Rising Star Award

By Patchen Barss

Many award recipients this year are notable for their work ensuring new generations of advocates carry on the work to make Ontario more inclusive and accessible. Talina Papazian is part of that new generation. The 19-year-old author, volunteer, and educator began her journey with inspiration from with her younger brother who has a hidden disability.

At age 17, she became an author of the illustrated children’s book You Taught Me, which features a deeply inclusive cast of characters and narrative. She uses the book to raise funds and awareness on behalf of children with disabilities and developmental differences.

She works to diminish social stigma and isolation for people like her brother. Papazian donates all proceeds from the book to another of this year’s EKO award recipients, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. Through partnerships and advocacy with public libraries, children’s centres, hospitals, and other organizations, she leads workshops and activities for young readers, working to reshape how people think about disability and inclusion.

Papazian’s drive is well established already, and she continues to learn and expand her ideas about inclusivity. For instance, she is currently working to create audiobook, ASL, and Braille versions of You Taught Me, making sure that her story and its lessons are available to all readers.

She continues to grow and learn as a leader and public speaker. Papazian is currently working on a follow-up book, and serves on the Youth Leadership Committee of the Rick Hansen Foundation.