Issue 12: Emilee -Co-Founder of Tru Faces

Stereotypes are often misrepresentations of the REALity. Disabilities are amongst the most popular populations who are misunderstood and are constantly being labelled by society. For this 19-year-old Early Childhood Education Student and Co-Founder of ‘Tru Faces’ her REAL WHY is advocating and raising awareness for the disability community.

Emilee was born with a Genetic Condition referred to as Cone Dystrophy. A disorder which causes significant vision loss and light sensitivity. Emilee has about 10% remaining vision and cannot see distance or colour. However, her condition does not stop her from thriving.

As a tandem cyclist for Team Ontario, a Board Member of the Mohawk College Students Association, and placed Top 5 at the Grateful Givers Pageant; she is determined to show the world that living with a visual impairment does not stop you from achieving great success.

This REAL Resilient is on a journey to advocate and raise awareness for the Blind/Visually Impaired Community. Through her participation as a CNIB Ambassador, a non-profit aiming to change what it means to be blind, and as a Member of the National Youth Council; Emilee aims to change stereotypes and perceptions.

Growing up as visually impaired, Emilee experienced bullying; from teachers denying accommodations to being name called for simply being different. From her personal experiences, she was inspired to create awareness for her community through educating others about the issues that the blind/low vision community encounter.

Therefore, in November 2018, herself and her sister created a social media campaign called ‘Tru Faces’. ‘Tru Faces’ is an online community for individuals with disabilities, where they can share their stories, educate about various disabilities, and connect others with similar challenges. They aim to create awareness on Disability-related issues as well as establish an inclusive environment for everyone. Through this initiative, Emilee has been able to connect with a variety of amazing individuals, which inspire her every day.

Looking for ways to support Emilee and ‘True Faces’? Go visit her Instagram @emilees_11 and @trufaces

Remember to always Be YOU! Be REAL! Be RESILIENT!