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2026 Accessibility Awards Winners

The City of Calgary’s Advisory Committee on Accessibility announced the 2026 Accessibility Awards winners during the Regular Meeting of Council on May 26, 2026. The awards recognize individuals and groups who are helping persons with disabilities in Calgary live a good life by making Calgary more accessible.

The Organizational Advocacy Award: Open Door Group

Mayor Jeromy Farkas (centre) presents the Organizational Advocacy Award to Open Door Group, accepted by Cayley Muir, Alona Puehse, Bree Reid, Courtney Kurucz (left to right).

Open Door Group advances accessibility in Calgary by creating inclusive pathways to employment for individuals with disabilities, including visible, invisible, episodic and mental health-related disabilities. Through individualized, person-centred employment supports, the organization removes systemic barriers and helps people build sustainable careers. Open Door Group also works directly with employers to promote inclusive hiring practices, workplace accommodations and psychologically safe environments. Their long-term, collaborative approach supports positive outcomes for both individuals and workplaces, strengthening accessibility and inclusion across Calgary’s employment landscape.

The Individual Advocacy Award: Rema Kadri

Mayor Farkas (left) presents the Individual Advocacy Award to Rema Kadri.

Rema Kadri owns, manages and operates Rema’s Place, a unisex, classic hair stylist salon. Rema has made a lasting impact on accessibility in Calgary through her deeply personal, community-based approach. She removes barriers by offering wheelchair-accessible service, flexible hours, affordable pricing and in-home or hospital visits for clients who cannot travel. Rema supports individuals with disabilities, seniors and people with limited incomes by meeting them with dignity, patience and care. Her work has a profound personal impact, helping people feel confident, valued and included. Rema’s commitment demonstrates how everyday acts of accessibility can significantly improve quality of life.

The Mobility & Transportation Access Award: MediDonate Life Improvement Initiative Ltd.

Mayor Farkas (left) presents the Mobility & Transportation Access Award to x MediDonate Life Improvement Initiative Ltd., accepted by Ekansh Gupta.

MediDonate Life Improvement Initiative Ltd. has improved mobility and independence for Calgarians by increasing access to essential assistive and medical equipment. This student-led nonprofit initiative redistributes donated mobility supports such as wheelchairs, walkers and hospital beds to individuals who cannot afford them. By connecting donors with community members in need, MediDonate removes financial barriers and ensures equipment is reused rather than left unused or discarded. Through collaboration, innovation and a strong community focus, MediDonate demonstrates how grassroots solutions can meaningfully enhance mobility and access across the city.