Alberta DEAM Kick Off!

Start DEAM off right with a virtual event for all Albertans! Join Alberta Employment First Network, Gateway Association & GEDI Hub with an online kick-off. This Alberta wide kick-off is a chance for employers, service providers and community to celebrate together across the province. If your region does not have an in person kick-off, or if attending in person is not accessible to you , the first ever virtual kick-off is a great option!

During the kick off, there will be a speaker from the disability community, an employer, a proclamation from a mayor and an opportunity to review all other DEAM events happening across Alberta during the month of October. See you online!

Speakers

Michael Wing

Michael Wing is a person living with a disability and has been a disability rights advocate for nearly a decade. He is passionate about disability justice and runs a YouTube and TikTok channel called The Anti Ableist. He is also a member of the Self Advocacy Federation, Disability Action Hall, the Staying Connected Network and Albertans Advocating for Change Together.

Olivia Adams- FOUR20 Store Manager

Olivia Adams is a seasoned retail professional with over a decade of experience, currently serving as a store manager at FOUR20. In 2022, she was honored with the Inclusive Employer award by the Gateway Association for her commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace. She has also earned the Friendliest Budtender award and was featured in a centrefold interview for Cannabis Retailer magazine.With a personal connection to diversity and inclusion, Olivia’s passion stems from her own experiences with neurodiversity, which has driven her to advocate for individuals often overlooked due to disabilities or backgrounds. Having lived in seven countries, she embraces cultural diversity and is dedicated to creating environments where everyone is valued. Olivia has proudly collaborated with the Gateway Association for the past three years, working to promote equitable employment opportunities.

What is DEAM?

October 1st marks the start of Disability Employment Awareness (DEAM) month across Canada and in Alberta. DEAM celebrates, educates, raises awareness and promotes employment inclusion within the job market for people with disabilities. Persons with disabilities face barriers to employment and each year DEAM provides an opportunity for employers, people with disabilities, service providers and Canadians to come together to act in removing barriers and creating a more inclusive economy.

Throughout the month of October, DEAM events, panel discussion, and activities occur across Canada and Alberta. The DEAM Alberta provincial committee is proud to offer a variety of events, activities, and panel discussions throughout the month of October across the province – including in person and in a virtual setting.