In this comprehensive webinar, we will explore the multifaceted experiences of individuals within BIPOC communities who live with disabilities, focusing on the intersection of race, gender, and disability in the employment process. As an employment specialist or job developer, understanding the complex ways in which these identities intersect is key to providing effective support and advocacy.

The webinar will also provide actionable insights into identifying and addressing implicit biases and structural barriers that may impact the hiring process for individuals with disabilities from BIPOC communities. You will leave this session equipped with the knowledge and tools to advocate for inclusive, equitable hiring practices, foster cultural competency, and ultimately, create workplaces where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive.

Irene Cordero is a Costa Rican-Canadian entrepreneur, clinical counsellor, international speaker, human resources professional with over 20 years of international experience, ally for BIPOC and Latinx groups, the LGBTQ+2 community and the founder and CEO of Brave Sinergy. Her diverse background has allowed her to understand the value of creating, respecting and building inclusive spaces for everyone.  She believes that there is no diversity without disability.

Irene holds a master’s degree in clinical group psychology and recently graduated with her second master’s degree in counseling from the City University of Seattle in Canada. In 2022, she obtained an Inclusion and Diversity certification from Cornell University.

Irene is a woman with a disability (deaf—hard of hearing). Advocating and being an ally for disability justice has allowed her to find fulfillment in her life. Irene believes, “People are Whole, and we all have something good to give the world.”

She lives with her partner, Michel, and her two dogs on Vancouver Island, Canada.  She enjoys being out in nature, meditation, and cooking.

This presentation explores the four foundational elements of community inclusion: individualized, integrated, local, and the ability to contribute and develop meaningful relationships. Understanding these principles is key to building truly inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to participate, grow, and thrive.

Participants will gain insight into:

Individualized Inclusion: Recognizing and honoring each person’s unique needs, preferences, and strengths, and how personalized approaches can lead to greater empowerment and participation.

Integrated Inclusion: Creating environments where individuals are actively included in all aspects of community life, from social activities to decision-making processes.

Local Inclusion: Building inclusive spaces that are rooted in and connected to the local community, ensuring that everyone has access to local resources, opportunities, and social networks.

Contributing & Developing Meaningful Relationships: Understanding the importance of contributing to the community in meaningful ways and creating relationships that promote personal growth, social connectedness, and a sense of belonging.

Through collaborative discussion and real-world examples, this session will equip attendees with practical tools and strategies to promote each element of inclusion, ultimately leading to stronger, more supportive communities.

Aliah Waterman is dedicated to fostering inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to grow and contribute. As the overseer of Community Inclusion and Individualized Employment Services at Innovative Services NW, Aliah has a passion for supporting individuals in finding meaningful work and building strong community connections.

Aliah’s journey to this role was shaped by personal challenges and a deep desire to make a positive impact. After starting in education and facing adversity in that field, she transitioned into social work and found her true calling. Her experience as a job coach and community inclusion coach has allowed her to see firsthand the transformative power of inclusion.

Aliah holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and will soon receive her Master’s in Social Impact with a focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Her work is guided by the belief that every person deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.

Aliah’s approach is grounded in kindness, patience, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed. She is proud to contribute to a field that empowers individuals to live fulfilling, connected lives and believes that, through inclusion, we can all learn and grow together.