Empowering Students Through Lived Experience
In a world that strives for inclusivity and equality, understanding the diverse experiences of others is an essential part of education.
The Rick Hansen Foundation School Program (RHFSP) has embraced this need by bringing individuals with lived experiences of disabilities into classrooms across Canada. RHF Ambassador presentations offer students from Kindergarten through grade 12 a unique opportunity to hear directly from people with varying disabilities. Presentations promote empathy and understanding, and enhance the learning experience in a way that traditional teaching methods often cannot achieve.
A personal approach to disability awareness
The core strength of these presentations lies in the power of personal storytelling. Ambassadors, who come from diverse backgrounds and have various types of disabilities, share their stories with students. These speakers are not merely presenting information; they are sharing their life journeys, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs that come with living with a disability. This personal approach brings the realities of disability to life in a way that books and lectures cannot replicate. When students hear firsthand accounts of how someone has overcome barriers, whether in accessibility, education, or employment, it resonates on a deeper level.
For many students, learning about disabilities in a textbook can feel distant and impersonal. Ambassador presentations shift this dynamic by creating a face-to-face connection between students and the speaker. The result is an enriched learning environment where students can ask questions, engage in meaningful discussions, and better understand the human aspect of disability.
Building empathy and understanding in the classroom
Empathy is a skill that can be nurtured, and RHF Ambassador presentations excel at this. By hearing directly from people who have experienced the world in a different way, students begin to develop a more nuanced understanding of life from different perspectives. It encourages them to consider things they may not have previously thought about, such as how accessible their school is, what accommodations their peers might need, or even how their own actions can contribute to a more inclusive environment.
With 1 in 4 Canadians currently living with a disability, disability intersects with all other identities. The insights students gain from Ambassadors can extend to other areas of their lives, such as understanding the experiences of classmates from different cultural backgrounds or ethnicities. It helps to cultivate an overall culture of kindness and respect, empowering students to become advocates for accessibility and inclusivity in their communities.
The power of representation and role models
For students who live with disabilities, seeing someone who shares a similar experience overcome barriers can be incredibly powerful. RHF Ambassadors serve as role models, showing that having a disability does not define one’s potential or limit one’s achievements. This representation can inspire young people to set ambitious goals for themselves.
For students without disabilities, Ambassadors provide an opportunity to challenge and change misconceptions. Many people, especially young students, may have limited exposure to individuals with disabilities and might unintentionally hold biases or stereotypes. Presentations encourage students to question these preconceptions and recognize the abilities, strengths, and potential of people with disabilities.
Contributing to a more inclusive future
The RHF School Program doesn’t just impact students in the present—it helps to shape the future. By educating the next generation about the importance of inclusivity, accessibility, and disability rights, it plants the seeds for a more inclusive and accessible society. The students of today are the leaders and decision-makers of tomorrow; equipping them with knowledge and understanding today prepares them to advocate for policies, design accessible spaces, and support inclusive practices in the workplace and beyond. The lessons learned instill a lifelong commitment to inclusivity that goes beyond the school walls.
Creating lasting change
RHF Ambassador presentations are much more than an educational initiative; they are a catalyst for change. By bringing lived experiences into the classroom, they enrich the learning environment, build empathy, and promote a deeper understanding of accessibility and inclusion. Ambassadors offer presentations virtually across the country in English or French.
In addition to virtual talks, the RHF School Program provides educators with free online resources in French and English. The online resource library provides lesson plans, activities, e-books, videos and more.
Empowering the next generation creates a ripple effect that contributes to a future where accessibility and inclusivity are not just ideals, but realities embraced by all—paving the way for a more inclusive and accessible world.
If you know of schools or youth groups that would benefit from an RHF Ambassdador presentation or are interested in learning more about the RHF School Program visit RickHansen.com/Schools or email schools@rickhansen.com.
If you have a disability, personal experience in engaging youth and are interested in becoming an RHF Ambassador for the 2025/26 school year, applications are open at RickHansen.com/about-us/work-us until March 31, 2025.
