Incorporating Accessibility for Persons who are Blind/Low Vision
Webinar event date: 
May 14, 2025 1:00 pm EDT
Webinar Presenters: 
Bernard Akuoko, MSW

Ben Akuoko is a Registered Social Worker with over a decade of experience in the field. He is a passionate advocate for the intersection of race, culture, and disability, using public speaking, consulting, and media engagement to drive meaningful conversations and systemic change.

Ben holds a Social Service Worker diploma from Sheridan College, a Bachelor of Social Work from Laurentian University, and a Master of Social Work from the University of Waterloo. As a proud Black man of Ghanaian descent living with Retinitis Pigmentosa, he draws on his personal, professional, and academic experiences to amplify underrepresented voices and empower marginalized communities.

Currently, Ben serves on the Council of Canadians with Disabilities, is a member of the National Disability Initiative Working Group for the Slate Foundation, and is an original member of CNIB’s Black Voices United. He actively participates in coalitions dedicated to raising awareness around race and disability. His expertise has led him to deliver guest lectures on race, disability, and accessibility at Fanshawe College, York University, and Toronto Metropolitan University. He has also been a featured panelist for organizations such as The Centre for Independent Living Toronto (CILT) and the ASE Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities.

David Greenidge

David Greenidge is a skilled specialist in accessible technology, renowned for his ability to deliver innovative solutions that empower Canadians living with sight loss. As one of the driving forces behind CNIB Access Labs, he spearheads the design and management of tailored accessibility projects, ensuring their success and lasting impact.

An unwavering advocate for accessibility and inclusion, David is deeply committed to the mission of CNIB Access Labs and the broader vision of CNIB to create meaningful community change. He consistently seeks out initiatives that enhance accessibility and foster greater inclusivity for Canadians with disabilities.

Description

Join us for an insightful webinar that examines the field of Social Work through the lens of disability—specifically, Blindness and Low Vision. This session will explore ways to create a more inclusive profession, from delivering and accessing supports and services to fostering accessibility and inclusion within Social Work employment and academic spaces.

Registered Social Worker and Master of Social Work graduate Ben Akuoko will share his journey navigating the Social Work field academically and professionally. He will deconstruct key theories and considerations for working with Blind and Low Vision individuals. David Greenidge from the CNIB Access Lab will highlight essential technologies that can support the success of Blind and Low Vision professionals in the digital environment as well as Social Work space.

Through this workshop, attendees will gain a fresh perspective on how to break down barriers and ensure that Blind and Low Vision individuals are fully included in the important work of Social Work.

Webinar Key Objectives:

  • Inclusive Practice for Blind/Low Vision persons accessing Social Work services
  • Reviewing Barriers of Employment for Persons who are Blind/Low Vision in the Social Work field
  • Consideration for Persons who are Blind/Low Vision in the Social Work Program
  • Considering Digital accessibility within academics and the workplace
  • Looking at the built environment within the workplace
  • Why it is important to consider this in the helping field of social work

Don't miss this opportunity to learn, reflect, and take action toward a more accessible and equitable profession.