People of Canberra, I just wanted to give you a big pat on the back. I say this with tingles running up my spine, because we, as a community and as the capital of Australia, have done something extraordinary. For the second year in a row, the ACT Chief Minister’s Inclusion Awards has had a record number of people and organisations being nominated for these incredible awards.

Chief Minister Katy Gallagher and Gayana.

Is this something to celebrate, you ask?

Absolutely!

For someone like myself, who has a deliciously gorgeous (yes, I sometimes threaten to eat her because she’s just SO amazing) sister (Gayana) with Down Syndrome, this is a massive win. Those with family members with disabilities will probably join me in celebrating this momentous occasion too.

Gayana, a 15 year old girl with Down Syndrome.

The awards recognise individuals, organisations and businesses that are inclusive of people with a disability.

This means that 79 Canberra people, organisations and businesses are going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure those with disabilities are included, accepted and treated the way they should. It shows that our community is becoming increasingly aware of the need to be inclusive – and this is super exciting!

To be inclusive, accepting and welcoming to those with a disability seems like a no brainer. But in the busy daily grind that we all experience,

We’re so lucky in Canberra. The National Disability Insurance Scheme is rolling out, we have incredible Canberran’s like Ricky Stuart establishing a respite centre for children with special needs and we have a local government that’s doing its best to try support people with disabilities. We’re so incredibly lucky because building awareness of inclusivity starts from the ground up, and it seems like Canberra is well on the way!

Minister for Disability, Joy Burch couldn’t be prouder of Canberra’s inclusive efforts either.

“Earlier this year we saw the launch of the Boundless Canberra playground for children of all abilities, which had huge support from business, the construction industry, finance and the public service.

“I was also proud to support the launch of Enabled Employment which specialises in recruitment for people with disabilities,” said Minister Burch.

It’s initiatives like this that makes my heart skip a beat when I hear about them. I’ve been so privileged to meet people with disabilities from all walks of life. Some have become my closest friends, and I’ll be forever grateful for the incredible touch they add to my life.

I also applaud the ACT Government who establish and invest in initiatives like the Inclusion Awards to show their appreciation for those on the ground, doing their bit to make Canberra an inclusive place. It shows how keen they are to acknowledge leaders in inclusion and all those working towards promoting an inclusive community, and that’s just what makes Canberra so special – something that money will never be able to buy.

“While we will always look to develop new services and programs that enable people with disabilities to live a life to their potential, building a more inclusive community can only be achieved if everyone plays their part,” said Minister Burch.

I must admit, my sister’s business, GG’s Flowers – Canberra’s socially sustainable florist (read more about us here) was one of the 79 nominations for the awards evening.  When I found out about the nomination, my family and I jumped around squealing with pure happiness, pleasure and pride. No one will ever be able to imagine how much it means to her – for her confidence and self-esteem, for someone to acknowledge the young leader she has become. She’s lucky to have supportive family, friends and teachers (and a very loyal Facebook following!) to help her on her journey. She’s a girl (dressed in a lot of pink, with an infectious smile) on a mission to ensure there are endless opportunities for her and her friends in the future – and I couldn’t be prouder.

Gayana and Nip Wijewickrema.

The gala dinner, held on Thursday 11 December at Parliament House will be an occasion to celebrate all things inclusion. It’s also an opportunity for those with disabilities to have something to look forward to. I know my sister is hanging out for the weekend so that I’ll take her shopping – because after all, every special occasion requires a new dress!

More than 400 people are expected to attend the awards evening and I, for one simply cannot wait to be part of it. Tickets are still available and I can assure you, it’ll be a great night. If you’re interested in coming along to support the 79 nominations, hearing the incredible Stella Young who is a well known disability activist and comedian emcee the evening, or just to enjoy a fancy meal—make sure you purchase your tickets now. It’s going to be a wonderful evening full of celebration, respect and praise.

Stella Young

Whatever the outcome of the night, we can all be assured some well-deserving people will be the recipient of the awards. Even though we’re in the running, every 79 nominations deserve to win and I mean that sincerely. Each nomination ought to be congratulated for their gift to the Canberra community. And us, as loyal HerCanberra fans, can help join the massive congratulatory party. The best way to congratulate these organisations and businesses is to support them whenever possible. It might be as simple as using their services or spreading the word to your contacts. Either way, they deserve all the community support they can get, because after all – they’re the ones out and about in the community, supporting those with disabilities.

The essentials

What: ACT Chief Minister’s Inclusion Awards

Where: Parliament House

When: Thursday 11 December 2014

Tickets: Purchase your ticket through www.actinclusion.com.au or contact BDW Special Events on 6195 0831.