Michael, a public speaker, activist, and author who has wrote and self-published two books: Can’t Read, Can’t Write, Here’s My Book and I Belong: Can I Play?

At a young age, Michael was diagnosed with autism and an intellectual disability. Never one to shy away from obstacles, Michael has made his authorial debut, sharing experiences from his life to help audiences understand the power of belonging. His story demonstrates the empowerment that comes from being comfortable in your own skin, knowing your strengths, valuing relationships, and giving back to your community. Michael is the board President of Community Living Ontario, where he advocates for others with disabilities. He works at Sobeys grocery store and competes as a Special Olympic athlete. Michael hopes to write many more books and continue to make an impact in the world through his experiences. 

Avery Nickerson is the lead Self-Advocate for Community
Living Association South Simcoe. She helps new hires
within CLASS learn about potential issues within the
workplace and gives a voice to the people who receive
support from CLASS to share their experiences, shedding
light on some of the positive and challenging things staff
are doing to help new hires better understand what
supports are needed.

Avery Nickerson has been a service dog handler for the past three years,
working with her service dog, Lumalee, to help her navigate the community
and keep her calm in stressful or unfamiliar situations. Luma pushes her
beyond what she thought she was capable of and helps her achieve new
skills by giving her the support and the confidence to try new things.

Yvonne Spicer is Co-Founder of Lifetime Abilities and a leader in the developmental services sector, bringing over 15 years of lived experience and system-level insight to drive meaningful, lasting change. Based in London, Ontario, her work is rooted in respect, equity, and possibility—designing spaces where people are supported to move forward on their own terms. Her journey is deeply personal, shaped by years of advocacy, education, and lived experience navigating systems, which informs her leadership in program development, community engagement, and accessibility-focused initiatives. 

Through Lifetime Abilities, Yvonne delivers inclusive services, presentations, and collaborations that remove barriers and promote choice, voice, and self-direction. A sought-after speaker and advocate, she contributes to research, policy discussions, and community initiatives focused on equity, disability rights, and inclusive practices. Recognized for her impact, she is an Autism Canada ambassador, an award recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Award, and author of My Life, My Choice, My Future, continuing to inspire change through leadership, storytelling, and community collaboration.

Theresa Somerton is Co-Founder of Lifetime Abilities, bringing over 20 years of experience and a strong, honest voice to the developmental services sector. Her work is grounded in lived experience, advocacy, and a deep understanding of the everyday challenges people face navigating systems. Known for her clarity and authenticity, Theresa has spent years speaking up for herself and others, helping shape more inclusive, person-centered approaches across communities and organizations.

Through Lifetime Abilities and her work with research and advocacy groups, Theresa contributes to initiatives that connect lived experience to policy, employment, and support systems. A respected speaker and former Board Director with Community Living Ontario, she is recognized for creating space where people feel heard and empowered. Her leadership has been honoured with the James Montgomery Honour Award, reflecting her lasting impact on advancing inclusion, accessibility, and meaningful change.

Jamie Hall has been part of the Empower Simcoe team for the past 11 years, where he serves as Corporate Communications Manager, helping share stories and advocacy in support of people of all abilities. Before that, he spent two decades waking up listeners as the morning show host on B101 and CHAY becoming a familiar and friendly voice to many along the way.

Liam was born in Scarborough, Ontario and became a crown ward. At 2 ½ years of age, Liam was placed in foster care in Barrie. Over the next 18 months, he moved between foster families until he met his permanent (foster) mom. Liam says that he and his mom went through many ups and downs as they navigated Liam’s journey with Autism.

When his mom retired, they moved to St. Thomas—Liam’s first major self-advocacy challenge, as he and his mom fought to stay together when CAS objected to the out-of-county move.

