Accessibility Events

National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) 2026

Every year, beginning on the last Sunday in May, accessibility and inclusion are promoted, and the contributions of Canadians with disabilities are celebrated.

This year, in recognition of National AccessAbility Week, join us for a free virtual educational series coordinated by the City of Ottawa and George Brown Polytechnic, running from May 25 to June 12.

This six-part series will explore a range of topics designed to build awareness, knowledge, and practical skills related to accessibility. Open to everyone, these sessions are ideal for anyone interested in creating more inclusive and accessible environments—whether in the workplace, in service delivery, or in everyday interactions.

Each session will feature subject matter experts and provide actionable insights that participants can apply in their own roles and communities.

All sessions are free to attend and will be held online via Zoom. Interested attendees must register for each session they wish to attend using the link provided below.

Sessions

Accessibility Foundations with POUR: Making Digital Content Inclusive

Monday, May 25, 2026
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. 

Learn how small design choices can create big impact. This interactive session introduces the POUR principles and offers practical strategies to make digital content, events, and communications more inclusive and accessible.

Speakers: Jade Found (Cambrian College); Gian Michele Pileri (George Brown Polytechnic)

Zoom Registration

Facility Accessibility Design Standards

Wednesday, May 27, 2026
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. 

Facility Accessibility Design Standards Discover how accessibility standards can go beyond compliance to shape inclusive, welcoming environments. This session explores key design approaches that support diverse users across campus spaces. 

Speaker: Graeme Kondruss (George Brown Polytechnic)

Zoom Registration

Digital Accessibility and Usability: Ensuring Inclusive User Experiences

Wednesday, June 3, 2026
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. 

Explore how accessibility and usability come together to improve digital experiences for everyone. Learn to identify common barriers and apply simple, effective techniques to create more user-friendly content.

Speakers: Logan Trafford (City of Ottawa); Janette Campbell (City of Mississauga)

Zoom Registration

Friday, June 5, 2026
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Gain practical guidance on supporting service dog integration in educational settings. This session covers legal responsibilities, accommodation practices, and strategies for fostering an inclusive campus.

Speaker: Rochelle Barber (National Service Dogs)

Zoom Registration

The Air We Share: Why Indoor Air Quality and Scents Matter for Accessibility

Monday, June 8, 2026
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Understand how indoor air quality impacts accessibility and inclusion. This session highlights the role of scent sensitivity and offers approaches to creating healthier, fragrance-free environments. 

Speakers: Dr. John Molot (Environmental Health Association of Canada & Québec); Rohini Peris (Environmental Health Association of Canada & Québec)

Zoom Registration

Applying an Accessibility Lens to the Built Environment

Wednesday, June 10, 2026
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Learn how applying an accessibility lens can transform the way spaces are designed and experienced. Explore real-world examples and practical strategies for creating more inclusive built environments.

Speakers: Jaedon McColl; Anna Valliant; Alan Perks (CSCE Task Force on Accessibility)

Zoom Registration
Land Acknowledgement

Land Acknowledgement

George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.

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