When we think of a good life, most of us want a reason to get up in the morning, to have some control over our day, and to do something we feel we can grow our skills in—all with other people who we care about and who care about us.
Join us for this foundational webcast to hear directly from people living full lives as valued members of their communities. Whether that be in their workplace, school, or creative interests, our guests and their families are defining what a good life means for them and finding places where their contributions matter.
In this webcast, we’ll explore the principles that guide a good life, focusing on interests, talents, and passions. You will leave with actionable ideas and a greater sense of what is possible in your community.
What's in it for you?
- Learn from the personal journeys of people with disabilities who are thriving in their communities, pursuing education, creative expression, and employment.
- Gain a parent's perspective on staying positive, trusting the possibilities, and advocating for your child from a young age.
- Begin exploring how our roles and responsibilities are pathways to connection and relationship-building.
- Discover practical everyday steps people with disabilities and families can take to build roots in your community.
Brenda Agnew
Brenda is a dedicated family and parent partner in the disability research and advocacy communities, driven by her personal journey as the proud mother of two sons, Chase and Maclain. Her younger son, Maclain, is a former 29-week Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome survivor who lives with quadriplegic dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy and profound hearing loss due to Kernicterus. Since Maclain’s diagnosis, Brenda has been a tireless champion for systemic change, working to improve policies, programs, and supports for children with neurodiverse needs and their families. Her extensive contributions include serving with leading organizations such as CP-Net, CHILD-BRIGHT, and as a Director for Easter Seals Ontario, alongside her leadership as a school board trustee for the Halton Catholic District School Board, where she chairs key committees on special education, mental health, and human rights.
Brianne Taggart
Brianne is a self-advocate, public speaker, artist, bird photographer and dedicated committee member from Kingsville, Ontario. She is passionate about inclusion, leadership, and empowering others to embrace their abilities and use their voices. Through her advocacy work, public speaking, and participation on many committees, Brianne helps promote positive change and encourages others to reach their full potential. Her artwork and photography celebrate the beauty of nature and wildlife, with a special love for birds, especially owls. Brianne is committed to building stronger, more inclusive communities and inspiring others to believe in themselves and their abilities.
Nawin Mutti
Nawin is a dedicated board member of the non-profit organization Extend-a-Family, an organization he has been a part of for most of his life. He is a passionate advocate for inclusion, committed to fostering better, more accessible communities for everyone. Since high school, he has done workshops and training on inclusion, and since 2015 he has shared his perspective through speeches on the strengths of differently-abled people. In addition to his advocacy, Nawin attended Humber College for two years, and has over 11 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He has served on the Extend-a-Family board since 2018.
Kira Orendorff
Kira is the Family Facilitator at Partners for Planning and Project Manager for Microboards Ontario. Her journey into independent facilitation began while supporting a family member with a developmental disability. Inspired by the positive impact of personalized support, she helps families build lives rooted in community, choice, and belonging. With a Master’s in Applied Positive Psychology and over 15 years of experience in relationship-building, strategic planning, and project management, Kira combines practical expertise with a strengths-based, heart-centred approach. She has a facilitation practice in Toronto, partnering with families to create clear, sustainable plans tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals.