Alicia Grace Chenier is the Co-Chair of the Fighting Blindness Canada Young Leaders Program. Alicia is a blind actor, filmmaker, and disability advocate from Sudbury, Ontario, who works at the intersections of creative storytelling and community organizing. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Disability Studies, where her work focuses on disability justice, representation in media, and building more accessible communities.
Alicia has been actively involved in accessibility initiatives at the municipal and national levels, including serving on Sudbury’s Accessibility Committee and advocating for inclusive design in public spaces. Through her advocacy, she strives to create platforms where blind and low-vision youth can lead, shape policy, and feel seen. At her core, Alicia believes storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have to spark change, whether it is on screen, on stage, or in the community.

Dr. Ali Usman is an award-winning scientist with a PhD in Experimental Nuclear Physics. His research studies the universe at its most fundamental scale by investigating the internal structure of protons through large-scale, state-of-the-art experiments. He has conducted pioneering work at some of the world’s foremost research facilities, including the Large Hadron Collider at CERN in Switzerland, Jefferson Lab, and Brookhaven National Lab in the United States. Currently serving as a Research Facilitator for Natural Sciences and Engineering at the University of Regina, Ali provides insightful guidance and strategic support to researchers seeking funding from public and private sources. Beyond the laboratory, he is a passionate advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, particularly for underrepresented and marginalized students in higher education. He has organized impactful workshops and panel discussions addressing systemic challenges, and his successful advocacy has led to improved services for students with disabilities at his university. Deeply engaged with the broader community, Ali is an active member of CNIB Saskatchewan’s advocacy committee and serves as co-chair of Fighting Blindness Canada’s national Young Leaders program, where he works to empower the next generation of changemakers.

Ben Akuoko is a registered social worker and passionate advocate living with Retinitis Pigmentosa. He holds a Social Service Worker diploma from Sheridan College, a Bachelor of Social Work from Laurentian University, and a Master of Social Work from the University of Waterloo. At CNIB, Ben leads advocacy and accessibility programs across Ontario, working to amplify the voices of people with disabilities. He is dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, with a strong focus on intersectionality across race, gender, sexuality, and disability. Outside of work, Ben enjoys making hip hop and R&B music, podcasting, dancing, and staying active through running and weight training.

Elliot Gibson is a blind actor and musician from Ottawa with a deep love for performance and storytelling. Trained as a classical vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, they began performing at open mics and local events before discovering theatre at Canterbury Arts High School. Elliot is currently studying Musical Theatre at Sheridan College and recently made their professional debut in Rainbow On Mars by Devon Healey, a co-production between Outside The March, Peripheral Theatre, and The National Ballet. They are passionate about exploring creativity and identity through performance, with aspirations to continue acting, composing, and writing for the stage.

Eitel Houedakor is an Assistive Technology Specialist and Paralympic Judo athlete dedicated to advancing digital accessibility and inclusion. He helps individuals who are blind or partially sighted gain digital independence and supports organizations in creating accessible, user-centered technology. In 2024, he represented Canada as a Youth Delegate at the United Nations COSP-17, advocating for inclusive design and accessibility in global policy. Guided by the belief that “Accessibility is the only way forward,” Eitel combines technical expertise with a passion for equity and empowerment.

Dr. Esther Ignagni, PhD is an academic leader and researcher in the field of disability studies. Since joining Toronto Metropolitan University in 2006, she has served as Director of the School of Disability Studies and, most recently, Interim Director of the School of Social Work. Her scholarship explores how social institutions and policies shape the private and public lives of disabled people, with a strong commitment to co-production of knowledge and community engagement. She has led curriculum innovation in online learning, anti-racist and decolonial education, and universal design. Dr. Ignagni holds a PhD from the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health.

Benjamin Kent (he/they) is a Labour Relations Advisor in the federal public service and a passionate advocate for accessibility and inclusion. Living with Retinitis Pigmentosa, Ben brings both professional insight and lived experience to their work. Outside of their government role, they serve as Chair of the Board of Directors for LGBT YouthLine, a peer support organization for queer and trans youth across Ontario. Previously, Ben worked in animal care as a dog groomer and veterinary assistant before transitioning into human resources. They live in Toronto with their husband and cat and enjoy exploring local coffee and book shops.

