At DIVERSEcity’s 2025 AGM and Awards of Impact, a new and meaningful category was introduced: the Diverse Abilities Award, created to honour individuals who are creating inclusive communities and championing access for people with diverse abilities. This award was sponsored by Open Door Group, who we are deeply grateful to for coming on board as the corporate sponsor — with their belief that everyone who wants to work should have the opportunity to do so — which aligns powerfully with the spirit of this award.
This award reflects DIVERSEcity’s ongoing commitment to developing accessible, inclusive programing and environments — including through the DIVERSEcity Skills Training Centre.
The idea for this award originated with long-time partners Katie and Geoff Crocker, whose personal sponsorship helped make it possible.
The inaugural recipient of this award is Akshay Sachdeva, a self-advocate and community leader whose lived experience and voice are helping to build more accessible and equitable spaces. In his role on the Board of Directors for Community Living BC, Akshay has worked to shape systems, inform policy and raise awareness so that people of all abilities can succeed and belong.
DIVERSEcity is proud to celebrate Akshay’s leadership, commitment and contributions. His recognition as this year’s Diverse Abilities Award winner highlights the importance of access, representation and community change.
Learn more about all the 2025 DIVERSEcity Awards of Impact recipients here.