The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is pleased to announce the three recipients of the 2026 Accessibility Impact Awards. This event is an opportunity for the Government of the Northwest Territories, the NWT Disabilities Council, and the NWT Human Rights Commission to recognize and celebrate the outstanding people and businesses advancing accessibility and inclusion of persons with disabilities in the territory. By promoting community accessibility and social inclusion, the winners of these awards enable persons with disabilities to engage with their neighbors and community to achieve more fulfilling lives.

This year’s recipients are:

GNWT Accessibility and Inclusion Award:

Cathy Nerysoo: A resident of Fort McPherson, Cathy is a dedicated educator noted for her exceptional professional skills and commitment. Her approach to students with disabilities, particularly those with Autism, is remarkable. Cathy is a guide and advocate, who communicates with students in ways that honor their individuality. She ensures that students’ voices are present, even when they may not always be heard verbally. She is patient, intuitive and responsive. Cathy goes above and beyond and when necessary, seeks out new ways to support her students’ development and well-being. Cathy’s commitment to her students with disabilities has made a profound impact on her community.

We thank Cathy Nerysoo for her leadership, her advocacy, and for her contribution to making the Northwest Territories a more accessible and inclusive territory for all.

The NWT Disabilities Council Judith A. Sharp Memorial Community Champion Award:

Taylor Paddon: Taylor is a 14 year-old dancer and Leader in Training with Bella Dance Academy. Taylor embodies the values of inclusion and accessibility. She truly wants every dancer to experience the joy of movement and the thrill of the big stage in their own way. Without specific training or instruction from adults, Taylor practices neuro-affirming ways of instruction and guidance, and has since she was very young.

Taylor has continued to develop her skills and understanding regarding the inclusion of students of all skills and abilities in her classes. Many parents at the studio talk about how much their little children love dancing with Miss Taylor as their Leader in Training, or how their older children look up to Taylor.

Taylor has asked for training opportunities and other ways that she can further develop her skills in supporting neurodiverse students. Her ability to truly meet kids where they are is that of someone well beyond her young age. Taylor embodies the spirit of the Judy Sharp Community Champion Award.

The Human Rights Commission Accessibility Award:

Lutsel’ Ke Cooperative: The Lutsel’ Ke Cooperative’s new store is a wonderful example of accessible design for communities across the Territory. The Coop’s new building includes ramp access, automatic door openers, wider aisles, essential products at accessible height for all patrons, ergonomic chairs at every till to assist staff with mobility challenges, at home-grocery delivery services, quiet-shopping hours and offers transportation services for community members free-of-charge.

The Commission is thrilled to recognize the consideration and effort Lutsel’ Ke Coope has put into the physical design of its new building and into making their services more inclusive.

This year’s awards ceremony was held on May 22, 2026, as a part of National AccessAbility Week in Canada. The ceremony provided an opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of outstanding persons and businesses committed to advancing accessibility and inclusion in the territory.

For media requests, please contact:
Andrew Wind
Manager, Communications
Health and Social Services
Government of the Northwest Territories
HSSMedia@gov.nt.ca