Closing Keynote Panel – Closing the Gaps: Transitions Through Life Stages

We all experience transitions as we go through the different…

Speakers

We all experience transitions as we go through the different stages of life. For children, youth and adults with disabilities, these transitions can be complicated given the various systems in place that impact access to services. In this panel we will invite guest speakers to share their experiences and expertise navigating the different stages of life. We will identify opportunities to help ensure smooth transitions and success no matter what stage of life you, or the person you are supporting are in!

Panelists: 

Mike Goldberg has served as the Executive Director of Shalom Residences since 2022. Mike brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as Community Outreach and Education Coordinator for Palliative Manitoba. His educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Gerontology, specializing in palliative care social work. Mike’s leadership is grounded in a passion for community-focused support and compassionate care.

Leanne Fenez has worked for and with people with disabilities in Manitoba for 38 years. She served as the Director of the Community Residential Program at St.Amant for 25 years, and is currently working at Abilities Manitoba. In 2018, Leanne work to develop a Quality Framework for services offered to adults with intellectual disabilities throughout the Province. Leanne is on several boards, including the Steering Committee of Barrier-Free Manitoba.

Jessica Kowalson is a 31 year old woman who has lived through many transitions, including moving from her parent’s home to St Amant Centre at age 12, and then to one of St Amant’s Community homes at 23. Jessica is a proud member of the St.Amant Foundation Board, where she is able to use her life experiences and personal knowledge to give her fellow board members a unique perspective while they work towards improving the lives of those supported by St Amant.

Carla Fleming is a mother of 5 sons and a daughter, Rebecca, who is a beautiful, talented, compassionate, scholarship award-winning 21-year-old, who happens to have Down Syndrome. She proudly advocates for them all.

 

Moderators:

Heidi Hutchison, Disability Self-Advocate, works at the University of Manitoba, and volunteers with People First of Winnipeg.

Stevie Goller, Board chair of the Alliance of Direct Support Professionals of Manitoba and Case Manager at New Directions.

Schedule