Liam’s Mom believed that Liam would have to spend the rest of his life in a group home and began researching their options. Finding suitable supported living in St. Thomas proved difficult and she reached out to

E3. E3 staff met with Liam, and it felt like such a great fit that Liam moved from St. Thomas to Wasaga Beach at age 17 to live in a group home with other young men. Liam focused on setting his personal goals, his creative arts and self-regulation. 3 years later,

Liam was ready to move out on his own and find “home” in independence. He is still good friends with one of his former housemates and continues to access E3 support with Passport funding, Supported Independent Living, and Employment.

Liam is very creative and a bit of an entrepreneur. He enjoys exploring digital and hands on artistic ways of earning income. Liam started making clay pendants and in 2024 began his 3D printing business -- Sticky Goose Creations.

Following his participation in E3’s co-design service planning, Liam was invited to join the Board of Directors.

Liam has been an active E3 Board Member and Self-Advocate since 2025. He is especially enthusiastic about engaging in community and learning from other organizations.

Liam has spoken at Community Living Ontario and OASIS conferences.

In addition to his leadership in the disability sector, Liam loves technology, graphic design, walking and spending time with his family, friends and fiancée.

Liam is very proud of his accomplishments, and his mom is too! He is confident, self-aware and literally left the nest, spread his wings and is soaring.

Sharing his story has become a lifelong mission for survivor and advocate Harold Dougall. In his newly released book, Behind Closed Doors, Harold chronicles his life and memories of living at the Huronia Regional Centre (HRC), where he was placed at just 11 years old.

Harold has shared his experiences widely, including through Speakers Bureau presentations at York University, speaking engagements in Winnipeg, appearances on local television, and in the documentary Unloved: Huronia’s Forgotten Children.

Throughout his journey, Harold has continued to grow, learn, and challenge himself. He plans to run again for Orillia City Council in the next municipal election. He is also an advocate against drunk driving, a Special Olympian, and an active Toastmaster.

With over three years of experience as a Direct Support Professional, Sarah has a passion for empowering individuals to build independence and confidence in their daily lives. She has supported people in developing life skills, navigating their communities, and achieving personal goals. As the Canva Lead for her team, she has designed creative and accessible materials that enhance learning, engagement, and marketing materials. She has also facilitated the “How to Be a Good Roommate” course, guiding individuals in developing positive communication, respect, and shared living spaces.

Deborah is a dedicated Employment Coordinator who began her career as a Direct Support Professional, building a strong, person-centered approach to her work. She leads the Humber Baking Program, where she designed and developed a curriculum that supports participants in gaining hands-on skills and confidence. Deborah has facilitated a range of programs, including “Just Enough Supports,” Humber lectures, and the “How to Be a Good Roommate” course, all focused on empowering individuals with the tools they need for independence and success.

Elisa Fronczak is a Community Inclusion and Development Lead at the Meta Centre.
She has 20 years of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities
and dual diagnosis. She designs and facilitates advocacy, educational, and therapeutic
programs that respond to diverse needs and promote empowerment for people with
disabilities.

Her workshops are interactive with accessibility and inclusion in mind and equip
individuals with the knowledge and skills to recognize online risks, protect themselves,
and respond safely to harmful digital experiences.

Jamie has lived at Camphill since 2005. He enjoys working on the land—especially with the goats—playing outdoor sports, and spending time in the Woodshop. Jamie has been part of the Self Advocates Group at Camphill for many years. He likes sharing ideas with others and helping lead the group. Jamie has experience getting and keeping a job. He has also worked on several research projects focused on employment.

Sonia is a professor at Lakehead University. She teaches about inclusive education, mental health, and how people learn. Sonia studies how to support people with developmental disabilities, including in school, work, and daily life. She has shared her research in many places around the world. Sonia has worked on projects about employment and starting businesses. She enjoys working with partners and making sure people’s voices and experiences are heard and respected.

Kathrine is the Director of Development at Camphill. She has worked at Camphill for over 18 years and cares deeply about the community. Kathrine helps create programs, find funding, and build partnerships. She has supported projects about employment, volunteering, and social enterprise. Kathrine enjoys working with others, listening to people’s ideas, and helping projects grow. She believes everyone should have the chance to find meaningful work and be part of their community.