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Angela Martin – Emcee
Angela is an Advisory UX Designer at Lenovo, co-founder of Design Storming LLC, and a certified Humane Technologist focused on inclusive, human-centered design. She leads Lenovo’s disability advocacy ERG and was recognized as a Future CX Leader by Reuters for designing experiences that reach millions globally. A passionate mentor and community advocate, Angela has earned multiple awards for her professional and volunteer contributions.
Sandra Painter – ComMotion
As a young adult, Sandra Painter learned to enjoy dance through participating in a community based African Caribbean dance company for almost 10 years and found it therapeutic and fun. Now she enjoys sharing the gift of music and dance through her work with ComMotion. She also works as a clinical social worker at a mental health practice in Durham.
Rebecca Simmons - Comedian
Rebecca (she/her) is a multiply disabled twenty-something. She describes her comedy style as ideally making you laugh while also making a point. Off stage, you can catch her volunteering with harm reduction groups, advocating for accessibility, and biting her nails.
Em Kibler – Poet
Em Kibler is a disabled poet, writer, and multidisciplinary artist based in Durham, NC, whose work is rooted in the spirit of advocacy and the power of authentic storytelling. Drawing inspiration from lived experience, Em offers a portal into the unique ways they engage with the world through their creative practice.
Chris Hendricks – Musician
Chris Hendricks goes wherever his music will take him. He has been a successful singer, songwriter, speaker, and advocate for 20 years. The NC native lives in Hillsborough NC with his wife Heather and his daughter Fern. Check out www.iamchrishendricks.com for more information.
Daisy Wooten – American Sign Language Storyteller
Daisy Wooten has been a Deaf Service Specialist with the NC DHHS Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing for 20 years; she works in the Wilmington Regional Center. Daisy enjoys reading, watching movies, and spending her time with her children and grandchildren. Travelling overseas is on her bucket list!
Aaroosh Shende - Musician
A high school Senior who is a natural leader and has excellent problem-solving skills. Is proficient in utilizing Google Suite and Microsoft Office software. I have excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Eager to make a career in STEM geared towards Bioprocessing and Business Analytics and Administration.
Carolyn Covington - Author
Carolyn Marshall Covington, founder of the non-profit, Insightful Visionaries, champions accessibility, independence, and opportunities for the blind and visually impaired. As an author, Carolyn shares her incredible journey of resilience, using her voice to inspire, educate, and advocate for inclusivity. Her story is one of overcoming obstacles, embracing change, and turning adversity into purpose. She is also a member of the Raleigh Mayor’s Committee for Persons with disabilities.