The City of Calgary’s Advisory Committee on Accessibility announced the 2024 Accessibility Awards winners today, December 17, 2024. The annual awards recognize individuals and groups who are advancing accessibility in Calgary and making life better for everyone. During today’s meeting of Council, Mayor Jyoti Gondek presented the Advocacy Award for an Individual to Lionel Migrino, the Advocacy Award for an Organization to Lacrossing Barriers, the Transportation & Mobility Award to Skye Luk, and the Universal Design Award to Pamela Butvin.
“We remain committed to our shared goal of a city that all Calgarians can access and contribute to,” shared Mayor Gondek. “On behalf of City Council, congratulations to the four award winners and everyone that was nominated for an award. Your work to make Calgary inclusive is commendable.”
Advocacy Award
The Advocacy Award recognizes individuals and groups advancing accessibility and making life better for all Calgarians. Lionel Migrino and Lacrossing Barriers are equally deserving of this year’s Advocacy Award. Lionel is dedicated to raising awareness and driving change in accessibility, diversity, inclusivity, equity, and justice. As a Filipinx-Canadian with cerebral palsy, he uses his experiences to advocate for the disability community, ensuring their voices are heard and their stories are told. His recent gallery, “Limitless: The Disabled World,” exemplifies his commitment to breaking down societal barriers and highlighting the resilience and potential of people with disabilities. Through his photography, Lionel challenges perceptions and inspires others to recognize the limitless potential within the disability community. His advocacy goes beyond personal gain; he strives to create a more inclusive world for everyone. His passion, talent, and relentless efforts make him a deserving candidate for the Advocacy Award.
Lacrossing Barriers has created an inclusive environment where people of all abilities can participate in various sports, including lacrosse, boxing, and gymnastics, ensuring everyone feels accepted and encouraged. The organization has significantly impacted marginalized communities by providing opportunities for physical activity, skill development, and social interaction, leading to increased confidence and a sense of belonging among participants. Over 10 participants have earned coaching credentials, empowering them to give back to the community and help others experience the same sense of acceptance and inclusion.
Transportation & Mobility Award
The Transportation & Mobility Award honours individuals or groups dedicated to enhancing how Calgarians navigate the city. Skye Luk has been instrumental in securing vital resources, such as the all-terrain Hippocampe wheelchair, significantly enhancing the mobility and independence of children and families. His work with CP Kids & Families and the Calgary Neuropathy Association underscores his dedication to improving the lives of those with disabilities. Skye’s leadership extends beyond individual projects; he has successfully united organizations, donors, and communities through initiatives like Walk & Roll Alberta, fostering a culture of inclusion and teamwork. His collaborative approach has inspired others to support accessibility, creating a ripple effect. Skye’s dedication to enhancing transportation and mobility options for individuals with disabilities is exceptional, and his involvement in projects that promote active and inclusive transportation options demonstrates his commitment to creating a more accessible community.
Universal Design Award
The Universal Design Award celebrates individuals or groups who’ve made strides in improving access for people with disabilities in Calgary. This year’s Universal Design Award winner, Pamela Butvin has 30 years of experience in architecture and holds a deep understanding of designing accessible and inclusive spaces across various sectors, including healthcare, senior care, and commercial buildings. As a certified Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC) professional and a LEED Accredited Professional, her commitment to accessibility and sustainability in design is evident. Pamela’s designs support accessible aging in place with manageable layouts and low-maintenance features, promoting inclusivity and community stability. Her work on the Universal Design Toolkit and her presentations at conferences and universities spread awareness and knowledge about accessible design, influencing a wide audience of professionals and students.
The Advisory Committee on Accessibility’s annual awards program started in 2006. The committee is a City Council committee consisting of citizens with disabilities and a keen interest in access issues. Working closely with the community and The City of Calgary, the committee makes recommendations to City Council on policy and systems issues, and barriers impacting people with disabilities in Calgary. For more details on the awards, visit Calgary.ca/accessibilityawards, and for more on the winners and their work, visit calgary.ca/ACAawardswinners.
