EKO Scholarships support students studying at colleges, universities, career training programs, and Indigenous Institutes, pursuing careers in sectors from the arts to education, business, law and law enforcement, emergency services, technology, politics, healthcare, and more. Many EKO Scholars are committed to opening doors for other young people with disabilities and developmental needs. The five EKO Scholars we’re honouring went far above and beyond on this front.

The initiative originated with Max Le Moine’s vision for a platform where disabled youth could safely share their thoughts and experiences with developmental health professionals. He and Daniel Lee, Tai Young, Wesley Magee-Saxton, and Thalia Avgousti recorded deeply honest conversations describing their journey through the world of accessibility, inclusion, collaboration, and consent in the developmental health sector. Each scholar’s story is different, highlighting the variety of their experiences.

In a world that often dismisses, ignores, and denies ableism, these five scholars demonstrate exceptional dedication and purpose, communicating with honesty and vulnerability, and vividly present the irrefutable reality of their stories.

They created this series exclusively for EKO members, to help inform organizations with direct influence and impact on the lives of disabled youth and their families. Their professionalism, care, and frankness encourage and support open conversations and understanding among young people with disabilities and developmental needs and their families. These five EKO Scholars not only embody the diversity of disabled voices, they also demonstrate how essential these voices are to the growth and success of society.

As part of her ongoing work in this space, Thalia invites you to see her presentation she shares with college students around the province.