The Minister of Health and Social Services, Lesa Semmler, announced the three recipients of the 2024 Accessibility Impact Awards. This collaborative awards event provides a platform for the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT), the NWT Disabilities Council, and the NWT Human Rights Commission to acknowledge the exceptional people and businesses that are furthering accessibility and the inclusion of persons with disabilities within the territory. By promoting community accessibility and social inclusion, the winners of these awards enable people with disabilities to engage with their neighbours and community to achieve more fulfilling lives.
This year’s recipients are:
GNWT Accessibility and Inclusion Award:
Sharon Oldford, based in Yellowknife, has been an advocate for special education since obtaining her degree from Memorial University. In her role as a program support teacher and previously as a classroom teacher and administrator, she has consistently championed the inclusion of students with disabilities. Sharon’s commitment to these students is evident in her unwavering support over the course of their educational paths. Her tailored approach has been instrumental in fostering student success, promoting inclusion, and facilitating participation that addresses their social, educational, and developmental requirements.
The NWT Disabilities Council Judith A. Sharp Memorial Community Champion Award:
The Dudes Club and GirlSpace programs at YWCA NWT are designed to empower young individuals. The Dudes Club encourages boys to become resilient leaders, promotes self-discovery, and ensures inclusivity and accessibility. It assists boys in realizing their potential and accessing support services, thereby exerting a substantial positive impact on the community. Similarly, GirlSpace is a transformative program that helps young girls develop leadership abilities, boost self-esteem, collaborate, and actively participate in their communities, all within an inclusive environment. This program enriches the lives of its participants.
The Human Rights Commission Accessibility Award:
The Tłı̨chǫ Community Builders strive to boost the economic independence, prosperity, and stability of Tłı̨chǫ citizens and First Nations in the Northwest Territories through sustainable economic initiatives. Pursuing this objective, they constructed the new Tłı̨chǫ Government Building in Wekweètì, designed to overcome the mobility challenges faced by the community. The structure features numerous accessibility enhancements, such as a wheelchair ramp, non-slip paint, grab bars, expanded seating, barrier-free restrooms, designated parking for disabled persons, and accessible emergency equipment. The Tłı̨chǫ Community Builders are leading by example in the creation of inclusive and accessible public facilities.
The awards ceremony this year took place on May 31, 2024, during National AccessAbility Week. It served as a platform to honor the achievements of exceptional individuals and businesses dedicated to promoting accessibility and inclusion within the territory.
