National Disability Advisory Council
Advancing accessibility, disability inclusion, and equitable opportunities across Canada through youth leadership, advocacy, and education.
About the Council
The National Disability Advisory Council is a youth-led initiative founded by Yasmin Atwal
dedicated to advancing accessibility, disability inclusion, and equitable opportunities for
individuals with disabilities across Canada. The Council brings together youth leaders, educators, advocates, professionals, individuals with lived experience, and community allies to advise on accessibility initiatives, promote inclusive policies, and amplify the voices of persons with disabilities.
The Council was established to support the development and implementation of the National
Disability Inclusion Toolkit, a comprehensive educational and accessibility resource designed to help schools, organizations, and communities create more inclusive environments. Through collaboration, advocacy, and education, the Council works to remove barriers and encourage
meaningful participation for individuals of all abilities.
Mission
To promote accessibility, inclusion, equity, and disability awareness by empowering youth
voices, supporting inclusive leadership, and creating practical solutions that foster equal
opportunities in education, leadership, STEM, sports, and community life.
Vision
We envision a culture where accessibility and inclusion are embedded in every school,
workplace, organization, and community, ensuring all individuals can fully participate and thrive regardless of ability.
Goals
Provide recommendations and feedback on accessibility initiatives and educational resources
Support the implementation of the National Disability Inclusion Toolkit in schools and
organizations.
Encourage inclusive leadership and youth advocacy opportunities.
Advance accessibility within STEM, education, sports, and community programming
Foster collaboration between educators, disability advocates, policymakers, and youth
leaders.
Create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to share lived experiences and influence meaningful change
Areas of Focus
- Accessibility in Education
Promoting inclusive classrooms, equitable accommodations, and accessible learning
environments, and disability-inclusive school policies. - Disability Inclusion in STEM
Encouraging greater accessibility and participation for students with disabilities in STEM
education, mentorship, leadership, and career pathways. - Youth Leadership and Advocacy
Empowering youth to become leaders and advocates for accessibility, inclusion, and social
change within their communities. - Inclusive Policies and Resources
Developing educational resources, accessibility recommendations, workshops, and training
opportunities to support organizations and schools. - .Community Engagement
Building partnerships with schools, nonprofits, accessibility advocates, and healthcare
professionals, and community organizations to create lasting impact.
Why This Council Matters
Despite increasing awareness surrounding accessibility, many individuals with disabilities continue to experience barriers within education, leadership opportunities, employment, public spaces, and community participation. The National Disability Advisory Council was created to ensure that disability inclusion is not simply discussed but actively implemented through education, collaboration, and meaningful action.
The Council recognizes that accessibility must include diverse perspectives and intersectional experiences. By centering lived experience and youth leadership, the Council aims to help shape more inclusive schools, workplaces, and communities for future generations.
National Disability Advisory Council Members
Yasmin Atwal
Founder & Youth Accessibility Advocate
Yasmin Atwal is the Founder of the National Disability Advisory Council and the creator of the National Disability Inclusion Toolkit, a comprehensive initiative focused on advancing accessibility, disability inclusion, and equitable opportunities in education and leadership. Yasmin is a passionate youth advocate and UN speaker committed to empowering individuals with disabilities through education, policy awareness, and inclusive leadership initiatives. Her
work focuses on accessibility in schools, disability-inclusive STEM programming, youth leadership, and social justice. Through research, advocacy, and collaboration with educators, disability advocates, and community leaders, Yasmin continues to champion meaningful change and create more inclusive communities across Canada.
Warren Falkenstein
(“Warrior Warren”)
Disability Advocate & Motivational Speaker
Warren Falkenstein, also known as “Warrior Warren,” was dependent on a wheelchair for mobility issues since the age of 3 due to an undiagnosed disease, and he was told there was not much hope for a long life. His life has been complicated by physical pain and medical complications. He has since regained some mobility. He is a disability advocate, motivational speaker, and inspirational leader who uses his lived experiences to promote resilience, accessibility, and inclusion. Through public speaking and advocacy, Warren inspires individuals and communities to challenge barriers, embrace diversity, and foster greater understanding surrounding disability inclusion.
Ms. N. Amin
Special Education Teacher & Accessibility Advocate
N. Amin is a TDSB special education teacher with over 25 years of experience supporting students with diverse learning and accessibility needs. Throughout her career, she has worked closely with students, families, and educators to promote inclusive education, equitable learning opportunities, and student success. Neelofar brings extensive knowledge of accessibility challenges within school systems and is deeply committed to helping create supportive and inclusive educational environments. She provides valuable educational insight and guidance to help strengthen accessibility initiatives and resources for schools and communities.
Dylan Nagra
Youth Leader & Co-Founder of Beyond Boundaries Soccer
Dylan Nagra is a youth leader, athlete, and co-founder of Beyond Boundaries Soccer, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing inclusive and accessible soccer opportunities for individuals with special needs. Through his leadership and volunteer work, Dylan has helped create welcoming environments where all individuals can participate in sports regardless of ability. He is passionate about inclusion, mentorship, and empowering youth through athletics and community engagement. Dylan’s dedication to accessibility and inclusive programming supports the Council’s mission of ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals.
Mick Nagra
Special Olympics Volunteer & Youth Advocate
Mick Nagra is a dedicated youth volunteer and advocate who actively supports individuals with disabilities through his involvement with the Special Olympics and inclusive community initiatives. He is passionate about promoting inclusion, teamwork, and equal opportunities within sports and youth programming. Mick believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to participate, succeed, and feel valued within their community. Through his volunteerism and advocacy, he continues to inspire greater awareness and acceptance of disability inclusion while helping create more accessible and supportive environments for all.