August 25 – Dr. Shelley Moore
Reducing Barriers and Increasing Access to All Learners

In this session, Shelley will share stories that illustrate a key mindset shift in understanding inclusive practice. We will look at different kinds of support models that balance what’s effective and what’s efficient in meeting the needs of all students.

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Dr. Shelley Moore

Based in British Columbia, Canada, Dr. Shelley Moore is a highly sought-after inclusive education researcher, teacher, consultant and storyteller. She has worked with school districts and community organizations around the world. Her research explores how to support teachers to design for all learners in grade level academic classrooms that include students with intellectual disabilities using strength based and responsive approaches. Shelley completed her undergraduate degree in Special Education at the University of Alberta, her Masters at Simon Fraser University, and her Ph.D. at the University of British Columbia.

August 26 – Karla Verschoor
The History of Community Living BC

Explore the troubling history of institutions in our province and the lasting effects on the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

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Karla Verschoor

Karla brings a rights-based, person-centred approach to her leadership at Inclusion BC. She joined in 2006, holding various positions before becoming the Executive Director in 2018. She strives to be a connection point between people experiencing barriers to inclusion and those with decision-making power within our systems of support. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree (University of Alberta) and Certificate in Dialogue and Civic Engagement (Simon Fraser University)..

August 27 – Doug Tennant
The Possibilities are Endless

Join us for an inspiring and empowering virtual keynote, led by three dynamic self-advocates who are shaping the future through leadership, advocacy, and community change. In this one-hour session, Lauren, Krista, and Jeevan will share their journeys, passion, and vision for a more inclusive world where everyone has access to the same opportunities—regardless of disability.

The keynote will highlight the limitless possibilities in areas such as affordable housing, post-secondary education, and employment, showcasing how self-advocates are leading the charge to break down barriers and create meaningful opportunities for all. These leaders will discuss their work and personal experiences, illustrating how inclusive environments benefit everyone, not just those with disabilities. Together, they will demonstrate how advocacy, self-determination, and community engagement can lead to transformative change, proving that the possibilities are indeed endless when we come together to create a more inclusive society.

Be ready to be inspired by their stories and the vision of a future where leadership, voice, and participation in all aspects of life are accessible to everyone.

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Doug Tennant

Doug Tennant is the Chief Executive Officer of UNITI, a partnership of three not-for-profit organizations that build healthy and inclusive communities through advocacy, services, and housing. He is a strong believer that creativity develops spaces where people of different abilities can thrive together and has a Master of Education with a focus on innovation in the arts.

Doug has been actively involved in the Community Living movement for the past 33 years as a parent, a worker, and a volunteer. An expert in governance, he provides annual training to provincial boards and has served as the board chair of both the Surrey Board of Trade and the BC CEO Network. He is currently serving on the board of the Canadian Business Disability Inclusion Network.