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From Conversation to Action: The 6th Annual Symposium on Inclusive Education and Employment

In Celebration of the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities -

When:  Monday & Tuesday December 2 & 3, 2013
Where:  Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel, Halifax, Nova Scotia

The Ability Starts Here Symposium on Inclusive Education and Employment is an opportunity to learn about barriers to education and employment experienced by persons with disabilities through meaningful discussion and dialogue with employers, educators, service providers, government and the community of students and employees with disabilities. Guest speakers and workshop facilitators explore the challenges faced by employers, educators and people with disabilities, and strategies to overcome them.

This year’s theme, From Conversation to Action, focuses on the issues and solutions emerging from discussions throughout the symposium and the meaningful actions we can all take to further our shared goal of greater inclusion in employment and school environments.

Attendees enjoy interactive workshops, panel discussions, an award gala, an entrepreneur fair, and many networking opportunities with the more than 300 representatives from business, labour, government, service providers and the larger community of persons with disabilities.

At our Awards Dinner on Monday evening, Mark Wafer will share his experience as owner of seven Tim Hortons locations in Ontario and how he came to employ more than 85 people with disabilities. Roger Jones, “The Ability Guy”, recognized nationally and internationally as an expert on disability and diversity issues, will be our Tuesday morning keynote speaker. Both bring an exciting dynamic to our symposium, sharing their knowledge and life journeys as progressive employers, entrepreneurs and persons with disabilities themselves.

Our hope is that a variety of actions will emanate from this year’s workshops and keynotes in the areas of inclusiveness and diversity in both education practices and the labour market participation of persons with disabilities. We are looking forward to your participation and to your continued efforts in working together to create a culture of inclusion and diversity.

In its 6th year, the symposium is sponsored through a partnership between the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission, the Disabled Persons Commission, and the Collaborative Partnership Network for Persons with Disabilities. The Halifax Regional Municipality and the National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS) contribute as Associate Partners.

Visit www.abilitystartshere.ca to learn more or register today.
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