Carly Bryden – Disability Employment Awareness Month Spotlight

Meet Carly Bryden from Aurora! Carly is a dedicated athlete, competing in swimming and rhythmic gymnastics, with a background in basketball, soccer, baseball, and bocce. This past spring, Carly participated in the Provincial Spring Games for rhythmic gymnastics, winning a gold, silver, and two bronze medals! She had a blast staying in university dorms with fellow athletes. Carly has also competed in many swim meets and the OFSAA high school championships, proudly displaying over 50 ribbons and medals in her room!  

When she’s not competing, Carly has been working at Sobeys for 6 years, where she manages merchandising and quality checks, including checking expiry dates on products (especially chocolate bars and candy, her favourite!). Through her role, Carly has developed skills in time management, attention to detail, and teamwork, proving herself to be a valuable part of the team. 

Carly believes Disability Employment Awareness Month is important because it shows that people with disabilities are capable and want to contribute to society. She emphasizes that with patience and training, people with disabilities can become hardworking, dedicated employees, helping businesses succeed.  

Are you a Special Olympics athlete with a job? Complete our form for a chance to get featured! https://www1.specialolympicsontario.com/disability-employment-awareness-month-special-olympics-athlete-spotlight/ 

October is Disability Employment Awareness Month – an annual reminder of the pressing need for equal employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. It is a time to recognize and celebrate the unique talents and contributions that individuals with diverse abilities bring to the workforce. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and promoting workplace diversity, Disability Employment Awareness Month encourages not only economic empowerment but also societal transformation, where individuals of all backgrounds are treated with respect, dignity and given the chance to contribute their skills and talents. It serves as a catalyst for change, driving home the message that inclusivity in the workplace is not only a matter of equality but a cornerstone of progress and collective success.