Adam Macciocchi-Lancia is a Canadian visual artist living with vision loss whose creative practice began in childhood and evolved into an international career. A graduate of OCAD University’s Fine Arts program, Adam has exhibited his work internationally, including multiple times during Art Basel Week in Miami. His paintings are held in private collections and have also supported charitable causes such as SickKids Hospital, the Jean Tweed Centre, and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada. Through his art, Adam explores texture, emotion, and the power of perspective, proving that vision is more than sight.

Patrick Losier is a lawyer based in Atlantic Canada, where he practices in the areas of real estate, business law, and estate planning. Beyond his legal work, Patrick is a dedicated community volunteer, serving with the Rotary Club, public library board, local hospice, and several other organizations. His career reflects a deep commitment to community service, professional integrity, and mentorship. Patrick brings a wealth of practical knowledge and civic engagement to his work, helping individuals and families plan for the future while supporting inclusive community development.

Billy Liu is a registered massage therapist and vision rehabilitation assistant with Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada. Combining expertise in wellness and accessibility, Billy supports clients in achieving physical and functional independence. He describes himself as patient, persistent, and approachable—qualities that shine in both his professional practice and daily life. Outside of work, Billy enjoys running, hiking, skiing, and reading novels in braille. His current goal is to expand his culinary skills and learn to cook more complex meals.

Stuart Matan-Lithwick, PhD is a neuroinformatics research scientist, high school biology teacher, and dedicated mentor. Recognized by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, he integrates science, education, and lived experience into his work. Stuart lives with Retinitis Pigmentosa and views his vision loss as a source of strength and perspective in both research and teaching. He is passionate about engaging people with lived experience in science and empowering youth to see their unique abilities as assets. Outside of work, Stuart enjoys singing pop tunes with his A Cappella choir and spending time with his daughter, Grace.

Jack McCormick is a Senior Human Resources Manager at Microsoft, where he drives initiatives that strengthen organizational culture, leadership development, and team performance. Recognized as HRD Canada’s Rising Star of the Year in 2022, Jack is known for his innovative approach to people strategy. He also serves on the People & Culture Board Committee at Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada and the Advisory Board for CNIB Lake Joe, supporting leadership and inclusion in the vision loss community. Jack’s work reflects his passion for aligning business success with empathy, accessibility, and growth.

George Quarcoo, also known as DJ GQSoundz, is a Ghanaian-born Canadian artist whose creative journey spans music, dance, and sport. Living with vision loss since age nine, he has built a vibrant career as a DJ and Brazilian Zouk dancer, performing with energy and heart at events across Canada. A former international Para athlete, George represented both Ghana and Canada in sprinting competitions, setting a Canadian record in the T11 100m in 2023. Combining creativity, technology, and lived experience, George inspires others to find rhythm and connection in every aspect of life.

Stephen Ricci has dedicated his career to advancing accessibility and inclusion, most recently as National Portfolio Manager for CNIB SmartLife. Born with ocular albinism and legally blind since birth, Stephen is deeply engaged in the blind and partially sighted community, volunteering and advocating for universal design across Canada. He is driven by a belief that accessibility benefits everyone and that lived experience is a powerful tool for change. Outside of work, Stephen enjoys reading, comedy, cheering on the Maple Leafs and Blue Jays, and spending time with his family, including his granddaughter.

Shayla Shenanigans is a Halifax-based drag performer, comedian, and writer who has been entertaining audiences for over 24 years. With more than 1,400 shows to her name, Shayla has built a career filled with laughter, creativity, and community impact. Visually impaired herself, she uses her art to challenge perceptions and inspire others to embrace joy and resilience. Shayla has mentored dozens of emerging drag artists, fostering kindness, confidence, and connection within the community. Her motto: anything worth doing is worth doing with heart and a little bit of wackadoodle spirit.

Wayne St. Denis worked in Information Technology for over two decades with CIBC Bank and HP Canada, specializing in scheduling applications across mainframe, Unix, and AS/400 platforms. Today, he manages and organizes the Toronto Ice Owls Blind Hockey team, providing opportunities for men and women who are blind or partially sighted to play hockey each week. The team not only promotes physical activity but also builds a strong sense of community and peer support. Wayne is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where people can connect, share experiences, and enjoy the game they love.