About

Society often puts labels on people with disabilities, which in turn naturally limits their ability. We come together to exchange ideas, expertise, and knowledge with a goal to enhance the quality and accessibility of services for people with additional support needs.

We push beyond the limits of the possible into the impossible. It is here where we truly create a community of inclusivity, amplifying the voices of the people we serve.

After 28 years, the Canadian Conference on Developmental Disabilities & Autism has a new name and look that reflects the significance of the event. We’re pleased to share our new name is Beyond Limits: Canada’s Conference for Diversity and Accessibility.

This name expresses the boundless potential and ambition of the people our sector supports across Canada. 

We’ll see you again at the conference in October 2023. Watch for updates about our upcoming virtual events throughout the year.

With a focus on practical tools, behaviour, research, technology, ethics, and best-practice, Beyond Limits will leave you with practical strategies and information to allow professionals, para-professionals and decision makers to better support the people they serve.

all conference attendees sitting around round tables listening to the first presenter in a large room at the Victoria Inn
two attendees sitting around round table looking at the camera smiling
three individuals petting three therapy dogs in the Chill Room at the conference
7 panelists discussing various topics. Sitting on chairs on a stage in front of the crowd
an individual writing on a poster sharing thoughts on what makes them most grateful

Committee

Melanie Forbes (Co-Chair)
Manager, Corporate Education, St.Amant

April Plett
Administrative Assistant, Autism Programs, St.Amant

Brendan Boehr
Coordinator, Clinical Education and Training, St.Amant

Brent Epp
Consultant, Student Services Unit, Government of Manitoba

Bryan Lotocki (Co-Chair)
Coordinator, Community Residential Program, St.Amant

Erin Thompson
Coordinator, Community Residential Program
St.Amant

Liezel Giesbrecht
Nurse Consultant, Community Nursing Services, St.Amant

Susanne Marius
Principal, St.Amant School

Kellie Lambert
Training & Development Facilitator, Corporate Education, St.Amant

Kevin Myers
Coordinator, Community Residential Program, St.Amant

Lindsay McCombe
Coordinator, St.Amant Research Centre

Michelle Everton
Senior Manager, Corporate Services

Rochelle Tabinga
Team Leader, Community Residential Program, St.Amant

The Committee is also grateful for the support and expertise of its advisors
and ad hoc members. If you’re interested in joining the committee as an external member, please contact us for more information!

Committee Resources