The Ontario government is investing $400,000 to support the Rick Hansen Foundation in delivering a national Youth Leadership Summit in 2027 aimed at empowering young people to champion accessibility and inclusion in their communities.
The funding announcement followed Premier Doug Ford joining leaders from other provinces and territories to sign a historic Memorandum of Understanding committing to advancing accessibility and reducing physical barriers for Canadians with disabilities.
“For 40 years, Rick Hansen has been inspiring Canadians and people around the world to build a future without barriers,” said Premier Ford. “Our government is proud to support Rick’s mission with this investment to support the next generation of accessibility leaders.”
The summit will bring more than 40 young leaders aged 12 to 19 from across the country to Ontario to learn from accessibility advocates, collaborate with peers and explore approaches to removing barriers for people with disabilities. “Ontario is proud to support the next generation of accessibility leaders,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “Today’s investment will empower young people to become champions for accessibility, helping build a future where everyone can participate fully in community life. Through this initiative, youth will gain the leadership skills, knowledge and confidence to remove barriers and create lasting change across Ontario and Canada.”
Rick Hansen, founder of the Rick Hansen Foundation, said the summit coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Man In Motion World Tour. “This Youth Leadership Summit is an investment in the leaders who will shape a more accessible future,” Hansen said. “As we commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Man In Motion World Tour, I’m inspired by the opportunity to transform that spirit into many in motion. By bringing together young people with diverse experiences and perspectives, we can inspire innovation, foster understanding and empower the next generation to break down barriers and create communities where everyone can fully participate and contribute. When youth are engaged to lead, they have the power to carry this movement forward and create impactful change for generations to come.”
The two-day summit will be held in Ontario and will include workshops, leadership training and collaborative activities focused on accessibility, inclusion and community leadership.
